Ear infections in dogs can cause severe itching and pain, and they require veterinary treatment. Symptoms are usually noticeable early in an infection, including ear redness, and dogs with itchy or painful ears will often shake their heads or scratch their ears. Infections may arise from bacterial or fungal overgrowth due to several precipitating factors, and identifying the cause is necessary for effective treatment. Dogs with floppy ears are particularly prone to infection.
Ear infections are inflammatory reactions to bacterial or fungal (yeast) overgrowth in a dog's inner or outer ear canal. They can occur only in the outer portion of the ear but will progress and inflame the inner portions of the ear if left untreated. The deeper the infection, the harder it is to treat and the more serious damage it can inflict.
Ear infections can be extremely painful for dogs. If your dog is displaying any physical or behavioral changes that may indicate pain or discomfort, especially in or around the ears, pay a visit to your vet right away.
Numerous symptoms can signify an ear infection in your dog, many of which are readily observable. Head shaking, scratching, and rubbing are telltale signs, but you may also see your dog tilting its head, holding one ear down, and being reluctant to have its head or ears touched.
Sometimes the ear infection will cause a foul odor and create ear discharge. Occasionally, hair loss or blood will be seen from constant scratching and rubbing on the ear. Ear hematomas may form on the outside of the ear from the trauma. If the infection has progressed into the middle or inner ear, then hearing loss, abnormal eye movements, and a loss of balance can occur.
There are several causes of ear infections in dogs. Understanding the factors contributing to the infection will help you prevent future pain and discomfort for your dog.
Ear mites are tiny, incredibly itchy parasites that can live in a dog's ear canal. An ear mite infestation may lead to ear infections due to the environment in the canal created by the parasite. The symptoms of ear mites are almost identical to those of an ear infection, even if the mites haven't caused a secondary infection. If you suspect your dog has either condition, pay a visit to your vet right away.
Dogs that have allergies may be particularly susceptible to ear infections. Food allergies and environmental allergies, especially skin irritants like pollen or dust, can cause secondary, recurring ear infections.
Moisture in a dog's ear creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. If the moisture itself doesn't cause an ear infection, the bacteria in the water can.
Hair around a dog's ear can transport moisture or bacteria that can cause ear infections. Hair can also carry parasites and irritants that can enter and infect the ear canal.
Ear tumors or growths, benign or not, can lead to ear infections. Polyps can form in clogged wax-producing glands and cover the ear opening, impeding proper bacterial and yeast regulation and causing infection.
Basset hounds, Chinese Shar-Peis, Labradoodles, beagles, and golden retrievers are especially susceptible to ear infections because their ear flaps reduce airflow to the outer ear canal.
To diagnose an ear infection, your veterinarian will begin with a physical examination of the ear. Your vet will use an otoscope to look inside your dog's ear and then may swab the ear canal to obtain and test a bacterial sample. The vet will look for any abnormalities in the canal through the otoscope, like swelling, discharge, growths, and redness. A biopsy may be performed in severe cases or if your vet finds a growth that carries a risk of malignancy.
Ear infections in dogs are usually treated with topical medications in the form of ear drops or ointment. However, if the affected ears are very painful, your vet may prescribe oral medications for pain and inflammation.
Before applying topical medications to the ear, the ear must be clean. Your vet may prescribe a medicated ear cleaner or recommend an over-the-counter solution. Once the ear is properly cleaned, the topical medication can be applied and gently massaged into the ear canal. If the ear is extremely dirty or painful, your dog may need to be sedated or anesthetized and have its ear cleaned by a vet.
While uncommon, if a dog has developed severe chronic inflammation and medications are no longer effective, surgery may be needed to remove the ear canal. This procedure is called a total ear canal ablation (TECA). TECA surgery may also be recommended if tumors or polyps are present in the ear canal.
Swift ear infection treatment is essential to the health and wellbeing of your dog. Ear infections are prevalent but nearly all cases are easily treatable with topical medications. Typically, within a few days, your dog will begin to feel better. After one to two weeks, the infection will be resolved.
Some ear infections are challenging to treat and can be resistant to medication. Additionally, if an ear infection is left untreated for a prolonged period, it can cause severe inflammation, permanent damage to the eardrum, and impact your dog's hearing.
There are a few easy ways to help prevent your dog from developing an ear infection. Cleaning and drying your dog's ears after a bath or a swim is one of the best preventive measures you can take. Additionally, if your dog has a lot of hair in and around its ear opening, clipping or plucking excess hair can reduce some heat and moisture in the ear that can contribute to an ear infection.
If your vet suspects that an allergy causes your dog's ear infection, you will need to regulate allergens through diet changes or limiting exposure to irritants. If a growth has formed in or around the ear canal, removing it can help prevent future infections.
Ear infections are not usually contagious to other animals, but there are exceptions. If the ear infection results from an ear mite infestation, another dog or cat can easily contract these parasites and develop a secondary ear infection. Additionally, if the type of bacteria in the ear infection is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP), it is spreadable to other animals.
Ear infections in dogs are not usually contagious to humans. Still, if the infection is due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP), it could be spread to humans. This is rare, especially in non-immunocompromised people.
Common Injuries in Dogs and How to Treat Them
Learn about the most common injuries in dogs—whether in their legs, spine, tail, or eye—and how you should treat them with this helpful list.How to Calm a Panting Dog
Learn how to calm a dog’s breathing when they’re panting or breathing too fast. Dogs may breathe fast for several reasons. Know when to call the vet and how to determine if it’s an emergency.Common Antibiotics for Dogs
Antibiotics are commonly used in dogs to treat a variety of infections. Learn about some common types of antibiotics for dogs, what conditions they treat, potential side effects, and safety information.Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV for short, is a small, shaggy-coated scent hound from France. Known for their charming personality and cuddly appearance, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are outgoing, confident, and proud dogs.Golden Retriever: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
Learn about the golden retriever, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. It is known for its loyalty, enthusiasm, and sweet, bright eyes.Becoming a Show Dog: Getting Started
Do you have the perfect puppy? Have you considered showing her in a dog show? There's much more to showing than showing up! Here's how to get started.How to Train Your Dog to Go to Its Place
Training your dog to go to its bed or place is a great way to get it to settle down quickly. Learn how to get your dog to follow the place command.Myths and Superstitions About Black Cats
Black cats have played a major role in folklore, superstition, and mythology for centuries. Learn the origins behind these black cat stories.Devon Rex: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Devon rex is a unique breed known for their unique appearance, including large ears, big eyes, and a short, wavy coat. They are active and friendly cats who make a great fit for most families. Learn more about the Devon rex cat breed.Birman: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Birman is a medium- to large-sized cat breed that has a stocky body and a quiet demeanor. Learn more about this kind-natured cat.Reasons Why Your Cat Acts Crazy and How to Stop It
Cats do some strange things. Learn the reasons why your cat may run around acting crazy and find out if it's something you should be concerned about.Why Cats Eat Litter and How to Stop It
Eating litter is not uncommon in kittens, but it may be a sign of health problems in adult cats.How to Discipline Your Cat the Right Way
Cats are mischievous but sometimes they also misbehave. Learn how to safely and effectively discipline a cat and positively change their behavior.Ringworm in Cats
Ringworm in cats is a fungus similar to athlete's foot in humans. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.Signs of Heat in Cats
A cat in heat will show several physical and behavioral signs. Here's how to tell if your cat is in heat and how to care for her during this time. Learn the signs and how to prevent pregnancy, even if her cycle has begun.What to Do if Your Cat Is Snoring
Cat snoring can happen for several reasons. Find out if your cat's snoring is normal or caused by a medical issue. Know when to call the vet about your cat snoring.Is Lavender Safe for Cats?
Are cats safe around lavender? Find out how lavender affects cats and what to do if your cat is exposed to it.Hyperlipidemia in Cats
Hyperlipidemia is an abnormally high level of fat in a cat's bloodstream. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.275 Best Male Cat Names for Your Handsome Kitty
There are plenty of male cat names to choose from if you’re looking to add a new tomcat to the family. Here are 275 of our favorite choices for male cat names.Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet?
What are the potential health benefits of chicken feet for dogs? What are the risks?