Grey, Itchy Ear in Young Dog – What Could Be Causing It?

by Lisa
(Chico TX, USA)

Reader Question: Grey, Itchy Ear in Young Dog – What Could Be Causing It?

Grey Discoloration and Hair Loss on the Ear with Intense Scratching

Reader's Question:

Question from Lisa:

Inside of my dog’s ear is grey. He scratches continuously and whines. He’s started losing hair on the back of his ear also. He is a one-year-old male corgi mix.

What the Photos Show and What May Be Happening

Lisa, thank you for providing clear photos. From the images, the inside of your dog’s ear appears thickened and greyish in color with areas of irritation and hair loss on the outer portion of the ear flap. The skin looks inflamed and possibly chronically irritated. Given the constant scratching and whining, this is likely uncomfortable and possibly painful for him.

Most Common Causes

• Yeast Ear Infection: One of the most common causes of grey or dark discoloration inside the ear, especially with itching and odor. Yeast thrives in warm, moist ear canals.
• Bacterial Ear Infection: Can cause redness, discharge, pain, and thickening of the ear tissue.
• Ear Mites: More common in puppies, but still possible. Usually causes intense itching and dark debris inside the ear.
• Allergies: Environmental allergies frequently cause chronic ear inflammation in young dogs. Corgi mixes can be prone to allergic skin disease.
• Chronic Scratching Trauma:
  Hair loss on the back of the ear often results from repeated scratching and rubbing, which can eventually lead to thickened, darkened skin.

What You Can Do Now

• Avoid Using Cotton Swabs Deep in the Ear: This can push debris further down and worsen irritation.
• Use a Gentle Veterinary Ear Cleaner: A proper dog ear cleansing solution may help temporarily, but it will not cure an infection.
• Prevent Further Scratching: If possible, use an e-collar to reduce trauma while you arrange a veterinary visit.
• Watch for Head Shaking: Persistent head shaking can lead to an ear hematoma, which is a painful blood-filled swelling of the ear flap.

When to See a Veterinarian

• If there is continued whining, pain, or head shaking
• If the ear smells strongly or has discharge
• If the skin continues to thicken or darken
• If swelling develops in the ear flap

This presentation is most consistent with an ear infection, possibly secondary to allergies. Ear infections typically require prescription medication to fully resolve. The sooner it’s treated, the more comfortable your dog will be and the less likely it will become a chronic issue.

All the best to you and your dog,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Dog Health Guide

Please note: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. It does not replace the advice of your pet’s veterinarian, who is the only professional qualified to diagnose and treat your pet. Always consult a veterinarian for professional medical advice about your pet’s health.