Allergies/Hypersensitivities: Atopy (allergy to inhaled substances) or food allergies.
Parasites: Ear mites, ticks (pinna, canal), or fleas (in ear area, not in canal).
Foreign bodies: Dirt, grass awns, wax concretions, or other objects in ear.
Infectious diseases: Otitis externa (bacterial, fungal/yeast).
Tumors: In ear canal.
What to do: Scratching at the ears is not an emergency. Call your veterinarian during regular office hours to make an appointment.
Disclaimer: DogChannel.com’s Dog Medical Conditions are intended for educational purposes only. They are not meant to replace the expertise and experience of a professional veterinarian. Do not use the information presented here to make decisions about your dog’s ailment. If you notice changes in your dog’s health or behavior, please take your pet to the nearest veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic as soon as possible.