Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog shakes his head and has black goo in his ear. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Brittany | Male | unneutered | 50 lbs

My dog shakes his head and has black tar goo in his ear

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 10th, 2018

Hello. I am so sorry that Buddy is having problems with his ears. Shaking & the discharge are all indications of an ear infection from bacteria or yeast organisms, inflammation from allergies ( food or inhalant ), or ear mites. Your veterinarian can look in the ears & obtain samples to examine under the microscope. Depending on what is seen will dictate treatment to clear up the problem quickly. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored