Ear Infections in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment

by **Steve** Tue Jan 07 2014, 20:35

Frequently Asked Questions

Ear Infections in Dogs:

Symptoms and Treatment

Canine ear infections are most often due to bacteria or yeast. Ear mites, growing hair, trapped water, a tumor or foreign body in the ear canal can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. Infections may also develop when allergies, hypothyroidism or an excessive amount of ear wax are present.

Frequent bathing, swimming and incorrect cleaning methods can also lead to infections. Because a dog's ear canals plunge downward and then horizontally from the ear opening, it is difficult for caught debris or water to be released as it must work its way upward to escape; this makes dogs especially susceptible to ear infections.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has an Ear Infection?
The following symptoms may indicate that your dog needs to have his ears checked by a veterinarian:

Ear scratching
Brown, yellow or bloody discharge
Odor in the ear
Redness
Swelling
Crusted or scabby skin on the near ear flap
Hair loss around the ear
Wiping the ear area on the floor or furniture
Head shaking or head tilt
Loss of balance
Unusual eye movements
Walking in circles
Hearing loss

Which Dogs Are Prone to Ear Infections?
Dogs who are prone to allergies or have floppy ears can be especially vulnerable. These include cocker spaniels, golden retrievers and poodles. Dogs who tend to grow hair in the inner ear canal, such as schnauzers, are also susceptible to ear infections.

How Are Ear Infections Diagnosed?
A veterinarian can usually diagnose an ear infection by examining the ear canal and ear drum with a magnifying ear cone similar to devices used on people. This may require sedation or full anesthesia. A sample of ear discharge may be examined to look for bacteria, yeast and parasites. A vet may also suggest bloodwork and allergy tests to determine the root causes.

It's important not to self-diagnose ear problems, as improperly treated infections may lead to chronic pain or deafness in dogs. Please always allow your vet to determine the cause of your dog's symptoms.

How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Many ear infections can be treated with a professional cleaning followed by regular cleaning and medication given at home. Your veterinarian may prescribe topical and/or oral medicine. For severe or chronic cases, anesthesia and ear flushing-or even surgery-may be necessary.

How Can Ear Infections Be Prevented?

Check your dog's ears regularly for discharge, odor, swelling and other symptoms of infection.
If his ear canal appears dirty, clean with a cotton ball dampened with a solution suggested by your vet-but don't clean so often or deeply that you cause irritation.
After baths and swimming, be sure to dry your dog's ears as thoroughly and carefully as you can. in the ear
If your dog is prone to infections, ask your vet if canine ear-drying solution would be beneficial.
If your dog grows hair in or around the opening of his ear canals, periodically tweeze it away (if your dog tolerates it) or request that your groomer do so.
Inner-ear skin is delicate, so ask your vet to demonstrate the proper method for maintaining your dog's ear health.

When Is It Time to See the Vet?
If your dog is showing any of the symptoms described above, see the vet as soon as possible. Please also bear in mind that even though dogs in pain don't always show it with outward signs, a sudden increase in aggression can be an indicator of physical pain. Such behavioral changes should also prompt a veterinary exam.

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