Why Are My Dog's Ears Cold? The Science Behind Chilly Canine Ears

If you’ve ever felt your dog’s ears and noticed that they’re cold, you may have wondered why that happens or what makes a dog’s ears cold. There are a few reasons why a dog’s ears might be cold to the touch, including poor circulation due to the way a dog’s ears are constructed, stress-induced vasoconstriction, and exposure to colder temperatures.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the most recent veterinary science that explains why dogs’ ears are cold. From research on thermoregulation to studies on ear anatomy, environmental factors, and even how to warm up your dog’s ears, you’ll learn why your dog’s ears might feel cold and how you can help. Let’s get started so you can better understand what your furry friend needs to keep their ears at the right temperature and in good health.

Why Are Dog Ears Cold?

The anatomy and physiology of a dog’s ears make them especially susceptible to feeling cold. According to PetsRadar, the ears’ thin skin and lack of hair mean they have less natural insulation against the cold than other parts of the body, which can lead to a loss of heat.

The ability to maintain a consistent ear temperature is dependent on good blood flow and the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting, sweating through their paw pads, and the dilation and constriction of blood vessels in their extremities. When it’s cold, the blood vessels in the ears constrict to help the body conserve its core temperature, which can lead to a decrease in the temperature of the ears.

Breed, age, and size can all impact a dog’s ability to regulate the temperature of their ears. For example, smaller, leaner breeds with less body fat may have a harder time staying warm, while larger breeds are often better insulated. In addition, elderly dogs and puppies may have trouble regulating their body temperature, which can lead to cooler ears.

Because the ears are so thinly insulated, their temperature tends to closely mirror the dog’s core body temperature. As a result, checking the temperature of a dog’s ears can be an easy way to determine if the dog has a fever or is hypothermic. In fact, research in the veterinary field has found that cold ears in combination with other symptoms like lethargy and shivering may be a sign of a circulatory problem that needs to be addressed by a vet.

Medical Conditions and Other Causes

There are many medical conditions that can cause a dog's ears to be cold. Per PetCube, these conditions include cardiovascular (heart) conditions, hypothyroidism, anemia, autoimmune diseases, hypothermia, parvovirus, neurological conditions, frostbite, shock, malnutrition or weight loss, and even ear infections.

BetterPet notes that hypovolemic shock, a type of shock that occurs when the body loses a dangerous amount of fluids, and parvovirus can also cause circulation issues that result in cold ears. Autoimmune diseases that impact a dog's ability to regulate their body temperature can also be to blame.

If your dog's ears are cold and this persists, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, changes in behavior, or signs of illness, this could be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed by a vet. Per PEDIGREE® UK, it's important for dog owners to get professional help in order to rule out or find any medical causes of cold ears.

Other things to look out for include shivering, weakness, seeking shelter, and abnormal body temperature. Frostbite and hypothermia are both very serious and need to be treated by a vet. It's important to keep a close eye on your dog's ears and how they're acting in general to make sure they're comfortable and healthy.

How to Keep Your Dog's Ears Warm: Safe and Effective Methods

If you need to keep your dog's ears warm, especially in cold weather, you'll want to make sure you're doing so in a way that is safe and effective. One Vet notes that the use of lamps, electrical appliances, or other external heat sources to warm the dog's environment is the most important factor. However, it's also important to make sure that the dog's temperature is not raised too quickly, which could cause shock.

TryFi says that you can keep your dog's ears warm by providing a warm, comfortable place to sleep with blankets or a heated pad and making sure that there are no drafts or cold air. In addition, you can use dog sweaters, jackets, hats, or hoods to help keep your dog's ears warm. Make sure that the clothing is snug but not too tight. Finally, increased exercise and activity can help ensure that your dog's blood is circulating properly, which will help keep their ears warm.

PetHelpful notes that you can help keep your dog's ears warm by gently massaging them with a warm cloth to help stimulate blood flow. Keeping the hair around the ears trimmed can also help ensure that warm air can reach the skin. Finally, make sure that you're keeping an eye on your dog's ears to make sure that they're not getting too cold and that your dog isn't showing any signs of discomfort.

Home Remedies and Natural Solutions

Ear infections or irritations in dogs can be treated naturally and effectively with home remedies. Dogs Naturally Magazine suggests green tea, calendula tincture, and mullein drops as some of the best options.

A green tea solution can be made by steeping two tea bags in 8 oz of boiling water for a few minutes and then letting it cool to lukewarm before putting it in the ear canal. Calendula tincture, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, can be diluted in water and put in the ear canal. To make a mullein-garlic oil, fill a jar with mullein leaves and flowers, cover with olive oil, let it infuse for 2-3 weeks, and then warm the oil before putting it in the ear.

Holistapet also suggests using CBD products to help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with ear problems. CBD-infused hemp seed oil can be applied directly to the ear or CBD oil can be added to your dog's food to help provide anti-inflammatory and calming effects. That said, it's always best to consult a vet, especially if the skin is broken, before using any home remedies.

While home remedies can be helpful for mild cases, if your dog's ear problems are ongoing or severe, it's important to take them to the vet. It's also important to make sure you're keeping a close eye on your dog's ears and seeking professional help when necessary to ensure your dog's comfort and health.

How to Take Your Dog's Ear Temperature and When to Call the Vet

It’s important to know how to take your dog's ear temperature so that you can keep tabs on their health. PEDIGREE® says that ear thermometers are the most accurate and least invasive way to take your dog's temperature. Make sure to insert the thermometer deeply into the horizontal ear canal to get an accurate reading.

The normal temperature range for a dog's ears is between 100°F to 103°F. If your dog's temperature is over 103°F, it could be a sign of a fever or hyperthermia, which could indicate an underlying condition or overheating. If your dog's temperature is below 99°F, it could be a sign of hypothermia, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary care, according to PetMD.

Dogs Naturally Magazine adds that the normal temperature range for senior dogs is 99°F to 101.5°F. If your dog's ears are consistently cold and they are showing other symptoms like lethargy, shivering, or other signs of distress, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any medical issues.

If you suspect your dog has frostbite or hypothermia, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately. Keeping an eye on your dog's ear temperature and other signs of their overall health will help you ensure that they are safe and healthy.

Conclusion: Make Sure Your Pup Is Comfortable

The causes of cold dog ears can be as simple as the temperature outside or as complex as an underlying medical condition. By learning about the science of ear temperature regulation, understanding the signs to look out for, and taking steps to keep your dog warm, you can make sure that your furry friend is comfortable and healthy.

It’s important to monitor your dog’s ear temperature regularly and take them to the vet when necessary to make sure that they’re healthy. You can also help keep your dog’s ears warm by making sure that they’re in a warm environment and that they have good circulation. With the right care and attention, you can make sure that your dog is comfortable and healthy, even in the coldest months.