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What causes my dog's smelly, itchy ears with dark, crumbly gunk?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 18 years old | 30 lbs

"My dog's ears have a terrible odor. What could it be?" "My dog has been scratching his ears. The ears have dark, crumbly material in them. What should I do? is there a solution or drops that o can use to clean the ears?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 27th, 2018

Hi. Your pet most likely has an ear infection or ear mites. You can purchase ear cleaner from pet stores and clean with a cotton ball soaked with the cleaner. But an ear cleaner alone would cure an infection or ear mites.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi. Your pet most likely has an ear infection or ear mites. You can purchase ear cleaner from pet stores and clean with a cotton ball soaked with the cleaner But an ear cleaner alone would cure an infection or ear mites.

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    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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