Stinky, Itchy Ears? Here’s How to Help Your Dog

If your dog keeps shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or giving off that unmistakable stinky smell, chances are they’re dealing with an ear infection. I see it all the time, and let me tell you—these infections can be painful and frustrating for both pets and owners. The good news is, there’s a lot you can do at home to help soothe your dog’s ears, treat the infection, and even prevent future flare-ups.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the signs to watch for, why ear infections happen, and my step-by-step remedies—from gentle cleaning to natural anti-yeast treatments. Plus, I’ll share tips for addressing underlying causes like allergies, so your dog can stay healthy and comfortable long-term.

Natural Ear Relief: Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash For Dogs

And for regular ear care, I’ve created something special: Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash For Dogs. Our Natural Ear Relief Wash is more than just a cleaner—it’s a gentle, soothing blend packed with the power of nature. It eliminates wax, dirt, and odors while conditioning and moisturizing your dog’s delicate ear skin. That means healthier ears, less itching, and a happier, more comfortable pup.

Stinky, Smelly Ears? My Best Ear Infection Remedies for Dogs

Ear infections are painful—and for dogs with recurring ear issues, it can be downright miserable. One of the most effective ways to prevent and manage ear infections is regular ear cleaning. Today, I’m sharing my top remedies to help your dog feel comfortable again.

We now have a new Dog Ear Wash made with natural ingredients. It’s alcohol-free, so it won’t sting or irritate your pet’s ears. If your dog has ongoing ear issues, I recommend trying:
Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash for Dogs

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Ear Infections in Dogs: Signs to Watch For

You’ll usually notice your dog shaking their head or scratching their ears. Foul-smelling discharge—black, yellow, or brown—is a common sign. Red, tender ears are another warning signal.

Common signs include:

• Shaking the head

• Scratching at the ears

• Redness around the ear flap or ear canal entrance

• Discharge from the ear canal

• Pain when the ear is touched

• Thickening of the ear canal

• Rubbing the face or ear on furniture or the ground

• Excessive paw licking (often related to allergies)

• Itching or licking other parts of the body (also allergy-related)

In severe cases, if the eardrum ruptures, infections can spread to the middle and inner ear, causing:

• Head tilt

• Abnormal walking or circling

• Falling over

• Pain when eating or opening the mouth fully

Causes of Ear Infections

Ear infections are extremely common in dogs, often linked to underlying allergies. Other causes include:

• Water trapped in the ear after bathing or swimming

• Large, floppy ears (like basset hounds) that trap moisture and reduce air circulation

Types of infections:

• Yeast infections: Usually black discharge, often allergy-related

• Bacterial infections: Commonly caused by staphylococcus; rarer infections may involve pseudomonas

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Step 1: Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

Cleaning is the first step to relief. White vinegar (acetic acid) works well to remove debris and kill yeast and bacteria—but don’t use it on red, open wounds, as it will sting.

How to clean safely:

1. Use a soothing topical first, like olive oil with Vitamin E.

2. Dilute the vinegar with water or green tea (80:20 ratio).

3. Use a syringe from your pharmacy and add 5ml per 20 lbs of body weight into the affected ear.

A gentle, alcohol-free ear wash is ideal for regular cleaning, like Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash.

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Step 2: Treating the Infection

Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV is naturally antibacterial and antifungal. Mix an 80:20 solution of ACV and warm water or green tea. Apply 5–10 drops twice daily for 7–10 days.

Sweet Almond Oil & Lavender

For very inflamed ears where ACV is painful:

• 2 tablespoons almond oil

• 10 drops lavender oil

Burow’s Solution

Aluminum acetate in water works as an astringent to reduce swelling, relieve allergies, and inhibit bacterial growth. Apply 5–6 drops in each ear twice daily.

Anti-Yeast Medications

If your dog has black, waxy debris with a sweet smell, it’s likely a yeast infection. Canesten (Clotrimazole) and Monistat can help. Apply twice daily for 7–10 days.

DIY Ear Cream

Combine:

• 1 teaspoon Canesten

• 1 teaspoon 1% Hydrocortisone

Mix into a white cream. For ear infections: apply 1/4 inch to your finger, seat it into the ear canal, and massage the base. Do this twice daily for 5 days.

Newest Anti-Yeast Ear Recipe

• 1 cup green tea

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)

Use as a flush first, then apply 5 drops per ear twice daily for 5 days.

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Step 3: Treat the Underlying Cause (Allergies)

Recurring ear infections are often tied to allergies. Supporting your dog’s immune system can help:

• Bioflavonoids (Quercetin): 50mg per 15 lbs daily. Our Bioavailable Quercetin works great.

• Herbal antihistamines (Stinging Nettle): 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs daily.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Krill Oil/Fish Oil): Krill 500mg/20 lbs daily, Fish Oil 1000mg/20 lbs daily. Anti-inflammatory and allergy-supportive.

 

Heal Your Pet at Home

Regular ear cleaning, treating the infection, and addressing the root cause are essential for dogs with recurring ear problems. Beatrice, for example, receives a topical ear remedy plus daily Quercetin—and she’s thriving.

Our New Dog Ear Wash is a game-changer:

• Alcohol-free and gentle

• Eliminates wax, dirt, and odor

• Reduces itching

• Moisturizes and protects the ear’s natural barrier

With this natural solution, your dog gets cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable ears.

CLICK TO GET A FREE COPY OF MY E-BOOK!

Natural Ear Relief: Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash For Dogs

And for regular ear care, I’ve created something special: Dr. Jones’ Natural Ear Relief Wash For Dogs. Our Natural Ear Relief Wash is more than just a cleaner—it’s a gentle, soothing blend packed with the power of nature. It eliminates wax, dirt, and odors while conditioning and moisturizing your dog’s delicate ear skin. That means healthier ears, less itching, and a happier, more comfortable pup.