2025 Tips for Addressing Dogs' Smelly Ears

If you've ever caught a whiff of something unpleasant emanating from your dog's ears, you're not alone. Many dog owners notice unusual odors coming from their pets' ears, ranging from cheesy to musty or even fecal-like smells. While some odors can be harmless, others may indicate underlying health issues that require attention. Follow this guide to determine whether your dogs' smelly ears require attention immediately.

Are Dogs' Ears Supposed to Smell?

A healthy dog's ears should have little to no odor. A slight, natural scent might be present, but any strong or unusual smell is often a sign of an underlying issue. Regular checks can help detect problems early.

Why Do Dogs' Ears Smell

A dog's smelly ears can be indicators of various ear issues. Understanding the causes of smelly ears is essential for determining the targeted treatment for your furry friends.

1. Ear Wax Buildup

Just like humans, dogs naturally produce earwax (cerumen) to trap dust, debris, and microorganisms. But when this wax accumulates excessively—especially in dogs with floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds—it can trap moisture and bacteria. This creates a warm, damp environment with a sour or musty smell. If your dog’s ears appear dirty or yellowish-brown inside, and they emit an unpleasant odor, ear wax buildup could be the culprit. Regular cleaning with a safe ear solution can help maintain hygiene and prevent further issues.

Actually, the color of earwax can help confirm your dog's ear problems, too.

Read: Dog Earwax Color Chart

2. Yeast Infections

Yeast (typically Malassezia pachydermatis) is a fungus that naturally lives on your dog’s skin but can overgrow in moist, poorly ventilated ears. Yeast infections usually give off a sweet, rancid, or cheesy smell, similar to moldy bread or corn chips. Dogs with yeast issues may also scratch, shake their heads, or have red, inflamed ear flaps. Dogs with allergies or a history of chronic ear infections are especially prone. In mild cases, consistent cleaning and antifungal ear drops can offer relief.

3. Bacterial Infections

When bacteria (like Staphylococcus or Pseudomonas) invade the ear canal, they often cause a strong, rotten, or sour odor. You might also see pus-like discharge, crusty buildup, or hear squishy sounds when pressing the ear. These infections may develop after swimming, improper cleaning, or due to underlying conditions like allergies. Left untreated, they can become chronic or lead to eardrum damage. Immediate cleaning followed by antibacterial treatment is essential—consult your vet if symptoms persist for more than a few days.

Also Read: Dog Ear Infections: Yeast Or Bacteria

4. Ear Mites

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are microscopic parasites that can infest the ear canals, especially in puppies or outdoor dogs. Affected ears typically emit a sharp, acrid smell and may have dark, coffee ground-like discharge. Dogs with ear mites often scratch furiously, tilt their heads, or whimper in discomfort. These infestations are highly contagious between pets. Treat promptly with an ear mite removal solution, which not only kills mites but also helps clean out their waste. Besides, the mite topical control product is recommended. 

Shop Puainta® Quantum Ear Drop

This ear drop is formulated to relieve itching, clean earwax and ear mites, and remove ear mites. Its ingredients include quantum silver and chamomile, known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Regular use can help maintain ear health and prevent infections.

5. Foreign Objects

Outdoor adventures can leave your dog with grass seeds, dirt, sand, or plant material lodged in the ear canal. These foreign bodies cause localized inflammation, leading to infection, irritation, and a foul smell. You may notice your dog repeatedly shaking its head or pawing at its ears. If a foreign object is visible, never attempt deep removal yourself—this can damage the ear. Instead, clean the outer ear gently and seek veterinary help to avoid infection or hearing loss.

Specific Odors and Their Causes

Dogs’ Ears Smell Like Cheese

If your dog’s ears smell like aged cheese or sour dairy, this is a strong indication of a yeast infection, most commonly caused by the fungus Malassezia pachydermatis. This yeast thrives in warm, moist environments—making the ear canal an ideal breeding ground, especially for dogs with floppy or hairy ears like Golden Retrievers and Poodles.

Other signs often include:

• A brown, waxy discharge

• Redness or thickened skin inside the ear

• Frequent scratching or head shaking

This cheesy odor is not just unpleasant—it means the infection is active and needs attention. Mild yeast infections can often be managed with antifungal ear cleaners like Puainta® Quantum Ear Cleaner, while more advanced cases may require medicated drops or oral treatment from a vet.

Dogs’ Ears Smell Like Fritos (Corn Chips)

A corn chip or “Frito-like” smell coming from your dog’s ears usually results from an overgrowth of normal skin bacteria—particularly Pseudomonas and Proteus species. These microbes are harmless in small numbers, but when they multiply due to moisture, trapped debris, or poor ventilation, the smell intensifies.

This odor might be your first warning sign of:

• Bacterial imbalance in the ears

• Early stages of an ear infection

• Poor ear hygiene

Dogs that swim frequently, live in humid environments, or aren’t having their ears cleaned regularly are more prone. Using a gentle but effective product like Puainta® Quantum Ear Drops, which helps clean out wax and debris while removing bacteria, can help prevent this condition from worsening.

Dog Ear Smells Like Poop

A foul, fecal-like smell coming from your dog’s ears is not normal and should raise an immediate red flag. This kind of odor typically signals a severe bacterial infection—possibly one involving anaerobic bacteria, which produce particularly rancid smells as they break down tissue.

Other signs might include:

• Yellow, green, or bloody discharge

• Swelling or visible pain

• Crying or pulling away when you touch the ear

• Head tilt or loss of balance (if the infection spreads to the inner ear)

In some cases, this odor may indicate necrotic tissue (dying or dead cells inside the ear canal), which can result from untreated infections or trauma. This is a veterinary emergency. Do not attempt home treatment. Immediate professional care is needed to prevent further complications, including permanent hearing loss.

Effective Treatments and Preventive Measures

Regular Cleaning & Daily Care

Maintaining ear hygiene is crucial. Regular cleaning helps prevent wax buildup and infections. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.  Healthy ears require regular cleaning, too. Moreover, paying attention to whether there are any uncomfortable symptoms in daily life helps prevent worsening ear problems.

Puainta® Quantum Ear Cleaner Is Perfect Here!

A 2-in-1 cleansing and treatment solution, this ear cleaner is gentle and non-irritating. It helps remove earwax and debris, prevents ear infections and itching, and eliminates ear odor. The formula includes natural ingredients like chamomile oil, witch hazel extract, and calendula oil.

Addressing Underlying Causes

If allergies, parasites, or foreign bodies are causing the odor, addressing these root issues is essential. Consult with a veterinarian for appropriate treatment.

Professional Check-Ups

Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat ear issues before they become severe.

FAQ

Should Dogs' Healthy Ears Smell?

No, healthy dog ears should have minimal to no odor. A strong or unusual smell often indicates an underlying issue that may require veterinary attention.

Do Dogs' Ears Smell When Infected?

Yes, ear infections in dogs typically produce noticeable odors. The smell can vary depending on whether the infection is bacterial or fungal. 

Can You Treat a Dog's Ear Infection Without a Vet?

While some mild infections may be managed at home with proper cleaning and care, it's essential to consult a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. 

What Can I Get for My Dog's Smelly Ears?

Products like Puainta® Quantum Ear Drop and Puainta® Quantum Ear Cleaner are designed to address common causes of ear odor, such as wax buildup and infections. Regular use can help maintain ear hygiene and prevent issues.

Can I Use Baby Wipes to Clean My Dog's Ears?

It's not recommended to use baby wipes for cleaning inside a dog's ears, as they may contain ingredients that can irritate the ear canal. Instead, use products specifically formulated for canine ear care. 

Maintaining your dog's ear health is crucial for their overall well-being. Regular cleaning, monitoring for unusual odors, and using appropriate products can help prevent infections and other issues. Always consult with a veterinarian if you notice persistent or severe symptoms.