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My dog has a bloody ear and shakes his head. Is it an infection?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years old | 60 lbs

My dog has a bloody ear, and there’s dry blood, and he keeps shaking his head, how do I treat it or should I take home to the vet

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2020

This presentation could be due to an ear infections. Three sections of the ear can be infected, the external portion (otitis externa), the middle portion (otitis media) and the inner portion (otitis interna). Otitis externa is the most common ear infection in dogs.
In this case it seems an external ear infection but an otoscopic examination will determine the exactly the extension of it.
A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on February 20th, 2017
It's probably an ear infection, often it cannot be seen from the outside. Ear infections are very common in dogs, it is usually caused by either yeast or bacterial disease. the treatment is usually simple and straightforward, you will have to take Benji to the vet and get the ears checked, then a prescription ear drops will be prescribed according to the infectious agent.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on March 5th, 2018
I am sorry that Shorty is so uncomfortable. I suspect that he has an infection. It could be bacterial, fungal, or possibly a combination infection. I would highly encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian soon. They will likely send Home ear medication and possibly steroids to decrease his itching. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on November 26th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

The most common reason for a dog to shake it's head is an ear infection. They can have an infection in one or both ears. The most common cause is an overgrowth of bacteria and/or yeast from allergies or increased moisture in the ear. I recommend calling your Vet Monday and scheduling an appointment. The Vet will look in her ears and take a swab of the wax. Under the microscope they can tell if the infection is from yeast or bacteria. They will then prescribe an ear safe cleaner and medicated drops to put in the ear.

I do not recommend continuing to clean her ear with soap and water.

I hope this helps and I wish Elsa a speedy recovery!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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