Why Your Labradoodle Has Ear Trouble (And How to Fix It)

(3 minutes read)

Photo credits : Unsplash

Labradoodles are lovable, smart, and full of energy. But if you’ve noticed your dog shaking its head, scratching its ears, or acting strangely, an ear infection might be the culprit. These adorable curly-haired pups are more prone to ear issues due to their floppy ears and dense fur. The good news? With the right knowledge, you can catch and treat an infection early — and even prevent it from coming back.

Let’s dive into this quick, helpful guide to understanding Labradoodle ear infections — including causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Why Labradoodles Are Prone to Ear Infections

Labradoodles often inherit their Poodle parent’s curly coat and the Labrador’s floppy ears. This combination can trap moisture and limit airflow inside the ear canal, creating a warm, humid environment — the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, yeast, or even mites.

Common causes include:

• Trapped moisture from swimming or bathing
  
  

• Wax buildup and poor ventilation
  
  

• Allergies (food or environmental)
  
  

• Foreign bodies like grass seeds
  
  

• Ear mites or fungal infections
  
  

Signs Your Labradoodle May Have an Ear Infection

If your Labradoodle is acting out of the ordinary, here are the key symptoms to watch for:

• Frequent head shaking or tilting
  
  

• Constant ear scratching
  
  

• Red, inflamed, or smelly ears
  
  

• Yellow, brown, or bloody discharge
  
  

• Sensitivity when ears are touched
  
  

• Loss of balance or unusual walking
  
  

Even a mild infection can worsen quickly if ignored, so early detection is key.

What an Infected Ear Looks Like

A healthy Labradoodle ear should be clean, pale pink, and odorless. An infected one often appears:

• Red or dark pink inside
  
  

• Swollen or warm to the touch
  
  

• With visible discharge
  
  

• Foul-smelling
  
  

It’s always a good idea to check both ears — even if your dog only shows symptoms in one.

How to Treat a Labradoodle Ear Infection at Home (Mild Cases)

If the infection seems mild and your dog is still eating, playing, and acting mostly normal, you can try these home remedies:

1. Clean the Ear Gently

Use a vet-approved dog ear cleaning solution (never water or alcohol). Drop the solution into the ear and massage gently. 

2. Dry the Ear Thoroughly

After cleaning or bathing, always dry your dog’s ears with a soft cloth. Moisture left inside can worsen the infection.

3. Apply Natural Remedies (Optional)

• Vinegar (diluted with normal water) may help in maintain normal pH level
  
  

• Coconut oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties

Photo credits : Unsplash

When to See the Vet

If your Labradoodle shows severe symptoms like fever, loss of balance, or bleeding, or if home treatment doesn’t help within 48 hours, it’s time to consult your vet. They might:

• Prescribe antibiotic or antifungal ear drops
  
  

• Perform a deep ear cleaning
  
  

• Recommend changes in diet or grooming routines
  
  

Chronic infections might also indicate underlying allergies that require long-term care.

Preventing Ear Infections in Labradoodles

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of vet bills! Keep your Labradoodle’s ears healthy by:

• Regular cleaning (once a week or as recommended)
  
  

• Drying ears thoroughly after water activities
  
  

• Trimming hair around the ears to increase airflow
  
  

• Checking ears weekly for signs of redness and odor
  
  

• Feeding a balanced diet to support immune health

Grooming Tips to Avoid Infections

Since Labradoodles have dense, curly fur, routine grooming helps minimize moisture and debris:

• Use dog-specific clippers to carefully trim excess hair in and around the ear canal
  
  

• Avoid pushing hair or debris deeper into the ear
  
  

• Ask a groomer to include ear cleaning in regular sessions
  
  

Recommended Ear Care Products

To help maintain healthy ears, consider these Labradoodle-friendly products:

• Vet-approved ear cleaners (alcohol-free)
  
  

• Ear drying powders for after baths
  
  

• Antibacterial drops for maintenance
  
  

• Gentle grooming wipes for quick touch-ups
  
  

And don’t forget: your dog’s diet plays a big role in skin and ear health. Choose high-quality, allergy-friendly food if needed.

15% OFF on All Dog Products – Limited Time Only!

Whether you’re restocking on ear wipes, buying a new grooming kit, or grabbing fun toys and leashes, enjoy 15% OFF on all dog merchandise.
Just use code "15%Blog" at checkout on your next purchase.

👉 Great health starts with the right tools — and a little savings never hurts!

Final Thoughts

Labradoodles are joyful companions, but their floppy, furry ears need extra care. By keeping a close eye on early symptoms, cleaning regularly, and knowing when to call the vet, you can protect your pup from painful ear infections.

Remember: a clean, dry ear is a happy ear.