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Dog's red, itchy, scabby ear: Is it infected or can I use Neosporin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 11 lbs

Hello, I have been out of town and I just got back and My dog has been itching and rubbing his ear against the carpet and when my sister bathed him Monday she noticed his ear really red and the following day the scap started to form now it is yellow. I’m not sure if this is a rug burn or if now it has turned into an infection. Am I allowed to put Neosporin ? Or something else ? Thank you

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 21st, 2018

I would suspect that Augie has an ear infection leading him to itching and rub his eat against the carpet, thus causing the scab you now see. I would take him into the vet today for this problem. Ear infections are caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria in dogs, and the cause of the ear infection needs to be diagnosed so he can be prescribed the correct medication. While at the vet, they can treat the scab as well. I would refrain from putting Neosprin on it, you don't want any to get into his ear, it's starting to heal if there is a scab, and it won't do anything to help him if he does have an ear infection. I hope this helps!

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