Why does my dog have brown smelly discharge in his ears?

You might’ve noticed your pup scratching at their ear more than usual, or caught a whiff of an unpleasant odor when they nuzzle your hand. That brown, smelly discharge isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a sign something’s off with their ear health, and ignoring it could lead to bigger issues down the line. Many dogs, especially those with floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, are prone to this problem because their ear canals stay dark and moist, creating the perfect environment for trouble.

First, let’s talk about common causes. Ear infections, often from bacteria or yeast, are the top culprit. You might see your dog shaking their head a lot or avoiding touch near their ears—these are clear signs they’re in discomfort. Another cause? Ear mites, tiny parasites that irritate the ear canal and leave behind a crumbly, brown discharge. Even something as simple as leftover shampoo from a bath or too much wax buildup can lead to that smelly discharge, so regular, gentle ear cleaning is key.

It’s not just about fixing the issue—you also need to stay on top of local rules. Most places in Europe and North America require pet owners to keep their dogs healthy, and untreated ear problems could lead to pain or even hearing loss, which might be considered neglect under local animal welfare laws. If you’re unsure about the rules in your area, a quick check with your local animal control or vet’s office can help you stay compliant. Plus, a healthy dog is a happy one, and regular vet visits can catch ear issues early before they get worse.

When it comes to treating the discharge, don’t guess—always visit a vet first. They’ll examine your dog’s ears with an otoscope to find the root cause, whether it’s an infection, mites, or something else. They might prescribe medication like ear drops or oral antibiotics, and show you how to clean your dog’s ears safely at home. Avoid using cotton swabs deep in the ear canal—this can push debris further in or damage the eardrum, making the problem worse. Stick to vet-recommended cleaners and gentle wiping around the ear opening.

Prevention is easier than treatment. Get into the habit of checking your dog’s ears once a week—look for redness, swelling, or discharge, and smell for any unusual odors. After your dog swims or bathes, dry their ears gently with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. If your dog has floppy ears, lift them occasionally to let air circulate. And remember, regular vet checkups (usually once or twice a year) are part of keeping your dog healthy and following local pet care guidelines—your vet can spot early signs of ear trouble you might miss.

Dealing with brown, smelly ear discharge can be stressful, but you’re not alone. By staying alert to your dog’s behavior, cleaning their ears properly, and visiting the vet at the first sign of trouble, you can keep their ears healthy and avoid bigger issues. And by following local pet welfare laws, you’re not just doing the right thing for your dog—you’re also being a responsible member of your community. Your pup relies on you to keep them comfortable, so a little extra care for their ears goes a long way.