Pool days, backyard play, and weekend water fun are part of life for many families in Richmond, TX. But when your dog spends time swimming or getting wet, moisture can become trapped inside the ears and create the perfect environment for irritation, bacteria, or yeast to develop.

For pet parents in Richmond, Harvest Green, Aliana, Mission Bend, Sugar Land, Four Corners, and nearby communities, knowing what to watch for after swimming can help keep your furry friend comfortable all summer long.

Why Swimming Can Lead to Ear Problems in Dogs

Dogs can get ear infections after swimming, especially if water stays inside the ear canal. Warm, damp ears can make it easier for yeast and bacteria to grow, which may lead to inflammation, discomfort, and infection.

This type of infection is often called otitis externa, which refers to inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, diagnosis may involve examining the ear canal and checking ear discharge to better understand what is causing the problem.

Some dogs are more prone to ear infections than others, including dogs with:

• Floppy ears
• Hairy ear canals
• A history of allergies
• Frequent swimming or bathing
• Recurring skin or ear issues

Still, any dog can develop an ear infection if moisture, debris, allergies, or underlying irritation are involved.

Signs Your Dog May Have an Ear Infection

After a swim, pay close attention to your dog’s behavior. Ear infections can start subtly, but they often become more uncomfortable over time.

Common signs include:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at one or both ears
• Redness inside the ear
• A bad or yeasty odor
• Brown, yellow, or waxy discharge
• Sensitivity when the ears are touched
• Rubbing the ear against furniture or the floor
• Swelling or warmth around the ear

The Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences notes that symptoms such as head shaking, scratching, odor, discharge, redness, swelling, and pain may point to a canine ear infection. If you notice these signs, a veterinary exam is the safest next step.

Why Richmond-Area Dogs May Be at Higher Risk During Summer

The warm, humid weather in the Richmond area can make summer especially tricky for dogs prone to ear problems. Between backyard pools, bathing after outdoor play, and damp conditions after rain, dogs may have more opportunities for moisture to stay trapped in their ears.

In nearby areas like Harvest Green, Aliana, Mission Bend, Sugar Land, and Four Corners, many dogs also spend more time outdoors during late spring and early summer. That extra activity is wonderful for exercise and bonding, but it also means pet parents should be more intentional about checking their dog’s ears after water play.

Additionally, allergies can play a role. Environmental allergens such as pollen and outdoor mold may irritate the skin and ears, making some dogs more vulnerable to recurring ear infections. For pets with itchy skin, ear discomfort, or frequent flare-ups, Embrace Veterinary Care offers pet dermatology and allergy services to help identify and manage the underlying cause.

How to Help Prevent Ear Infections After Swimming

A few simple habits can make a big difference after your dog enjoys the water. While not every ear infection can be prevented, regular ear checks and gentle drying can help reduce your dog’s risk.

Try these tips after swimming or bathing:

• Dry your dog’s ears gently after water activities.
• Use only veterinarian-approved ear cleaners.
• Avoid pushing cotton swabs deep into the ear canal.
• Check your dog’s ears weekly for odor, redness, or discharge.
• Keep hair around the ear opening trimmed if recommended by your veterinarian or groomer.
• Schedule a vet visit if your dog has frequent ear problems.

The team at VCA Animal Hospitals recommends drying a dog’s ears after swimming or bathing and using a veterinarian-approved cleaner when appropriate. However, it is also important not to overclean, since using the wrong products or cleaning an already painful ear may make irritation worse.

When Your Dog Needs Veterinary Care

If your dog is shaking their head constantly, scratching, crying when touched, or has odor or discharge from the ear, it is time to schedule an exam. Ear infections rarely go away on their own, and waiting too long can allow the problem to become more painful.

At Embrace Veterinary Care, our team can examine your dog’s ears and recommend the right next steps. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, care may include an ear exam, ear cytology, professional ear cleaning, medication, follow-up care, or an allergy evaluation for recurring ear infections.

Because different causes require different treatments, it is best to avoid guessing or using leftover medications. If your pet needs additional testing to understand what is causing ongoing discomfort, our pet diagnostic services can help guide a more accurate treatment plan.

For dogs with recurring ear infections, wellness visits are also a great time to discuss prevention, allergies, grooming habits, and swimming routines. Our wellness and prevention services are designed to support your pet’s long-term comfort and overall health.

Helping Your Dog Enjoy the Water Safely

Swimming can be a fun and healthy activity for many dogs, but wet ears need a little extra attention. By drying your dog’s ears, watching for early symptoms, and scheduling care when something seems off, you can help prevent a small irritation from turning into a painful infection.

If your dog has been swimming and you notice head shaking, scratching, redness, odor, or discharge, Embrace Veterinary Care is here to help. We proudly care for pets in Richmond, TX, and nearby communities including Harvest Green, Aliana, Mission Bend, Sugar Land, and Four Corners. To help your furry friend feel better and get back to enjoying summer safely, request an appointment with our compassionate veterinary team.