Frequent scratching at the ears
Repeated head shaking
Dark, crumbly, coffee-ground-like debris in the ear
Redness or irritation inside the ear
Strong odor from the ears
Scabs or crust around the ears and head
Excessive grooming of the head and neck
Sensitivity or pain when the ears are touched
Ear discharge that looks dry and black
Signs of restlessness or discomfort
Visible tiny white moving specks in the ear
Scratching that worsens over time
Ear inflammation in one or both ears