Dog Ear Infections After Swimming: Signs & Prevention

If your dog loves the pool, lake, or beach, there's one warm-weather problem worth watching for: ear infections after swimming.

Water that gets trapped in a dog's ear canal creates a warm, moist environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive. Some dogs are especially prone to these infections, but a simple post-swim routine can help reduce the risk.

Here's what to watch for and how to help keep your dog's ears dry and comfortable after swimming.

Can Dogs Get Ear Infections From Swimming?

Yes. Swimming can increase a dog's risk of an ear infection when moisture remains trapped inside the ear canal.

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, excessive moisture from swimming is one of the factors that can predispose dogs to otitis externa, or inflammation of the external ear canal.

When the ear stays damp, it can create an environment where bacteria and yeast are more likely to overgrow.

Swimming isn't the only potential cause. Allergies, excessive wax, foreign objects, ear anatomy, and other underlying conditions can also contribute to ear problems.

Signs of an Ear Infection After Swimming

It's normal for a dog to shake off immediately after getting out of the water. But if your dog keeps shaking their head after swimming, pay attention.

According to the American Kennel Club's guide to dog ear infections, common signs can include:

• Frequent head shaking
• Scratching or pawing at the ears
• Redness or swelling
• Dark or excessive discharge
• Unusual odor
• Sensitivity when the ear is touched
• Rubbing the head against furniture or the floor

If these symptoms continue or worsen, contact your veterinarian.

Are Some Dogs More Prone to Swimmer's Ear?

Any dog can develop an ear infection, but some may be more susceptible.

Dogs with long or floppy ears, narrow ear canals, lots of hair around the ears, allergies, or a history of recurring ear infections may need extra attention after swimming.

Frequent swimmers may also benefit from having a consistent post-swim routine.

How to Prevent Dog Ear Infections After Swimming

You can't prevent every ear infection, but keeping your dog's ears dry can help reduce one common risk factor.

Dry Their Ears

After swimming or bathing, gently dry your dog's ear flaps and the parts of the ear you can easily reach with a clean, soft towel.

Don't push towels, cotton swabs, or other objects into the ear canal. VCA Animal Hospitals recommends drying dogs' ears after swimming or bathing and avoiding cotton swabs, which can push debris farther into the canal.

Check Their Ears

Take a quick look while you're drying them. Healthy ears shouldn't have significant redness, discharge, swelling, or a strong odor.

Knowing what your dog's ears normally look and smell like makes changes easier to spot.

Ask About an Ear-Drying Solution

If your dog swims frequently or has a history of ear infections, ask your veterinarian whether a dog-safe ear cleaner or drying solution should be part of their routine.

More cleaning isn't always better. Over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal, so follow your veterinarian's recommendations for your dog.

Be Careful During Baths, Too

Swimming isn't the only way water gets into your dog's ears. Avoid spraying water directly into the ears during baths, and dry them afterward.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Has Water in Their Ear?

If your dog starts shaking their head after swimming, let them shake naturally. Then use a clean towel to gently dry the ear flap and the areas you can safely reach.

Avoid inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal or using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or other homemade solutions unless your veterinarian specifically recommends them.

If the head shaking continues or you notice redness, odor, discharge, or discomfort, contact your veterinarian.

When Should You See a Veterinarian?

An occasional head shake after swimming isn't necessarily cause for concern. Persistent symptoms are different.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog has:

• Ongoing or intense head shaking
• Frequent scratching
• Red or swollen ears
• Strong odor or discharge
• Pain when the ear is touched
• Symptoms that are getting worse

More concerning signs, including a head tilt, balance problems, unusual eye movements, or significant pain, should receive prompt veterinary attention.

Because bacterial infections, yeast, allergies, foreign objects, and other ear conditions can cause similar symptoms, your veterinarian can determine what's actually happening and recommend the right treatment.

Dog Ear Infections After Swimming: FAQs

Why is my dog shaking their head after swimming?

Dogs naturally shake their heads to remove water. If the shaking continues or comes with scratching, redness, odor, discharge, or pain, there may be irritation or an ear infection.

How do I get water out of my dog's ears?

Let your dog shake naturally, then gently dry the ear flap and visible areas with a soft towel. Don't insert anything into the ear canal. Ask your veterinarian about an ear-drying solution if your dog swims frequently.

Can pool or lake water cause ear infections in dogs?

Both can contribute. The primary concern is moisture remaining inside the ear canal, whether your dog was swimming in a pool, lake, or another body of water.

For pool-loving pups, the AKC also recommends rinsing dogs with fresh water after swimming in chlorinated pools and drying their ears thoroughly afterward.

Should I clean my dog's ears every time they swim?

Not necessarily. Drying the ears is a good post-swim habit, but how often you should clean them depends on your dog. Over-cleaning can cause irritation, so ask your veterinarian what routine is appropriate.

Keep Your Dog's Ears Dry After Water Fun

Swimming can be a great way for dogs to stay active and enjoy warmer weather. You don't necessarily need to keep a water-loving dog on dry land just because ear infections are a possibility.

Instead, make drying and checking their ears part of your post-swim routine. A few extra minutes after the pool, lake, or beach can help you notice irritation early and keep your dog ready for their next adventure.

For more ways to support your dog through every season, explore more dog health and wellness resources from Pet Releaf.