Constant Ear Scratching in Dogs: When is it Normal, When is it a Serious Problem?
- Veteriner Hekim Ebru KARANFİL
- Dec 20, 2025
- 12 min read
What does constant ear scratching mean in dogs?
Ear scratching in dogs, when considered in isolation, doesn't always indicate a problem. Dogs may occasionally scratch their ears, touch them with their paws, or briefly shake their heads. These behaviors are often related to environmental stimuli, short-term itching, or temporary factors causing discomfort inside the ear.
However, if ear scratching becomes "constant," it suggests that the behavior may be more than just a habit; it could be an outward expression of an underlying condition . The critical point here is to evaluate the behavior in conjunction with its frequency, duration, and other accompanying findings .
Constant ear scratching is often associated with one of the following conditions:
An irritation in the ear canal that causes itching.
Disruption of the moisture balance inside the ear
Increased microbial or parasitic load in the ear canal.
Weakening of the skin barrier
Allergic reactions are concentrated in the ear region.
The ear in dogs is a closed and delicate anatomical structure . Air circulation is restricted, especially in dogs with floppy ears, dense fur, or narrow ear canals. This can cause the itching threshold to be exceeded more quickly. When itching begins, the dog reflexively scratches its ear. As scratching increases, the ear skin becomes more irritated, creating a vicious cycle .
The important point here is this: ear scratching is a symptom , the real issue is what triggered that symptom . Therefore, instead of ignoring the behavior by saying "it will pass," its duration and progression should be carefully monitored.
Symptoms Associated with Persistent Ear Scratching in Dogs
Persistent ear scratching often doesn't occur in isolation . It is usually accompanied by other physical or behavioral symptoms. Evaluating these symptoms together provides important clues as to whether the ear scratching is a simple condition requiring intervention .
The following table lists common symptoms associated with ear scratching in dogs, possible underlying conditions, and brief descriptions:
Symptom | Possible Illness/Condition | Explanation |
Constant ear scratching | Ear irritation, allergic reaction. | Persistent itching usually suggests more than just a superficial discomfort. |
Don't shake your head too often. | Ear canal disorder | The dog reflexively shakes its head to reduce the uncomfortable sensation inside its ear. |
Redness in the ear | Skin irritation, inflammation | Scratching and increased moisture can cause redness in the skin of the ear. |
Bad smell in the ear | Disruption of microbial balance | The detection of a distinct odor in the ear, which is normally odorless, should be noted. |
ear discharge | Increased ear discharge | The color and consistency of the discharge may vary depending on the underlying condition. |
Ear sensitivity | Pain or severe irritation | Avoidance or discomfort may be observed when the ear area is touched. |
Thickening of the earlobe | Chronic irritation | Prolonged scratching can lead to structural changes in ear tissue. |
Behavioral change | Constant feeling of discomfort | Restlessness, irritability, or decreased desire to play may occur. |
Scratching on one ear | Local factors | Foreign body, unilateral irritation, or differences in canal structure should be considered. |
Itching in both ears at once | Systemic or environmental factors | Allergic or environmental factors become more likely. |
This table provides a framework for more informed assessment of ear scratching behavior, rather than for making a definitive judgment . The presence of multiple findings together suggests that the condition may be more than just a simple itch.
When is ear scratching considered normal in dogs?
Ear scratching in dogs is not always an indicator of a problem. Short-lived, spontaneous ear scratching under specific conditions can be considered within physiological limits. The definition of "normal" here is directly related to the frequency, duration, and presence of other accompanying symptoms of the behavior.
In normal circumstances, ear scratching usually exhibits the following characteristics:
It is intermittent and does not repeat continuously throughout the day.
No redness, discharge, or tenderness occurs in the ear area after scratching.
The dog does not show restlessness, loss of appetite, or aggression in its general behavior.
Head-nodding behavior is either absent altogether or very brief.
Ear scratching will decrease or disappear completely on its own within a few days.
Environmental factors are among the most common causes of temporary ear scratching behavior. A dusty environment, wind, short-term humidity, or hair touching the inside of the ear can cause a temporary feeling of discomfort in a dog. In such cases, the dog may scratch its ear reflexively, but this behavior does not become permanent .
Additionally, a small amount of water entering the ear after bathing can also cause short-term itching. In this case, the dog will scratch its ear a few times and shake its head, after which the behavior will return to normal. If there is no noticeable odor, discharge, or tenderness in the ear, this condition is usually self-limiting .
In summary, ear scratching alone , if brief and unaccompanied by other symptoms, can generally be considered normal. However, if the behavior recurs or intensifies over time, it may indicate a condition requiring evaluation.
When is ear scratching in dogs a sign of a serious problem?
If ear scratching becomes more frequent, more severe, or accompanied by other symptoms , it suggests that the behavior has exceeded normal limits. At this point, ear scratching becomes a way for the dog to express the discomfort it is experiencing.
Ear-scratching behaviors that should be taken seriously generally have the following characteristics:
Repeated and prolonged scratching throughout the day
Violent head shaking accompanied by scratching.
Redness, swelling, or thickening in or around the earlobe or inside the ear
Distinct odor or discharge from the ear
Avoidance, crying, or aggressive reaction when the ear area is touched.
Behavioral changes (restlessness, decreased desire to play, disrupted sleep)
Constant scratching, over time, causes micro-traumas to the skin of the ear. These small injuries further disrupt the balance inside the ear and increase the itching sensation. Thus, the scratching behavior enters a self-reinforcing cycle.
Scratching that is concentrated in one ear, in particular, should be carefully evaluated. Unilateral scratching often suggests a local trigger and needs to be addressed without delay. Scratching that starts in both ears and gradually intensifies indicates that more comprehensive factors may be at play.
The key distinction here is that if ear scratching starts affecting your dog's daily quality of life , it's no longer just a simple behavior. At this stage, ignoring it for days can pave the way for more difficult-to-reverse changes in the ear tissue.
Possible Causes of Constant Ear Scratching in Dogs
Persistent ear scratching is usually caused by a combination of factors, not a single cause . Therefore, both intra-ear and extra-ear factors should be considered during evaluation.
The most common possible causes are:
Disruption of the moisture balance inside the ear canal: Increased moisture in the ear canal triggers an itching sensation. This is especially noticeable in dogs that are frequently bathed or enjoy swimming.
Weakened skin barrier: When the natural protective structure of the ear skin is disrupted, sensitivity to external stimuli increases. This makes itching more likely to occur.
Allergic predispositions: In some dogs, allergic responses to environmental factors or foods can manifest as intense itching in the ear area.
The anatomical structure of the ear canal: Narrow, curved, or densely hairy ear canals reduce air circulation. This structure predisposes to more frequent itching.
The accumulation of earwax in the ear, along with increased ear secretion that cannot be adequately removed, increases discomfort and triggers scratching behavior.
Environmental irritants: Factors such as dust, pollen, cleaning products, or bedding materials can cause irritation around the ears.
Each of these factors may be effective alone or in combination. The important thing is to accurately observe how long the ear scratching has been going on, under what conditions it worsens, and what other symptoms may accompany it .
Dog Breeds Prone to Ear Scratching
While ear scratching can occur in any dog, some breeds are more prone to this symptom due to their ear anatomy, coat structure, and skin characteristics . In particular, ear structures with limited air circulation can cause the scratching threshold to be exceeded more quickly.
The table below summarizes the dog breeds that are more frequently observed to be prone to ear scratching and the reasons why:
Race | Reason for predisposition | Explanation |
Cocker Spaniel | drooping ear structure | Air circulation is limited, moisture accumulates easily. |
Golden Retriever | Severe hair and skin sensitivity | The risk of moisture and irritation increases around the ear. |
Labrador Retriever | Tendency to come into contact with water | Increased moisture in the ear can occur after frequent swimming. |
Basset Hound | Long and heavy auricle | The ear canal may remain permanently closed. |
Poodle | Dense hair inside the ear | There is a high tendency for accumulation of fluid in the ear canal. |
German Shepherd | Skin sensitivity | Itching can be more easily triggered by environmental factors. |
French Bulldog | Narrow ear canal | Airflow is restricted, increasing the risk of irritation. |
Ear scratching may be observed more frequently than normal in these breeds, but this does not always indicate a serious problem. Nevertheless, closer monitoring of ear behavior in dogs in this group is recommended.
How should constant ear scratching in dogs be evaluated?
When evaluating persistent ear scratching, the goal is not to focus on a single symptom, but to understand the behavior as a whole and its context . This evaluation should be based on both the dog owner's observations and general physical findings.
The following questions are important in the evaluation process:
How long has this ear scratching been going on?
How many times a day does the behavior occur and for how long ?
Is the itching occurring in one ear or both ears?
Is it accompanied by head shaking, odor, discharge, or tenderness?
Is there any change in the dog's overall behavior?
The answers to these questions will help determine whether ear scratching is a temporary condition or a process that requires monitoring . Scratching behaviors that increase in intensity over time, are accompanied by other symptoms , or affect the dog's daily life should be addressed more carefully.
It is also important to avoid excessive intervention in the ear area during the assessment. Unconscious, frequent cleaning or the use of inappropriate products can worsen itching instead of reducing it. Therefore, observation, recording, and a controlled approach when necessary should be prioritized.
What happens if constant ear scratching in dogs is neglected?
When persistent ear scratching is ignored for a long time, what initially seems like a simple discomfort can develop into a more complex condition . The scratching behavior triggers a chain reaction in the ear region.
If neglected, the following consequences may arise over time:
Thickening and hardening of the skin on the ear. Continuous mechanical irritation can cause structural changes in the auricle and ear canal entrance.
A lowered itching threshold: As the skin on the ear becomes more sensitive, even very mild stimuli can cause intense itching.
Behavioral effects: Dogs that experience persistent discomfort may exhibit restlessness, decreased desire to play, and disrupted sleep.
Permanent changes in ear structure: Prolonged scratching and head shaking can lead to changes in the shape of ear tissues.
It's important to note that waiting for ear scratching to resolve on its own isn't always the right approach . The longer the behavior persists, the longer the resolution process usually takes. However, ear scratching that is detected early and monitored correctly can often be brought under control more quickly.
Home Care and Prevention Practices for Persistent Ear Scratching in Dogs
Home care and preventative measures play an important role in reducing the severity of persistent ear scratching and preventing its recurrence . The main goal here is to create a healthier environment without irritating the ear area.
The main points to consider in a home environment are as follows:
Regular examination of the ears: Check for redness, odor, or discharge at regular intervals.
Drying the ears after bathing: Even if no water gets into the ear canal, care should be taken to ensure that no moisture remains around the earlobe.
Avoid excessive cleaning. Frequent and indiscriminate ear cleaning can disrupt the natural balance of the ear skin.
Organizing your living space: Dusty beds, cleaning products containing strong chemicals, and humid environments can worsen ear itching.
Behavioral monitoring: Noting any increase in scratching frequency or new signs makes it easier to evaluate the process.
Home care practices don't guarantee the complete elimination of ear scratching, but they help keep the behavior under control. The risk of ear scratching becoming chronic can be significantly reduced, especially when a preventative approach is adopted.
What Dog Owners Should Know About Ear Scratching
To properly manage ear-scratching behavior in dogs, dog owners need to clearly understand some fundamental points. While ear scratching often seems insignificant at first glance , neglecting the pattern and frequency of the behavior can open the door to more complex issues.
It is especially important for dog owners to be aware of the following:
Ear scratching isn't a behavior, it's a signal. The dog expresses discomfort in the ear area by scratching. Therefore, instead of suppressing the behavior itself, it's important to understand what triggers it.
Not every scratching habit is urgent, but any persistent scratching should be monitored. Occasional scratching is often harmless. However, if the behavior becomes regular, it should be noted and not ignored.
Unnecessary interference with the ears can worsen the condition. Frequent ear picking, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal, or using random products can disrupt the natural balance of the ear skin.
Unilateral and bilateral scratching can have different meanings. Scratching concentrated in only one ear should not be evaluated in the same way as scratching in both ears.
Behavioral changes provide important clues. Restlessness, decreased desire to play, and disrupted sleep may indicate that ear scratching is affecting your dog's quality of life.
The healthiest approach for a dog owner is to recognize ear-scratching behavior early, observe it carefully, and manage the process without making hasty decisions . This approach helps protect both ear health and the dog's overall comfort. (Constant ear scratching in dogs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is constant ear scratching always a problem in dogs?
No. Ear scratching in dogs can be a natural behavior that can occur occasionally. Especially if it's short-lived, intermittent, and not accompanied by other symptoms, it usually doesn't indicate a serious condition. However, if the scratching becomes more frequent throughout the day, lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by symptoms such as head shaking, scent, or discharge, it may be more than just a simple behavior and needs to be monitored.
Why is ear scratching more noticeable at night in dogs?
Dogs experience discomfort more intensely at night because environmental stimuli decrease. When daytime distractions are gone, the itching sensation in the ear area can become more pronounced. Therefore, some dogs perceive increased ear scratching, especially at night.
My dog is scratching its ears but there's no smell, is this normal?
The absence of odor doesn't always indicate a serious condition. Early ear problems or mild irritations may not produce a noticeable odor. However, if the scratching behavior becomes persistent, the absence of odor doesn't make it entirely harmless. The duration and intensity of the behavior are more important factors in determining the cause.
In dogs, is it more important to scratch one ear or both ears?
Scratching concentrated in one ear usually suggests a local factor. Scratching in both ears, however, may be related to more broader factors. In both cases, however, the duration of the behavior and accompanying symptoms should be evaluated. Unilateral scratching, especially if prolonged, should be monitored more closely.
What does it mean when a dog scratches its ears and shakes its head at the same time?
Ear scratching combined with head shaking indicates an uncomfortable sensation in the ear. The dog reflexively shakes its head to reduce this sensation. If this combination doesn't subside quickly, the ear area needs closer observation.
Can ear scratching behavior in dogs go away on its own?
Yes, it can sometimes go away. Itching caused by temporary moisture, short-term irritation, or an environmental stimulus may subside within a few days. However, if the behavior continues with the same intensity or worsens, it shouldn't be expected to go away on its own.
Can ear scratching in dogs be seasonal?
Yes. Ear scratching can be more frequent in dogs, especially those sensitive to environmental factors, during certain seasons. Weather conditions, humidity levels, and changes in the environment can affect this behavior. Even if it's seasonal, persistent ear scratching should not be ignored.
Could ear scratching in dogs be related to stress?
Can ear scratching become a habit in dogs?
Prolonged scratching can become a habit, even if the initial trigger is removed. Therefore, it is important to monitor scratching behaviors noticed early on. Long-term scratching can increase sensitivity in the ear skin, making the behavior more likely to continue.
Will frequently cleaning my dog's ears reduce itching?
No, it doesn't always reduce it. Excessive and indiscriminate ear cleaning can disrupt the natural balance of the ear skin and increase itching. Ear cleaning should be controlled and only when needed. Unnecessary interventions can intensify the behavior of scratching one's ears.
Can ear scratching in dogs be monitored at home?
Yes. Frequency and duration of scratching, whether it occurs in one or both ears, and any accompanying symptoms can be observed at home. These observations are very valuable in evaluating the process. In particular, any changes in behavior should be noted regularly.
What happens if ear scratching in dogs progresses?
Prolonged scratching can lead to irritation, thickening, and increased sensitivity of the skin around the ear. This can further lower the scratching threshold, causing the behavior to intensify. Therefore, persistent scratching should not be ignored.
Can ear scratching occur in dogs of all ages?
Yes. Ear scratching can occur in puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. However, the causes and course of the behavior can vary depending on age. Therefore, assessment should always be done in conjunction with the dog's overall condition.
Does ear scratching in dogs affect their daily quality of life?
Constant ear scratching can cause restlessness, disrupted sleep, and a decreased desire to play in dogs. This directly affects their quality of life. Whether the behavior disrupts the dog's daily routine is an important indicator.
When should ear scratching in dogs be taken seriously?
If ear scratching persists for more than a few days, intensifies, or is accompanied by head shaking, odor, discharge, or tenderness, it should be taken seriously. At this point, ear scratching is no longer a simple behavior, but a symptom that needs to be monitored.
Sources
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
European Society of Veterinary Dermatology (ESVD)
Merck Veterinary Manual
Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic https://share.google/jgNW7TpQVLQ3NeUf2
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