Ear mites can also be the cause of ear infections in your dog. If mites are present, they may have coffee ground looking clumps, thick black or red/brown crusts and scratches and cuts in and around their ears.
Why is there black gunk in my dog's ear?
Black gunk in a dog's ear is often a sign of an ear mite infestation, but it could also indicate an ear infection. Other possibilities include wax buildup, complications from allergies, dirt or debris, or a flea infestation. Clean the ears routinely and be sure any problems are examined by a vet.
How do you get black gunk out of a dog's ear?
To clean the ears, tilt your dog's head downward with one hand and squirt a gentle cleanser recommended by your veterinarian into the ear, filling the canal. Holding the ear closed, give it a nice massage, really squishing the cleanser around in there. That softens any gunk inside.
What causes black ear wax?
Dark brown or black colored earwax is typically older, so its color comes from the dirt and bacteria it has trapped. Adults tend to have darker, harder earwax. Dark brown earwax that is tinged with red may signal a bleeding injury. Light brown, orange or yellow earwax is healthy and normal.
How do you tell if your dog has ear mites or just dirty ears?
Symptoms of ear mites in dogs and cats?1Strong odor coming from the ears.2Black or brown waxy secretions from the ears.3Inflammation of the ear, including redness and the ear becoming hot to the touch.4Debris in the ear canal that looks like coffee grounds.5Excessively itching, scratching or rubbing of her ears.
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