Should dogs ears be cool? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

The simple answer is: not necessarily. A dog’s ear temperature can fluctuate based on a variety of factors, and while cold ears can sometimes be a normal occurrence, they can also indicate an underlying issue. It’s crucial to understand the nuances of your dog’s ear temperature to ensure their overall health and well-being. This article will delve into why your dog’s ears might feel cold, when to be concerned, and provide a comprehensive guide to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.

The Normal Temperature of a Dog’s Ears

To begin, it’s important to understand that a dog’s normal body temperature is higher than a human’s, typically ranging between 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius). Blood circulation is the primary method for dogs to regulate their temperature. It’s important to note that blood flow to external areas like the ears, paws, and nose is often slower. This means that your dog’s ears may feel cooler than their body core, particularly at the edges, and is not a cause for alarm in many cases. However, both cold ears and unusually hot ears can sometimes indicate a problem.

Why Are My Dog’s Ears Sometimes Cold?

Several factors can contribute to your dog’s ears feeling cool:

• Weather: The most common reason for cold ears is the weather. If it’s cold outside, your dog’s ears, along with other extremities like the paws and nose, will naturally feel cooler to the touch. Wind, moisture from rain or snow, and high humidity can all contribute to heat loss from the ears, making them feel colder.
• Reduced Blood Circulation: Blood flow can be slower to the ears compared to the core body. When a dog is resting or inactive, blood flow to external areas might slow down, leading to cooler ears.
• Exposure: Direct contact with a cold surface or air, particularly during walks in winter, can quickly chill a dog’s ears.
• Individual Variation: Some dogs are simply more prone to having cooler ears than others. This is often related to their breed, coat type, and natural physiology.

When Cold Ears Are a Cause for Concern

While often harmless, cold ears can sometimes signify an underlying issue. A drop in body temperature, especially following an injury, can be a sign of shock. If your dog’s ears are cold, and they also show other symptoms, it’s important to take note.

Signs of a dog that is too cold include:

• Shaking or shivering
• Hunched posture with a tucked tail
• Whining or barking
• Change in behavior, seeming anxious or uncomfortable
• Reluctance to walk or trying to turn around
• Seeking places for shelter
• Holding paws up off the ground

If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms along with cold ears, a drop in body temperature is likely and a visit to the vet is recommended.

What About Hot Ears?

While cold ears might be from external weather, unusually hot ears can indicate underlying health issues.

Potential Causes of Hot Ears

• Fever: If a dog has a fever, their ears will often feel warm and sometimes even hot to the touch. This could be from a systemic infection.
• Ear Infection: An ear infection, whether bacterial, yeast-based, or caused by ear mites, can make the ear canal inflamed and hot.
• Food Allergies: Food allergies can cause inflammation throughout a dog’s body, including the ears, making them feel hot.
• Exercise/Excitement: Just like humans, dogs’ bodies may heat up when they’re excited or engaging in heavy physical activity. This may cause the ears to feel warmer than normal.

How to Tell the Difference

A simple method to gauge your dog’s ear temperature is to use the back of your hand or your cheek. If the ears feel noticeably warmer than your own skin, there could be a problem. If you’re concerned, taking your dog’s temperature with a rectal thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if they have a fever. A dog’s normal body temperature is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius). Anything above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered a fever and needs veterinary attention.

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Dog Ears

Beyond temperature, the appearance of your dog’s ears is a key indicator of health.

Characteristics of Healthy Ears

• Light Pink: Healthy dog ears should be a light pink color on the inner flap.
• Clean: Healthy ears should have no apparent dirt, excessive wax, or crust.
• No Smell: There should be no unpleasant smell coming from the ears.

Characteristics of Unhealthy Ears

• Swelling or Redness: Inflammation and redness are common signs of ear problems.
• Pain: Your dog may show signs of pain or discomfort when you touch their ears.
• Bad Smell: A foul smell, especially if accompanied by discharge, usually indicates an infection.
• Itchiness: Excessive scratching at the ears and around the head is a red flag.
• Head Shaking: Frequent head shaking can also point to ear discomfort.
• Discharge: Any discharge from the ear, whether clear, yellow or brown, requires vet attention.
• Balance Issues or Head Tilt: In severe ear problems that affect deep inside the ear, you may see symptoms like loss of balance, a head tilt, or flickering eye movements.

Practical Tips for Dog Ear Care

Understanding and paying attention to your dog’s ears is crucial to their overall health. Here are some practical tips:

• Regular Checks: Make it a habit to check your dog’s ears regularly for signs of trouble.
• Clean When Necessary: If your dog tends to get wax buildup, use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal as they can cause damage.
• Keep Dry: Ensure your dog’s ears are dried thoroughly after baths or swimming, as moisture can lead to infection.
• Provide Blankets: Dogs love to snuggle under blankets. Providing one can offer comfort and warmth, especially for older dogs or those with less muscle mass.
• Seek Veterinary Advice: If you notice any signs of ear issues, seek veterinary advice promptly. Early treatment is key to preventing complications.
• Temperature Awareness: Be mindful of the temperature of your dog’s environment. Make sure they aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a dog get cold from wind?

Yes, wind can cause a dog’s ears to feel colder, as the wind can remove heat from the ears at a faster rate.

2. Is it normal for a dog’s ears to be cold but their body warm?

Yes, this is often due to the weather. Blood circulates to the core to keep them warm, while the extremities get less circulation and may be colder.

3. How do I know if my dog is too cold?

Signs include shaking, shivering, hunched posture, whining, changes in behavior, and reluctance to walk.

4. What do healthy dog ears look like?

Healthy dog ears are light pink with no apparent dirt, inflammation or foul odor.

5. What do unhealthy dog ears look like?

Unhealthy ears can be red, swollen, have discharge, a foul odor, excessive wax and your dog will be excessively scratching.

6. What does it mean if my dog’s ears are hot?

Hot ears can indicate a fever, ear infection, food allergies or that they are hot from physical activity or excitement.

7. Can you tell if a dog is cold by their ears?

Yes, if you suspect your dog is cold, feeling their ears is a good indicator. If they are chilly, their ears will feel cold, especially around the edges.

8. Do dogs like blankets?

Yes, dogs notoriously love blankets, providing them with comfort, security and warmth.

9. Should I cover my dog with a blanket at night?

Older, young, or anxious dogs may benefit from a blanket while supervised. Not all pets need a blanket, but it can be an easy way to improve comfort.

10. Do dogs get cold at night in the house?

If the house is cold, your dog will likely feel it. If the temperature falls below around 7 degrees Celsius, your dog may feel uncomfortable.

11. How can I cool my dog’s ears?

Pour cool water over your dog’s feet, ears and head. Never use ice or very cold water, which can cause shock.

12. How can I check my dog’s temperature without a thermometer?

Feel your dog’s ears and paws. If they’re warmer than yours, they might have a fever.

13. Do warm ears mean fever in dogs?

Warm ears can be a sign of a fever but the only way to be sure is to use a thermometer. Signs of fever also include red eyes, lack of energy, and shivering.

14. What are the symptoms of a dog ear infection?

Symptoms include head shaking, excessive scratching, a foul odor, and discharge.

15. Can you treat a dog ear infection without vet?

No, it is not advisable to treat an ear infection without consulting a vet. You can do more harm than good by using the wrong remedy, or if there is a ruptured ear drum.

Conclusion

Understanding whether your dog’s ears should be cool isn’t just about temperature; it’s about being in tune with your dog’s overall health and well-being. While cold ears can be normal in certain situations, particularly in cooler weather, be vigilant for other signs. If you notice concerning symptoms like hot ears, signs of a fever, or changes in behavior, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. By paying close attention to your dog’s cues and implementing proper care, you can ensure your furry friend stays comfortable and healthy.