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My dog has black earwax, head tilt, and hearing loss. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | 15 years and 9 months old | 12 lbs

My dog has built up black earwax that hasn't been cared for in several years. I've been living overseas and couldn't take him so I left him with family who rarely cared for him. He probably hasn't even had a bath in over a year. He tilts his head at an angle and I'm not sure if he can hear. What should I do?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2017

I would take Radar into a vet immediately. This build up could be a sign of an ear infection, and when they are severe enough, the infection can cause vestibular symptoms such as a head tilt. It can also cause deafness if left untreated for too long. It's best that Radar is seen by a vet now for treatment. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

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