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My dog's ear tips are black, hard, red, and tender. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 8 years and 7 months old | 13 lbs

The ends of my 8 y/o dachshund's ear are blackening [comparable to leather] and hardening with tenderness to touch, and slight redness in appearance. I am unsure of the reason; however, what can I do to prevent worsening? What is this? please help...

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2019

Poor Dallas! You can try to put a little coconut oil on the tips twice a day to help soothe them. I am concerned he may have injured them from shaking them too much secondary to an infection or he may have vasculitis. Since it is new and seems tender, I would definitely have your vet take a look to see what the cause it. Your vet will be able to determine if there is any infection in the ear or on the tips and also get him started on the proper meds if needed to help him feel better. I hope this helps!

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