Which of the following is NOT a sign of otitis externa?

The presence of bright eyes is not a sign of otitis externa, which is an inflammation of the outer ear canal typically associated with infections, allergies, or parasites. In cases of otitis externa, dogs often exhibit behaviors and symptoms that indicate discomfort or irritation in their ears.

Signs like head shaking, foul smell, and ear scratching are all common indicators of ear problems. Head shaking often occurs as dogs attempt to relieve discomfort in their ears. A foul smell can indicate the presence of an infection or excessive wax buildup, both of which are associated with otitis externa. Similarly, ear scratching is a clear sign that a dog is experiencing irritation or pain, prompting them to try to alleviate the discomfort.

In contrast, bright eyes suggest health and alertness, which are typically not associated with discomfort or pain from otitis externa. Thus, recognizing the absence of symptoms such as bright eyes helps to effectively identify and differentiate signs of ear issues in dogs.