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My Golden Retriever has ear gunk & a scab. Is it an ear infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 2 years old | 60 lbs

Wondering what this zit like infected area is and also the q tips are what came out of his ear, curious if he has an ear infection. He’s a golden retriever. 2 years old.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 7th, 2017

With that amount of dirt and wax from his ears, it is possible it is ear mites, a bacterial or yeast infection, or just dirt. If there is an odor, any redness or he is shaking or scratching his head, then I would get his ears checked to make sure. The scab may be a pustules from a bite. If it is the only one, then you can apply some cortisone cream and alternate it with Neosporin. If it does not improve over the next 2 days, then it will need to be checked by your regular vet.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 4th, 2017

    Dry skin and scabs on the ears along with itching could be a sign of allergies, an ear infection, some types of mites, or autoimmune diseases. I would recommend having Marley examined by your veterinarian. They will probably perform an otoscopic exam to look inside his ears and might recommend taking a sample to check for mites or secondary skin infection. Your veterinarian might recommend starting an antibiotic if there seems to be evidence of an infection, or might prescribe topical medications.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on August 1st, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Shaking is a general sign and can be seen with several things that go from just being cold or nervous to being an indication of pain or discomfort. If Chico is otherwise fine, then it would be ok to monitor him for now. However, if at any point he appears to be in discomfort or stops eating or showing any other concerning symptoms, it may be best to have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment. Hopefully it is not anything serious. The scab that he has in his ear is likely a focus of infection or perhaps from a traumatic injury. Sometimes these can resolve on their own and this may be the case with him especially since it already is partially healed with a scab. Good luck and have a good day!

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