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Why is my dog whining and digging at his ear? Is it an an infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 8 months and 19 days old | 19.4 lbs

Somethings wrong with his ear! He keeps whining and digging at it.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2018

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 Bruiser to the vet and get the ears checked, then a prescription ear drops will be prescribed according to the infectious agent.

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 17th, 2020

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Summer might have an ear infection. If you have ear cleaner given to you by a veterinarian you can try cleaning the ears once to see if it offers her some relief. If the digging and whining continues, I recommend taking her to a vet to determine what kind of infection she has and the best medications to treat it. Do not use the cleaner more than twice per week as you can cause more damage to the ears. If you don't have a cleaner from a vet, I would take Summer in now to get an appropriate cleaner and medication. Good luck and kisses to Summer!

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