Frequent head shaking
Excessive scratching at the ears
Dark, crumbly ear discharge that looks like coffee grounds
Red, irritated, or inflamed ears
Strong odor coming from the ears
Scabs or crust around the ear opening
Hair loss around the ears from scratching
Sensitivity or pain when the ears are touched
Ear mites visible as tiny white moving specks
Signs of irritation in both ears, especially if contagious to other pets