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What causes a sore with a hole and redness in my dog's ear canal?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 11 months old

My pup has had this sore in his ear for a bit, any idea what would cause this? He has a vet appointment but I'm just curious. The photo isn't very clear because he wouldn't stay still, but it looks like there is a small hole in the middle, redness around it. Thanks in advance

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jenny, DVM

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 27, 2018

A bite from a bug or insect can cause that. If he scratched his ears one and made a scab, then it can created an open wound. A small growth or cyst that ruptured can also be an option
It is good he is going to the vet because looking in his ear and touching to see how deep it is can really dictate what it is. You can apply a small amount of cortisone cream to it to help with redness until your appointment
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