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My dog's ear has black crusty buildup. Is it an ear infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

hello my dog has black stuff around his ear on the outside, and i'm not sure what it is. It is crusty.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 4th, 2018

This is likely to be caused by an ear infection due to proliferation of Malassezia spp (an yeast infection basically). I would recommend an immediate check up to confirm this clinical suspicion and treat accordingly. Antibiotics ear drops will be required. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 28th, 2018

    From the pictures, it looks most like Vladimir has some ear discharge crusted in his hair, but I can't conclusively say that it isn't a pigmented mass or polyp. If this is related to ear discharge, he could be experiencing the discharge due to a bacterial or fungal ear infection, or due to ear mites (although mites are not overly common in dogs). Regardless, it would be best to take Vladimir to the vet for evaluation. If it is a mass or polyp, the vet will be able to discuss the best options for removal, whereas if it is discharge, the vet will be able to microscopically examine the debris so that appropriate medications can be started to treat an ear infection. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

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    Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 12th, 2019

    Hi, to me this look like discharge from the ear canal. It would be interesting to have a look st it under the microscope and if possible to have a swab taken from inside the ears to see what if any bacteria or yeast are present and what is the best treatment. Is Ginger scratching his ears ?

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