Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog shakes head, rubs ears, has brown ear gunk. Is it an infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Fox Terrier | Male | neutered

My old dog has just come off a one week course of antibiotic (human form - amoxicillin) for a tooth infection. He is occasionally shaking his head and rubbing his ears against the furniture. Inside of his ear stuck to the skin was a grey/browny pad of what appeared to be wax. I wiped it out with a swap dampened with salty water. The substance separated in the water into little globules. Is this likely to be ear mite infection? Thank you.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 17th, 2017

It's probably an ear infection, often it cannot be seen from the outside. Ear infections are very common in dogs, it is usually caused by either yeast or bacterial disease. the treatment is usually simple and straightforward, you will have to take him to the vet and get the ears checked, then a prescription ear drops will be prescribed according to the infectious agent.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on September 29th, 2017

    Poor Kammie! Based on your photo, it looks like she may have an ear infection. This is a common problem in dogs, and often causes redness, brown gunk in the ear canal, and itching or soreness. She will need prescription ear drops from the vet to treat the infection, so I would recommend taking her in for an exam as soon as you are able to.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my dog or cat shaking? When should I see a veterinarian?
Concerned your pet is shaking? Veterinarian Todd Cecil discusses common causes like hypothermia, metabolic disorders, and seizures. He recommends a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored