Why Ear Infections Spike in the Winter and How to Prevent Them
Cold weather can bring more than just cozy nights and holiday cheer—it can also mean more ear infections for your dog, especially during the winter season when these issues are most prevalent. Many dog parents notice their pups scratching or shaking their heads more often during winter, and there’s a reason behind it.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Why ear infections are more common in winter
Common symptoms to watch for
How to prevent ear infections before they start
Safe, at-home ear care tips
When to see your veterinarian
How routine hygiene care can help keep your dog’s ears healthy
Why Do Ear Infections Spike in Winter?
You might not expect ear infections to be a seasonal issue—but they often are. During the winter months, cold temperatures, cold air, and chilly winds can increase the risk of ear infections in dogs. Prolonged exposure to colder weather and sudden temperature drops can make your dog more susceptible to ear problems. Winter brings a perfect storm of conditions that make your dog’s ears more vulnerable.
1. Moisture and Trapped Warmth
When it’s cold outside, dogs spend more time indoors—and indoor air tends to be warm and humid, with heating systems often contributing to changes in indoor air quality. That combination of warmth and moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow in your dog’s ears. Excess moisture in the ears can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, increasing the risk of infections.
2. Less Air Circulation
If your dog wears ear-covering gear (like winter hoods or earmuffs) or has floppy ears, air circulation decreases. Using proper ear protection during winter is important to keep the ear canals and outer ear safe from moisture and debris. Less airflow means more trapped moisture and debris, increasing the risk of infection.
To protect your ears, make sure to use appropriate gear that keeps them warm and dry while allowing for some ventilation.
3. Seasonal Allergies and Dry Skin
While we often think of allergies as a spring or summer issue, indoor allergens—like dust mites, mold, and heating system debris—can flare up during winter. Dry indoor air can irritate the nasal passages and sensitive skin, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and upper respiratory infections. Allergies lead to inflammation, which can affect the ears and make infections more likely.
4. Less Frequent Bathing or Grooming
Some pup parents bathe their dogs less often in the winter, which can allow wax and debris buildup in the ears—another risk factor for infection. This buildup can contribute to fluid buildup and fluid drainage, potentially affecting the middle ear and increasing the risk of conditions like swimmer's ear.
Common Signs of a Dog Ear Infection
Dogs can’t tell us when their ears hurt, so it’s up to us to spot the symptoms early.
Look for these signs:
Frequent head shaking or ear scratching
Redness or swelling inside the ear
Unpleasant odor coming from the ear
Discharge that looks brown, yellow, or bloody
Sensitivity or whining when the ear is touched
Tilting the head or loss of balance
Muffled hearing
Ear discomfort
Ear pain
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it’s time for a vet visit. Untreated ear infections can cause pain, hearing loss, or chronic ear problems. Seeking appropriate treatment promptly can help prevent further complications and protect your dog's ear health.
How to Prevent Ear Infections in Winter
Keeping your dog’s ears clean and dry is the best defense against infections—especially when temperatures drop. Preventing infections and preventing ear infections is particularly important during the winter months, as winter ear infections are a common concern. To help protect your dog, avoid prolonged exposure to cold and moisture, which can increase the risk of ear problems.
1. Dry Ears After Baths or Outdoor Play
If your dog gets wet from snow or a bath, dry your ears thoroughly with a soft towel. To maintain ear hygiene, use a damp cloth to gently wipe only the outer ear area—avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. Keeping ears dry is important to prevent bacterial growth and infections. If excess moisture remains, consider using ear drops designed to help dry the ear canal. Moisture left behind can lead to bacterial growth.
2. Clean Ears Regularly
Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to remove excess wax and debris. Never use cotton swabs—they can push dirt deeper or damage the ear canal. Gently clean only the outer ear and avoid inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent irritation or injury.
Supporting your dog's ear health also involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which helps strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
for more information on how to
3. Check Ears Weekly
Look for redness, odor, or buildup during your weekly at-home check. Watch for signs of recurring ear infections, such as frequent discomfort or repeated symptoms, and seek personalized advice from your vet if problems persist. Catching early signs can prevent infections from developing.
4. Groom Around the Ears
Excess hair around or inside the ears can trap moisture. Regular brushing keeps air flowing and reduces risk. Be gentle when grooming around sensitive skin inside the ears, as irritation can increase the risk of infection. If you notice persistent discomfort or recurring issues, consult an ENT specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
5. Manage Allergies
If your dog has seasonal or food allergies, talk to your vet about managing symptoms. Supporting your dog's immune system with proper nutrition, supplements, and healthy habits can also help prevent infections. Controlling inflammation can greatly reduce ear problems.
Additionally, avoid secondhand smoke, as exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate your dog's ear canal and increase the risk of ear infections. Ask your vet about the benefits of a flu shot, which can help reduce respiratory infections that may lead to ear issues.
For more information on how to deal with allergies, click here.
Safe, At-Home Ear Care Routine
A simple weekly ear care routine can make all the difference:
Inspect: Gently lift the ear flap and check for dirt, redness, or odor.
Clean: Use a vet-recommended solution. Fill the ear canal lightly, massage the base for 30 seconds, and let your dog shake it out.
Wipe: Use a cotton pad or soft cloth to remove any loosened debris. if you are looking for a good option for ear wipes, check out houndswell.
Dry: Make sure the ear is completely dry before your dog heads back outside.
Keeping your dog's ears healthy also means paying attention to their eustachian tubes. These tubes help regulate ear pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear. Cold weather and pressure changes can sometimes cause eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to fluid buildup and increasing the risk of middle ear infections such as otitis media. Watch for signs of discomfort or hearing issues, as these may indicate problems with the eustachian tube or developing infections.
This routine takes just a few minutes but helps prevent pain, infection, and vet visits later.
When to See the Vet
Call your vet if you notice:
Persistent scratching or head shaking
Discharge, odor, or swelling
Scabs or sores near the ear
Symptoms lasting more than a day or two
If your dog experiences recurring ear infections or persistent symptoms, consult an ENT specialist to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications such as hearing loss.
Your veterinarian can determine if it’s a bacterial, yeast, or mite-related infection and prescribe the right treatment.
Final Thoughts
Winter is a season of cozy cuddles—but for many dogs, it’s also prime time for ear infections. By staying proactive with regular cleaning, drying, and other hygiene care, you can help your dog stay comfortable and infection-free all season long. Maintaining ear health during winter sports and cold weather activities is especially important—protect your dog's ears from loud noises, keep their ears warm, and use appropriate gear to shield them from the elements.
Healthy ears aren’t just about hygiene—they’re key to your dog’s overall comfort and well-being.
How Scenthound Can Help
At Scenthound, we specialize in routine care that keeps your dog’s ears, skin, coat, nails, and teeth healthy year-round. Our wellness-focused services include professional ear cleaning and checks to spot early signs of infection—before they become painful problems.
We help dog parents feel confident, informed, and equipped to give their pups the care they deserve. Because healthy habits make for happy dogs.