Ear Hematomas in Dogs

What Are Ear Hematomas in Dogs?

Dog ear hematomas (also called auricular or aural hematomas) occur when blood vessels rupture inside the ear flap, or pinna.

As blood accumulates between the skin and cartilage, the ear becomes swollen, warm, and often painful. This collection of blood forms what is known as an aural hematoma.

Symptoms of Ear Hematomas in Dogs

The most noticeable sign of a dog ear hematoma is sudden swelling of the ear flap.

If your dog develops an ear hematoma, the ear flap (pinna) may appear:

• Swollen
• Red
• Warm to the touch
• Tender or painful

The swelling may involve the entire ear flap or only a portion of it. If an ear infection is present, you may also notice a foul odor or discharge from the ear.

Most ear hematomas affect only one ear, but in some cases, both ears can be involved.

Causes of Ear Hematomas in Dogs

Ear hematomas in dogs most commonly develop secondary to ear infections that cause irritation and excessive head shaking.

When a dog shakes their head forcefully, small blood vessels inside the ear flap (pinna) can rupture, allowing blood to collect between the skin and cartilage.

Other conditions that trigger head shaking and increase the risk of a dog ear hematoma include:

• Ear mites
• Foreign material lodged in the ear
• Allergies (environmental or food-related)

Less commonly, ear hematomas may be associated with:

• Allergic skin disease
• Immune-mediated disorders
• Trauma to the ear
• Blood clotting abnormalities

Identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential to prevent recurrence.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Ear Hematomas in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose a dog ear hematoma through a physical examination of the affected ear.

Your veterinarian will examine your dog’s ear canal using an otoscope to look for signs of infection, mites, foreign material, or inflammation.

An ear swab is often collected for cytology, which involves examining the sample under a microscope to detect bacteria and/or yeast.

Treatment of Ear Hematomas in Dogs

Treatment of a dog ear hematoma focuses on reducing swelling and preventing recurrence.

Addressing underlying causes—such as ear infections, ear mites, or allergies—is also essential to prevent the hematoma from returning.

Both medical and surgical options are available, depending on the severity of the swelling and the underlying cause.

Medications

In mild cases, medication may be used. This can include:

• Steroids to reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics if infection is present
• Pain relievers for comfort

These treatments may also be used alongside surgical procedures. 

Surgical Treatment

Surgical drainage is commonly recommended when the swelling is large, painful, obstructing the ear canal, or likely to cause permanent ear deformity.

During surgery, the hematoma is opened and drained under anesthesia. However, simple drainage alone often results in recurrence, meaning the swelling can return and require repeat treatment.

To reduce recurrence, veterinarians typically place a drain to allow continued fluid removal or make a surgical incision and place multiple sutures through the ear flap to prevent fluid reaccumulation and promote proper healing.

Recovery and Prevention of Ear Hematomas in Dogs

Dog Ear Hematoma Surgery Recovery

Recovery after dog ear hematoma surgery focuses on protecting the ear, preventing infection, and monitoring healing.

After surgery, your veterinarian may place a bandage over your dog’s ear and head and will recommend an Elizabethan collar (E-collar). At home, you may need to administer oral medications or apply ear medications through a small opening in the bandage.

Carefully monitor the bandage for slipping, swelling, discharge, or foul odor. A follow-up appointment is required so your veterinarian can evaluate healing and remove sutures or drains if needed.

The E-collar must remain in place to prevent scratching or head shaking, which can cause trauma, disrupt stitches, or lead to recurrence.

In some cases, even with appropriate treatment, mild scarring may cause slight deformity of the ear flap.

Prevention of Dog Ear Hematomas

Preventing ear infections and controlling ear irritation are the best ways to prevent ear hematomas.

Because most hematomas develop secondary to head shaking, prompt treatment of underlying ear conditions is essential.

If you notice any of the following signs, schedule a veterinary exam:

• Frequent head shaking
• Excessive ear scratching
• Redness, swelling, or pain
• Foul odor from the ear
• Crusting or discharge