Dog’s ears feeling warm? Find out if it’s just a cozy quirk or something more—get the answers you need right here!
Dog’s ears feeling warm? Find out if it’s just a cozy quirk or something more—get the answers you need right here!
Ever touched your dog’s ears and wondered, Why do they feel so warm? Whether it’s after a long walk, during playtime, or even when they’re just lounging around, those warm ears can make you curious. Are they a sign of something more serious, or just part of your dog’s normal routine? Lets dive in to know why my dog’s ears are warm?
Warm ears in dogs are usually normal and can be due to increased blood flow, which helps regulate their body temperature. However, if your dog’s ears feel excessively hot, it could indicate a fever or infection. Allergies, ear infections, or inflammation might also cause warmth. If your dog shows other symptoms like discomfort or excessive scratching, it’s best to consult a vet.
In most cases, warm ears are entirely harmless, but there are situations where it could signal an underlying issue. Keep reading to distinguish normal temperature fluctuations from potential health concerns, and what steps you can take to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
Why Are My Dog’s Ears are Warm?
1. Fever or Illness
While warm ears are often harmless, they can sometimes be a sign of fever or illness. A fever in dogs is typically indicated by a body temperature above 103°F (39.4°C). If you notice that your dog’s ears are consistently warmer than usual and they are showing other signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or changes in behavior, it could be a sign that your dog is unwell.
A simple way to check is by using a rectal thermometer to measure their core temperature. If their temperature exceeds the normal range, it’s time to contact your veterinarian for further evaluation.
2. Ear Infections
Another possible reason for warm ears is an ear infection. Dogs, especially those with floppy ears or long hair, are prone to ear infections. Warm ears, combined with symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, odor, or your dog scratching or rubbing their ears frequently, could indicate an ear infection.
Ear infections can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or even parasites like ear mites. If left untreated, they can become quite painful for your dog, so it’s essential to seek veterinary attention if you suspect an infection.
3. Allergies
Dogs can also experience allergies that affect their ears. Allergies to food, pollen, dust mites, or other environmental factors can cause inflammation and warmth in the ears. You might notice your dog scratching their ears more frequently or shaking their head.
If allergies are the cause, the warmth is likely due to the inflammation caused by the allergic reaction. A vet can help determine the underlying allergen and suggest treatment options, which may include antihistamines, dietary changes, or topical medications.
4. Injury or Trauma
If your dog has recently experienced any trauma or injury to their ears, such as rough play or getting into a scrape, it could result in localized inflammation, causing their ears to feel warm. In some cases, you might see bruising or swelling. If the injury seems minor, it should heal on its own, but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t worsen. If the trauma appears severe or your dog seems to be in pain, consulting your vet is recommended.
5. Normal Body Temperature Regulation and Physical Activity
One of the most common reasons your dog’s ears may feel warm is due to natural body temperature regulation. Dogs typically have a higher body temperature than humans, ranging between 101°F to 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). Their ears are thin and have a rich blood supply, which helps them release excess heat.
You might feel this warmth when your dog has been active, or if the weather is warmer than usual. In these cases, warm ears are perfectly normal and simply reflect your dog’s body working to maintain an optimal internal temperature. Once your dog calms down and rests, the warmth should subside.
7 Signs to Look for When Your Dog’s Ears are Warm
While warm ears in dogs are often harmless, there are a few red flags to watch out for that could signal something more serious:
- Redness or inflammation in the ear especially in combination with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
- Excessive scratching or pawing at the ear
- Unpleasant odor coming from the ear
- Visible swelling, discharge, or odor from the ears
- Sensitivity or pain when touched
- Shaking head frequently
- Behavioral changes like irritability or lethargy
Final Word
In most cases, warm ears in dogs are a natural response to external temperature changes, excitement, or physical activity and aren’t a cause for concern. However, if your dog’s warm ears are accompanied by other symptoms of illness, discomfort, or infection, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. By keeping a close eye on your dog’s behavior and overall health, you can better understand when warm ears are just part of your dog’s everyday life and when they may require a closer look.
As always, your veterinarian – Pet First Veterinary Clinic – is your best resource for any concerns about your pet’s health, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure.