If your Cocker Spaniel is constantly scratching his ears, it is not a harmless habit or a quirk of the breed. Persistent ear scratching is a clear sign that something is irritating or inflaming the ear canal or the surrounding skin. Because Cocker Spaniels are especially prone to ear problems, this behaviour is extremely common—but it should never be ignored.
This article explains why Cocker Spaniels scratch their ears, how to identify the underlying cause, and what practical steps you can take to stop it.
Related guides: This article supports our Ear Problems in Spaniels hub. Next, read:
Occasional vs Persistent Ear Scratching
It is normal for a dog to scratch an ear occasionally. The concern starts when scratching becomes frequent, intense, or ongoing.
Normal behaviour:
- Infrequent scratching
- Brief and stops on its own
- No redness or discharge
Problem scratching:
- Repeated scratching throughout the day
- Rubbing ears on furniture or the floor
- Whining or pulling away when ears are touched
- Scratching that worsens over time
Persistent scratching is almost always linked to discomfort or pain.
The Most Common Cause: Ear Infections
Why Ear Infections Make Cocker Spaniels Scratch
Ear infections cause itching, inflammation, and sometimes pain inside the ear canal. Scratching is your dog’s attempt to relieve that irritation.
Cocker Spaniels are especially prone to ear infections because they have:
- Long, floppy ears that restrict airflow
- Warm, moist ear canals
- High natural wax production
These conditions allow yeast and bacteria to thrive.
Signs of an Ear Infection
Along with scratching, you may notice:
- Red or swollen ear canals
- Thick brown, yellow, or black discharge
- Strong yeasty or unpleasant smell
- Head shaking
- Sensitivity when the ear is touched
Even mild infections can cause intense itching.
Yeast Overgrowth (Very Common in Cockers)
Yeast infections are one of the most frequent reasons Cocker Spaniels scratch their ears.
Typical signs include:
- Persistent itching rather than sharp pain
- Greasy or waxy discharge
- Strong musty or “cheesy” smell
Yeast thrives in warm, damp ears and often flares up after swimming or in humid weather.
Allergies: A Major Underlying Cause
If your Cocker Spaniel’s ears keep becoming itchy, allergies are very likely involved.
How Allergies Affect the Ears
Allergies cause:
- Chronic inflammation of the ear canal
- Increased wax production
- Weakened skin defences
This leads to itchiness even when no infection is present.
Common allergy triggers include:
- Food proteins such as chicken, beef, wheat, or dairy
- Environmental allergens like pollen, grass, and dust mites
- Seasonal changes
If scratching comes and goes or affects both ears, allergies should be suspected.
Excess Wax Build-Up
Cocker Spaniels naturally produce more ear wax than most breeds.
When wax builds up it:
- Traps moisture and debris
- Feeds yeast and bacteria
- Causes pressure and irritation
This alone can cause significant itching and scratching.
Foreign Objects in the Ear
Grass seeds, dirt, and plant material are common culprits, especially in active dogs.
A foreign object causes:
- Sudden, intense scratching
- Pawing at one ear only
- Head shaking or head tilting
This usually starts shortly after a walk in long grass or woodland.
Ear Mites (More Common in Puppies)
Ear mites cause extreme itchiness and are more common in puppies or dogs in contact with other animals.
Signs include:
- Constant scratching
- Dark, crumbly discharge
- Head shaking
They require specific treatment and will not clear up without it.
Skin Problems Around the Ear
Sometimes the problem is not inside the ear canal but on the skin around it.
This can include:
- Hot spots
- Skin infections
- Contact reactions to grooming products
Scratching in these cases may appear focused around the base of the ear rather than inside it.
Why Persistent Scratching Is a Serious Problem
Repeated scratching can:
- Break the skin and cause secondary infections
- Lead to thickened, narrowed ear canals
- Increase the risk of chronic ear disease
Scratching combined with head shaking can also lead to aural haematomas, which are painful swellings of the ear flap.
What You Should Do If Your Cocker Spaniel Keeps Scratching His Ears
Step 1: Inspect the Ears
Look for:
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge
- Strong smell
- Warmth or tenderness
Compare both ears, as one may be worse than the other.
Step 2: Clean the Ears if Appropriate
If the ears look dirty but not severely painful:
- Use a suitable ear cleaner
- Clean gently
- Observe whether scratching improves over 24–48 hours
Do not use cotton buds or homemade solutions.
Step 3: Seek Treatment if Scratching Persists
If scratching:
- Continues despite cleaning
- Is intense or worsening
- Is accompanied by discharge or pain
Proper treatment is required. Repeated infections usually mean there is an underlying cause that needs addressing.
Long-Term Solutions and Prevention
Regular Ear Cleaning
- Weekly cleaning for most Cocker Spaniels
- More frequent cleaning for dogs prone to infections
Keep Ears Dry
- Dry thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Avoid leaving moisture in the ear canal
Manage Allergies
- Monitor food and environmental triggers
- Consider dietary changes if needed
Grooming
- Keep hair around the ear opening tidy
- Ensure good airflow
Final Thoughts
When a Cocker Spaniel scratches his ears repeatedly, it is a sign of irritation that should never be dismissed. Ear infections, yeast overgrowth, allergies, wax build-up, and foreign objects are the most common causes—and all are manageable when addressed early.
By paying attention to early signs, maintaining a consistent ear care routine, and dealing with underlying causes rather than just symptoms, most Cocker Spaniels can live comfortably without constant ear irritation. Persistent scratching is your dog’s way of asking for help—listening early makes all the difference.