Dog Scratching Ears: Causes & Safe Home Remedies

Why Dogs Scratch Their Ears

While a dog scratching ears occasionally is normal, consistent pawing at the ears, shaking the head, and even leaving raw, red, or open wounds behind is not.

Unlike the human ear canal, which is straight, a dog’s ear canal is shaped like an “L”, dropping down vertically and then taking a sharp turn toward the eardrum. In most cases, scratching is caused by inflammation of the outer canal, known medically as Otitis Externa. This is why debris, wax, and moisture get trapped so easily, and why sticking a Q-tip in there just pushes everything deeper around that corner where you cannot reach it.

To deal with the scratching the right way, the cause has to be identified first. What works for allergies will not help with mites, and what helps with mites will not fix a foreign body. Below are the most common reasons dogs scratch their ears and what to do about each one.

There are different causes of itch in dog ears, both medical and non-medical. Every dog reacts differently. Something that drives one dog crazy may not bother another at all.

Allergic Reactions

When dogs encounter allergens that trigger their immune system, it kicks into gear. They scratch nonstop at their ears until the ear flaps become inflamed. In response to the inflammation, the body produces excess wax and other secretions. That warm, waxy buildup becomes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, which kicks off a frustrating cycle.

The allergic reaction triggers inflammation, the inflammation feeds infection, and the infection makes the itch worse. Until the allergen is eliminated or the reaction is suppressed, the scratching just keeps going.

Antihistamines can take the edge off mild seasonal flare-ups, but they are rarely enough on their own for anything moderate or severe. For dogs stuck in that chronic itch cycle, vets now lean toward medications like Apoquel (a daily pill) or Cytopoint (a long-acting injection) that target the itch signal directly. These have become the go-to options for allergic itch because they work faster and more reliably than older treatments.

Note that Apoquel is only for dogs at least one year old and is typically avoided if a dog has a history of cancer or an active, severe infection.

Yeast and Bacterial Infections

Yeast infections can show up as a secondary effect of allergies, but they also pop up on their own when conditions are right. A warm, moist ear canal is paradise for yeast.

Bacterial infections follow a similar pattern. They may start as a complication of allergies or develop independently. Either way, these infections are notoriously itchy, and dogs dealing with such infections will scratch nonstop, shake their heads, and often produce a foul-smelling discharge.

If the itch comes with a bad smell or discharge, home remedies would no longer help. A vet visit would be needed to identify whether it is yeast, bacteria, or both, and prescribe the right treatment.

Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that feed on ear wax and live in the ear canal. They infest both the vertical and horizontal sections of the ear canal and cause intense, relentless irritation. A dog with ear mites will scratch relentlessly.

These parasites are highly contagious between animals. One telltale sign is a dark, crumbly discharge that looks like coffee grounds. Left untreated, ear mites cause ongoing inflammation that can lead to secondary infections and even hearing loss. A vet can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe the right anti-parasitic treatment for your dog.

Ticks and Fleas

External parasites are another common culprit of dog scratching. Ticks and fleas are among such parasites. Ticks love to latch on around and behind the dog’s ears where the skin is thin. Fleas cause widespread itching all over, and some dogs are allergic to flea saliva, which makes the itch dramatically worse.

Regular parasite prevention goes a long way here. If ticks or fleas are already on the dog, deal with the infestation first before trying to treat the ear itch separately.

Foreign Bodies

Dogs are playful by nature. They stick their noses into bushes, tall grass, and all sorts of places they probably should not be. Foxtails, grass awns, and bits of pollen can end up lodged in the ear canal. It is also possible for bits of cotton or paper towel to get left behind inside the canal during a cleaning session. When wiping the ear, use 100% real cotton balls. Avoid synthetic materials or paper towels, which can leave tiny fibers behind that further irritate the canal.

A foreign body usually causes sudden, intense scratching on one side. The dog will tend to tilt their head toward the affected ear and paw at it frantically.

If something is visible on the outer ear flap, it can be gently removed. But if it has gone into the canal, leave it alone. Remember that L-shaped canal. Trying to fish something out with tweezers risks pushing it deeper or puncturing the eardrum. Get to the vet instead.

Dry Skin

When a dog has dry skin on the ears, the flaking and irritation will drive scratching. This can come from environmental factors, nutritional gaps, or grooming products that strip away natural oils.

Beyond the scratching, the dog will have flaky, rough skin around the ears. If the dryness shows up in other parts of the body too, it points to a bigger issue that may need dietary changes or a different grooming routine.

Aural Masses

Tumors and polyps can grow inside a dog’s ear canal. The dog recognizes something is in there that should not be and responds with scratching and head shaking.

These are not something that can be handled at home. If the scratching is persistent and nothing else seems to explain it, aural masses need to be ruled out by a vet.

A Word About Puppies

Puppies are delicate. Their immune systems are still developing, which makes them more vulnerable to both infections and parasites.

It can be hard to tell if a puppy’s scratching is just a passing thing or the beginning of a real problem. Because ear issues can escalate quickly in young dogs and potentially affect their hearing, do not wait around to try home remedies. Have a puppy checked by the vet at the first sign of persistent scratching.

Home Remedies & Treatments

Some mild ear itching can be managed at home. The key word there is mild. If there is discharge, odor, or pain, skip the home remedies and get to the vet.

Apple Cider Vinegar (Outer Ear Only)

A 50/50 mix of water and apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball is a great way to gently wipe the outer ear flap. The mild acidity helps discourage bacterial and yeast growth on the surface. However, if the ear has more than just a tiny scratch (if it is actually raw, weeping, or bleeding) skip the vinegar. Stinging an open wound with acid will only make the inflammation and your dog’s pain worse.

Antihistamines

When the ear itch is allergy-related, it usually comes and goes. The ear flap will appear red and inflamed, but there will not be excess wax or discharge. Over-the-counter antihistamines can help by blocking the trigger of the inflammation. They work best for mild seasonal flare-ups. For moderate or severe cases, they are rarely enough on their own.

The most commonly used OTC antihistamines for dogs are Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Claritin (loratadine). Benadryl works fast but causes drowsiness. Zyrtec is less sedating and lasts longer with once-daily dosing, which is why many vets now prefer it. Claritin is another less-drowsy option, but owners must make sure they buy plain Claritin, not Claritin-D, which contains a decongestant that is toxic to dogs.

Always use plain, single-ingredient formulas. Some liquid and dissolvable tablet versions contain xylitol (sometimes labeled as birch sugar), which is extremely toxic to dogs. Check the inactive ingredients list before giving any human medication to a dog. Because the effects of antihistamines and itch-blockers usually wear off within 12 to 24 hours, consistent daily dosing is required to keep the dog comfortable. The dosage depends on the dog’s body weight, so check with your vet before giving any.

Over-the-Counter Anti-Itch Creams

Non-prescription anti-itch creams can help soothe an inflamed ear flap and calm the irritation at the base of the ear. They work by slowing down the chemicals responsible for inflammation.

For the outer ear flap, plain 1% hydrocortisone cream (available at any pharmacy) can be applied in a thin layer to reduce itch and redness. Keep the dog from licking the area for at least 30 minutes after applying. Do not use hydrocortisone cream inside the ear canal.

For itch and infection inside the ear canal, Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution is a popular OTC option available at pet stores, Chewy, and Amazon without a prescription. It comes in two versions: one with 1% hydrocortisone (for itch and inflammation) and one hydrocortisone-free (safe for pregnant or nursing dogs). Zymox uses an enzyme system to fight bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections without antibiotics.

These are only suitable for short-term relief. Long-term use of any hydrocortisone product can thin the skin over time. Stick to using them for a few days at most, and if the itch has not improved by then, it is time for a vet visit.

OTC Ear Mite Treatments

There are several over-the-counter ear mite treatments available without a vet visit. The most common OTC options include:

• Eradimite Ear Mite Treatment: a pyrethrin-based solution (a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers) that kills ear mites and ticks, and also helps remove excess ear wax. Available at pet pharmacies and online.
• Adams Ear Mite Treatment: another pyrethrin-based OTC option, widely available at pet stores.
• Bio-Groom Ear Mite Treatment: includes aloe vera to soothe irritated skin, available on Chewy and Amazon.
• PetArmor Ear Mite & Tick Treatment: a budget-friendly OTC option.
• Zymox Otic (already mentioned above): also effective against ear mites in addition to bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections.

Note: OTC ear mite treatments typically take 3 to 4 weeks to fully work, compared to 7 to 10 days for prescription medications. They are a reasonable starting point for mild cases, but if there is no improvement after a week of treatment, stop and see a vet rather than continuing with something that is not working. Prescription options are faster and more reliable.

Prescription Ear Drops

Stronger medicated ear drops that contain prescription-strength antibiotics (such as Otomax) require a vet visit. These usually contain a combination of antibiotic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. The vet will let you know how often to use them and for how long, since the treatment course varies depending on what is going on in the ear.

Prevention

Check the ears weekly. If there is visible wax, a funky smell, or the dog has been swimming or got a bath, go ahead and clean. Otherwise, leave them be. Over-cleaning strips the natural oils and can actually cause irritation.

A healthy ear canal looks smooth, shiny, and pale pink. Any redness, swelling, discharge, or bad odor means something is off and is worth a closer look.

Ear Cleaning Products

For routine ear cleaning and prevention, Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner is one of the most widely vet-recommended OTC ear cleaners. It removes wax and debris while discouraging bacterial and yeast buildup. It is gentle enough for regular use and available without a prescription at pet stores and online.

For owners who prefer a natural or herbal option, Halo Cloud Nine Herbal Ear Wash is an all-natural alternative made with chamomile, sage oil, clove oil, calendula, and a witch hazel base. It contains no artificial chemicals or preservatives and is safe for both dogs and cats. It is available on Chewy and Amazon.

Ear Grooming for Hairy Breeds

Dogs with a lot of ear hair trap more moisture inside the canal. Keeping that hair trimmed down reduces the chance of infections, especially during warm months or for dogs that love the water.

Always make sure the ears are dried out thoroughly after swimming or bathing. Trapped moisture is one of the fastest paths to a yeast infection.

When to See a Veterinarian

Home remedies have their limits. Some situations call for professional help right away. Left untreated, a simple outer ear infection can travel deep into the middle or inner ear (Otitis Media or Interna), leading to permanent deafness or even facial paralysis. Get to the vet if your dog is showing any of the following:

• Scratching so intense it causes bleeding or raw skin
• Foul-smelling ears
• Loss of balance or coordination (vestibular signs)
• Signs of hearing loss
• Bloody, yellow, or brown discharge
• Scabs or crusts in or around the ear
• Hair loss around the ears
• Head shaking or tilting while scratching
• Crying, whining, or licking while scratching

If home treatment has not improved things within a week, stop and get a vet evaluation. And if the dog is in obvious pain from the start, crying or whining when you touch the ear, do not wait the week out. Go to the vet immediately.

Note from the Editors: This guide was originally authored by Dr. Winnie, DVM. It was updated to reflect current veterinary safety standards. To ensure the highest clinical standards, this post is currently in our queue for a veterinary re-review.

References

1. Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis Externa in Dogs
2. American Kennel Club: Dog Ear Infections: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
3. Veterinary Partner (VIN): Ear Mites in Dogs and Cats
4. American Kennel Club: Apoquel for Dogs
5. Zoetis (Manufacturer): Cytopoint for Allergic Itch in Dogs
6. VCA Animal Hospitals: Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications That May Be Safe for Dogs
7. GoodRx: Which OTC Medications Are Safe for Dogs and Cats, and Which Ones Aren’t?
8. PetMD: Hydrocortisone for Dogs
9. Zymox (Manufacturer): ZYMOX Otic Enzymatic Solution With 1% Hydrocortisone
10. GoodRx: Ear Mites in Dogs: How to Spot and Treat These Itchy Pests
11. Dogster: 8 Best Ear Mite Treatments for Dogs in 2026: Reviews & Top Picks
12. Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital: Antihistamines for Skin Allergies in Dogs