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My dog's ear hardened after draining, blood clotted. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 128 lbs

I drained my dogs ear a few times and the last time I was not able to get a lot of blood because his ear has hardened. Looks like the blood coagulated, is that a good thing?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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

Veterinarian

Published on January 16th, 2019

The blood is clotting and slowly will be reabsorbed. If Bonbon is shaking his head or scratching the ears the aural hematoma will probably come back. I would suggest to treat possible underlying otitis and leave the ear as it is now, without draining. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any scratching.

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