Why Your Dog’s Ears Stink and What To Do

Ever notice your dog’s ears giving off a funky smell and wonder, “What’s going on here?” If your dog’s ears stink, it’s usually a sign that something’s up. From earwax buildup to full-blown infections, there are a few reasons why your pup’s ears might be a little smelly.

Let’s break down what might be causing that odor, and more importantly, how to keep your dog’s ears healthy, clean, and stink-free.a

Why Do My Dog’s Ears Smell?

There are several things that can make your dog’s ears smell. Some are pretty mild, while others could be a sign of a more serious issue. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Earwax Buildup

Just like us, dogs get earwax. Sometimes, their natural ear-cleaning process gets a little off track, and earwax starts to build up. While it might not bother your dog at all, you might notice a mild smell. The earwax is usually yellow, and the good news is that regular ear cleaning with a vet-approved solution can usually solve the problem.

2. Yeast Infections

One of the more common reasons for smelly dog ears is a yeast infection. If your dog’s ears have a sweet or musty smell—often described as smelling like “Fritos®”—they may have a yeast infection. You’ll likely notice redness or a brown discharge too.

If you think your dog has a yeast infection, it’s a good idea to check with your vet to get the right treatment.

3. Bacterial Infections

If the smell is really strong, you could be dealing with a bacterial infection, which is a bit more serious. In severe cases, you can smell your dog’s ears from across the room. Bacterial infections can also cause more intense symptoms, like fluid, pain, and even ulcers inside your dog’s ears.

If you suspect a bacterial infection, definitely skip the home remedies and take your dog to the vet right away. Trying to clean it on your own could make things worse.

4. Mixed Infections

Sometimes, it’s a mix of both yeast and bacteria causing your dog’s ear issues. These mixed infections are fairly common and will also need a vet's help to diagnose and treat properly.

How to Get Rid of Smelly Dog Ears

For most dogs, keeping their ears clean can help get rid of mild smells. Here’s what you can do:

• Routine Ear Cleaning: Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and clean your dog’s ears as needed, especially if they have a lot of earwax buildup. This will help clear out any wax, dirt, or gunk that might be causing the smell.

• Ear Hair: Some dogs have more ear hair than others, which can trap odor and wax. If that’s the case with your pup, a groomer can help trim back some of the excess ear hair.

If your dog’s ears still smell bad after a cleaning or they’re showing other signs of an infection (like head shaking, scratching, redness, or discomfort), it’s time to see the vet. Cleaning an infected ear can sometimes make it worse, so let your vet take a look first before doing any at-home treatments.

Should You Be Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears?

Dogs naturally have an ear-cleaning mechanism that takes care of most of the dirt and wax on its own. So, you shouldn’t be cleaning your dog’s ears all the time—only under specific circumstances, like:

• Your dog’s ears look dirty

• They just went swimming or had a bath (use an ear cleaner with a drying agent)

• Your vet advised you to clean their ears while treating an infection

Certain breeds, like Cocker Spaniels, tend to have more earwax, so they may need ear cleanings more often than other dogs. Always use a cleaner made specifically for dogs, and avoid using DIY recipes with hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or alcohol, which can irritate their ears or make things worse.

How to Prevent Smelly Ears

To avoid stinky ears and keep your pup’s ears healthy, here are a few easy steps you can take:

• Check Their Ears Weekly: Keep an eye out for any early signs of problems like odor, discharge, swelling, or redness. If you catch it early, you can deal with it before it turns into something more serious.

• Avoid Water in the Ears: Water can lead to ear infections, so try to keep your dog’s ears dry when they’re swimming or bathing.

• Grooming and Ear Hair Trimming: If your dog has a lot of ear hair, regular grooming can help prevent earwax and odor buildup.

• Manage Allergies: If your dog has allergies, their ears are more prone to infections. Stick to your vet’s allergy management plan, which might include a special diet, medication, or even allergy shots. A proper diet with omega fatty acids can also help keep your dog’s ears healthier and less prone to infections.

When to Call the Vet

If your dog has recurrent ear infections or the smell just won’t go away, it’s definitely time to talk to your vet. Some dogs are just more prone to ear issues, but your vet can help figure out if there’s an underlying cause and create a treatment plan to keep those infections under control.

Smelly dog ears are pretty common, but they’re not something you want to ignore. Whether it’s a simple wax buildup or something more serious like an infection, taking action early can help prevent bigger problems down the road. Keep your dog’s ears clean, dry, and regularly checked, and you’ll be able to nip any ear issues in the bud!

At Joyride Harness, we know that being a dog parent is full of surprises—some cuter than others. Our blog is here to give you all the tips and tricks you need, from handling stinky ears to choosing the right gear for your daily walks. We’re here to make sure both you and your dog are happy, healthy, and ready for all of life’s adventures!