We're an affiliate We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through the links on our site. As an Amazon affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Dog Excessively Itching Ear (Here’s Why)

By Patricia Williams
Last updated: September 26, 2025

Dogs scratching their ears occasionally is normal, but when a dog is excessively itching its ear, it often points to an underlying problem.

This behavior can signal anything from ear infections to parasites, allergies, or even foreign objects stuck inside the ear canal.

We outline the common causes of excessive ear itching in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.

Table of Contents

Dog Excessively Itching Ear — Why It Happens

A dog excessively itching its ear usually indicates irritation, infection, or discomfort inside the ear canal. Ear mites, yeast infections, bacterial infections, or allergic reactions are frequent culprits, and sometimes foreign material like grass seeds can also cause irritation.

While mild scratching may not seem urgent, constant ear itching can lead to pain, inflammation, and even ear damage if left untreated.

Dog Excessively Itching Ear: Common Causes

Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons for a dog excessively itching its ear.

Bacteria and yeast thrive in the warm, moist environment of the ear canal, especially in dogs with floppy ears.

You may notice redness, swelling, or a foul odor alongside the scratching. Left untreated, infections can worsen, leading to chronic ear problems and significant pain.

Ear Mites

Tiny parasites known as ear mites can make a dog’s ears intensely itchy. They cause irritation by feeding on ear wax and skin oils, leading to excessive scratching and head shaking.

You may see dark, coffee-ground-like debris inside the ears. While more common in puppies, ear mites can affect dogs of any age and are highly uncomfortable if not addressed quickly.

Allergies

Allergic reactions to food, pollen, dust, or household products can trigger ear itching in dogs.

Allergies often cause inflammation in the skin and ears, leading to chronic irritation. If your dog has seasonal allergies, you may notice increased scratching during certain times of year.

Food sensitivities, on the other hand, may cause persistent itching regardless of the season.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes a dog may excessively itch its ear because something is lodged inside. Grass seeds, small twigs, or dirt can all get stuck, causing irritation.

Dogs may shake their heads vigorously and paw at their ears in addition to scratching.

This type of discomfort often comes on suddenly and can escalate quickly if the object causes damage inside the ear canal.

Trauma or Irritation

Frequent swimming, grooming products, or even rough play can irritate a dog’s ears.

Excess moisture from swimming or baths may lead to a condition called “swimmer’s ear,” where bacteria multiply rapidly in the damp ear canal.

Harsh chemicals from shampoos or sprays can also inflame sensitive ear tissue, leading to itching and scratching.

Ear Hematomas

Excessive scratching or head shaking can sometimes result in an ear hematoma, where blood pools between the ear’s skin and cartilage.

While hematomas are usually secondary to another problem like infection or mites, they cause noticeable swelling and discomfort.

A dog with a hematoma will often continue to itch and shake, worsening the issue without treatment.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Excessively Itching Its Ear

If your dog is excessively itching its ear, start by gently inspecting the ear for visible debris, redness, or discharge. Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal, as this can cause injury.

Keeping your dog’s ears clean with a vet-approved ear solution can help prevent mild irritations from turning into infections.

Provide your dog with a calm, clean environment, especially if allergies are suspected. Washing bedding regularly and minimizing exposure to dust or pollen may help reduce irritation.

For food-related allergies, your veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint triggers.

If ear mites or infection are suspected, prompt veterinary treatment is essential. Home remedies or over-the-counter treatments are rarely effective against mites or severe infections.

Your vet may prescribe medicated drops or oral medication to clear the issue and provide lasting relief.

For dogs prone to ear problems, regular ear checks and cleaning can go a long way toward preventing recurrence. Work with your vet to determine the best ear care routine for your dog’s breed and lifestyle.

When to Call or Visit Your Vet

You should call your vet if your dog’s ear itching is constant, worsening, or paired with other symptoms. Signs that require prompt veterinary attention include:

Persistent redness or swelling inside the ear.
Foul odor or thick discharge coming from the ear.
Dark, coffee-ground-like material (a sign of ear mites).
Frequent head shaking or tilting.
Visible pain when the ear is touched.
Sudden swelling of the ear flap (possible hematoma).

Delaying treatment for ear problems can result in chronic infections, lasting discomfort, or even hearing loss. Early diagnosis ensures your dog gets the right treatment and relief quickly.

Key Takeaway

Excessive ear itching in dogs is almost always a sign of an underlying problem that needs attention.

From ear infections and mites to allergies or foreign objects, the causes vary but should not be ignored.

Gentle ear care, a clean environment, and prompt veterinary treatment are key to keeping your dog comfortable and preventing long-term ear health issues.