My dog's red ear has dark wax and discharge. Cleaning bothers him.
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 8 months and 15 days old | 80 lbs
Looking for help with our dogs ears...he has some dark colored ear wax and discharge and his ear is red as far down as we can see into it. We used a mild cleaning solution but seemed to really bother him.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 26th, 2019
Poor Roadie! Dark-colored waxy debris and redness in the ear canal are both common signs of an ear infection. Roadie will need prescription ear meds from your veterinarian to treat this, so I would recommend taking him in today for an exam. In the meantime, if using the cleaning solution seems to make the ear more irritated, I would just leave it alone until you're able to see the vet.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 18th, 2019
Normal ear cleaning should not cause this much redness. An existing ear infection can cause the skin to be extra sensitive and that could allow this. If you were too rough, that could do it too. Lastly, a reaction to the cleaner could also do it. I recommend to have Cricket examined by the veterinarian and checked for an ear infection. It's best to play it safe. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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