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My dog's ears are itchy and smell sour. Is it an ear infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 3 years and 6 months old

My Lab keeps scratching her ears & a sour smell

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 24th, 2018

Hello. Molly has an ear infection, but you will need to see your veterinarian to diagnose what the causative agent is & whether there is an allergic component to this. Ear infections can include the presence of a foreign body like a grass awn, or it can consist primarily of bacterial or yeast organisms. Using the wrong medications may delay healing, & if the eardrum has ruptured ( which can occur in severe infections ) even more care is needed during treatment. Hopefully, you can have Molly's ears examined soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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