It can be caused by a scratch, pimple, or bug bite, too. Signs of an outer ear infection can include: Your middle ear is an air-filled chamber that's separated from your outer ear by your eardrum.

Strong, unusual, or particularly unpleasant odors often serve as warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Ear infections rank among the most common causes of problematic ear wax odors.

Dr. Rebekah Hartfield explains the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ear infections in dogs, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and veterinary care.