A Quick Guide to Dog Ear Infection: Causes and Prevention

A Quick Guide to Dog Ear Infection: Causes and Prevention

“My dog has an ear infection” has to be one of the most heard phrases by vets everywhere. Chances are you have already encountered one. If not, then you are in luck because I will show you how to ensure it doesn’t happen.

But first, we need to determine if your dog already has an infection.

Signs your dog has an ear infection

The first giveaway is your dog shaking their head or unusual rubbing on the carpet. But then they could just be playful. So, check for these other signs.

  • Brown, yellow, or bloody ear discharge
  • Smelly ears
  • Hearing loss
  • Redness or swelling
  • The skin near the ear flap is scabby or crusty
  • Loss of balance
  • Walking in circles
  • Strange eye movement
  • Hair around the ears falling off

Causes of ear infections in dogs

Ear infections result from the overgrowth of bacteria or yeast which can be triggered by the following:

  • Ear mites
  • Tumor or foreign object in the ear
  • Undried water after showering or swimming’
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Excessive ear wax
  • Ingrown hair
  • Neglected ear hygiene
  • Allergies

How to prevent ear infections in dogs

  • Maintain good ear hygiene.
  • Properly dry your dog’s ears after a swim or a shower
  • Regularly check for any abnormalities in your dog’s ears.
  • Consider medicated ear-drying products if your dog suffers from recurring infections.

Treating a dog’s ear infection

The best treatment plan for your dog’s ear infection is a deep clean of the complete ear canal. Your vet will take care of it or advise you on how to proceed. They may also recommend a regimen to follow to nurse your dog to full recovery. If the infection is extreme they will prescribe the medication to administer.

A word of caution. Do not use previously prescribed medicine for a new case of ear infection without consulting with your vet.

PS: Dogs with floppy ears such as spaniels and those that have hair inside their ear canals like schnauzers have a higher chance of developing ear infections.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay

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