Why does my dog's crusty ear scab keep coming back after treatment?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 65 lbs
My dog cooper has had a growth if you will in his ear. It's a crusty scab and I'd say it's about a centimeter in depth when it grows. Hes been to the vet and they removed the scab and put ottomax ointment on it. The scab does not go away, it constantly grows back. Hes had it for years. We have also given him allergy injections to see if that would help but it didnt. He has a smaller one on the other ear but it's nothing compared to this one ear. The pic included is after I took the scab off.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 5th, 2019
Ouch! If you haven't already, your may want to have a biopsy done of the scab or the affected area and then sent to a lab. This can help determine what is going on with the cells there (whether its abnormal or just poor healing) and can also be checked for bacteria, yeast, etc that may be slowing healing and need treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 2nd, 2021
Hi there, This appears to be a simple, uninfected wound and scab. If it begins to swell or drain fluid those would be reasons to have him checked by his vet. Otherwise I expect it will heal on its own within a couple of weeks. As a warning, ear tips and margins tend to be very bloody so if he accidentally scratches it open before its healed, it may be a bit of a mess, but its not a reason to panic will clot on its own again with time and gentle pressure. Hope this helps. Have a good evening.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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