Ear Infections in Dogs
If you have questions about an ear infection or suspect your dog has an ear infection, take the dog to the vet. This article is not meant to diagnose or cure any illness in your dog.
Dogs often get ear infections, especially those with floppy ears or a lot of hair in their ears. These infections can be painful and irritating, but with the right care, they can be treated and even prevented. Understanding what causes ear infections, recognizing the symptoms and knowing the best treatments can help pet owners keep their dogs healthy and comfortable.
Why Do Dogs Get Ear Infections?
There are several reasons dogs develop ear infections. One of the most common causes is bacteria and yeast, which grow easily in the warm, moist environment of a dog’s ear. If a dog’s ears stay damp after swimming or bathing, the extra moisture can lead to an infection.
Allergies are another reason dogs might get ear infections. Dogs can be allergic to things in their environment, certain foods or even flea bites. These allergies cause inflammation, which makes it easier for infections to start. Some dogs also get ear infections because of tiny parasites called ear mites, which are more common in puppies and dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.
Certain breeds are more likely to get ear infections because of their ear shape. Dogs with long, floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, can trap moisture and dirt inside their ears. Other breeds, like Poodles and Schnauzers, grow a lot of hair inside their ears, which makes it harder for air to circulate and keep their ears dry. Some dogs have immune system problems or hormone imbalances that make them more likely to get frequent ear infections.
Signs That Your Dog Has an Ear Infection
If a dog has an ear infection, they will often scratch at their ears, shake their head or tilt it to one side. They might rub their ears against furniture or the floor because they feel uncomfortable.
You may also notice redness, swelling or unusual discharge inside the ear. The ear could smell bad because of bacteria or yeast growing. In more serious cases, dogs can develop scabs or crusty skin around their ears. The infection can be painful, so they may react by pulling away when their ears are touched.
If an ear infection gets worse, it can spread deeper into the ear, causing more problems. The dog may have trouble walking or keeping their balance. In extreme cases, an untreated ear infection can lead to hearing loss or even nerve damage, which could cause paralysis on one side of the face.
How to Treat Ear Infections
Treating an ear infection depends on what caused it and how bad it is. For mild infections, veterinarians usually prescribe medicated ear drops that contain antibiotics or antifungal ingredients to kill bacteria or yeast. These drops also help with pain and swelling.
Before using the drops, pet owners may need to clean the dog’s ears with a special ear-cleaning solution. This helps remove wax and dirt so the medicine can work better. However, it’s important to be careful—not using cotton swabs or harsh chemicals—because this can push debris deeper into the ear and make the infection worse.
If allergies are causing the infection, the veterinarian might recommend antihistamines or a change in the dog’s diet to help reduce inflammation. For serious infections, dogs may need oral antibiotics or steroid medication to help clear up the problem.
In rare cases, dogs with frequent infections may need surgery, especially if their ear shape causes repeated issues. Surgery is a last resort but can make a big difference in preventing pain and discomfort.
How to Prevent Ear Infections
Regular ear cleaning can help prevent infections, especially for breeds that are prone to them. Using a vet-recommended ear-cleaning solution and wiping away dirt and excess wax can help keep ears healthy.
If a dog loves swimming or gets bathed often, it’s important to dry their ears well afterward. Some pet owners use ear-drying solutions to help remove moisture. Keeping the fur around a dog’s ears trimmed can also help air circulate and reduce the risk of infection.
Managing allergies can also help prevent ear infections. Identifying allergens—whether from food, pollen or flea bites—can make a big difference. Regular vet check-ups can help detect early signs of infection before they become serious.
Conclusion
Ear infections in dogs are common, but they can be treated and prevented with the right care. Knowing the causes, signs and treatments helps pet owners keep their dogs healthy and comfortable. Whether through regular ear cleaning, allergy management or veterinarian-prescribed medicine, taking care of a dog’s ears can prevent painful infections and improve their overall well-being.
If your dog has dirty ears, try Auralief Ear Wipes. This does not treat infections, but it can help prevent them.
