The Sniff Test: What Your Dog’s Ears Are Telling You

When it comes to keeping your dog healthy and comfortable, there’s one simple habit that often gets overlooked—and it starts with your nose. At Jordan Dog Training, we encourage dog owners to regularly perform “the sniff test” as a quick and easy way to monitor ear health. It might sound a bit funny, but a weekly sniff can help catch problems early, long before they become painful or expensive to treat.

This guide will walk you through what the sniff test is, why it matters, and how to keep your dog’s ears clean, healthy, and infection-free.

What Is the Sniff Test?

The sniff test is exactly what it sounds like—gently sniffing your dog’s ears as part of your regular care routine. A healthy dog’s ears will have little to no noticeable scent. Some dogs may have a faint, slightly warm or “bready” smell, which is completely normal.

But if you detect a strong, sour, yeasty, musty or metallic smell, it could be an early sign of an infection, allergy, or other issue that needs attention.

Doing a quick sniff once or twice a week—especially for dogs prone to ear issues—can help you pick up on subtle changes before they escalate.

Why Is Ear Health So Important?

Your dog’s ears play a vital role in their wellbeing. Infections and inflammation can be painful, impact their balance, and even affect behaviour. Left untreated, ear issues can lead to long-term complications like hearing loss or damage to the inner ear.

Because dogs can’t tell us when something hurts, early detection is key—and your nose might be the first clue that something isn’t quite right.

What Should Clean Ears Smell Like?

Think neutral or barely noticeable. A mild scent is fine, but anything stronger than that could be worth checking further. Here’s a quick sniff guide:

Other Signs of Ear Problems

Besides odour, watch out for:

• Redness or swelling inside or around the ears
• Excessive scratching, head shaking, or pawing at the ears
• Dark wax, pus, or unusual discharge
• Rubbing ears along the ground or furniture
• Sensitivity or pulling away when ears are touched
• Behaviour changes (irritability, reluctance to be handled)

Common Causes of Ear Odour in Dogs

• Ear infections (yeast or bacterial)
• Environmental or food allergies
• Moisture trapped after swimming or bathing
• Grass seeds or other foreign objects (especially in Aussie summers)
• Excessive wax build-up
• Ear mites (more common in puppies)

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Some breeds are more prone to ear issues due to their structure or lifestyle:

• Floppy-eared breeds (e.g. Cocker Spaniels, Cavaliers, Retrievers)
• Hairy-eared breeds (e.g. Poodles, Schnauzers)
• Keen swimmers (e.g. Labradors, Kelpies)
• Short-faced breeds (e.g. French Bulldogs) with narrower canals

If you own one of these breeds, regular sniff tests and routine ear checks are even more important.

How to Keep Your Dog’s Ears Healthy

✅ Do the sniff test weekly

✅ Wipe outer ears gently with a damp cloth or dog-safe ear wipe

✅ Dry ears thoroughly after baths or swimming

✅ Use vet-approved ear cleaners if recommended

✅ Feed a balanced diet, possibly with omega-3s to support skin and ear health

✅ Check regularly for grass seeds, especially after outdoor adventures

✅ Train your dog to accept gentle ear handling from an early age

What NOT to Do

🚫 Don’t use cotton buds inside the ear canal

🚫 Don’t apply vinegar or hydrogen peroxide without vet advice

🚫 Don’t over-clean—this can cause irritation

🚫 Don’t ignore a persistent smell or discharge

🚫 Don’t attempt to pluck inner ear hair unless advised by your vet or groomer

Puppies and the Sniff Test

Puppies are still developing their immune systems and may be more vulnerable to ear mites and infections. Start sniff tests early to establish a routine and help them get used to gentle ear handling. Always be extra cautious with cleaning and consult your vet if anything seems unusual.

Training Tip: Make It Part of Your Bonding Routine

Dogs that are used to their ears being gently handled are far easier to groom, clean, and treat if needed. Use treats and praise to make it a positive experience. A quick sniff during cuddle time or brushing can be just as natural as checking their paws or coat.

When the Sniff Test Saves the Day

We’ve worked with many clients who picked up on an issue just by noticing a weird smell during a cuddle on the couch. Their quick response meant a fast vet visit, simple treatment, and no long-term problems. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference.

Conclusion: Trust Your Nose

Ear health is often out of sight—but it doesn’t have to be out of mind. The sniff test is a simple, effective way to catch early signs of discomfort before they turn into bigger problems. It takes just a few seconds and can save your dog a lot of pain—and save you a costly vet bill.

If in doubt, trust your nose. If something smells off, it probably is.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is intended as general guidance and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If you notice any signs of discomfort, odour, or infection in your dog’s ears, consult your veterinarian. For support with training or helping your dog become more comfortable with ear care, feel free to reach out to the team at Jordan Dog Training.