Habitat loss is the most likely threat to Dusicyon microtis, but as so little is known about the distribution and abundance of this species, the quantitative effect of habitat loss is difficult to assess.
The small eared zorro is found in the Amazon basin, in Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia (Orinoco basin), and possibly Venezuela, inhabiting the tropical forests, up to altitudes of 1,000 m.
Other language names: Spanish: Zorro negro, Perro de Monte.
Nothing recent is known. The small-eared zorro is considered rare throughout its range, and by the IUCN as "Data Deficient".