A dog’s ears are a powerful tool that helps them navigate through their surroundings and explore. When these ears experience issues, their everyday routines will be affected. One of the many problems is an ear infection.
Ear infections in dogs escalate quickly, with several causes and risk factors. If the infection is left untreated, it gets worse and can spread to other areas of the dog’s body. But first, let’s learn more about what these are.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
There are plenty of factors when it comes to this issue. Below are the most common causes of dog ear infections:
Bacterial Infections
Bacteria are one of the primary reasons for ear infections in dogs. When the moisture accumulates in the ears, the space becomes an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply.
It’s a common occurrence for outdoor and active dogs, especially those who love to swim without getting dried up properly.
Aside from moisture, several health conditions can also increase the risk of bacterial ear infections in dogs. These diseases typically weaken the immune system, making affected dogs susceptible to infections.
Yeast Infections
Similar to bacteria, fungal infections can also take advantage of the moist environment within the dog’s ears. Other triggers to yeast infections can also include allergies, certain medications, and ear shape.
Ear Mites
Ear mites are small parasites that stay in a dog’s ear canal, causing irritation and inflammation. These parasites can easily spread between animals, which makes them a risk to any dog’s health.
These parasites can easily spread between animals, especially in multi-pet households. Dogs with ear mites typically scratch their ears vigorously and may have a dark, crumbly discharge that resembles coffee grounds.
Allergies
Allergies, either from food, fleas, or environmental allergens, can trigger ear infections. From the inflammation they cause, bacteria and fungi can easily invade.
Additionally, dogs with allergies tend to excessively scratch and rub their ears, which can potentially lead to wounds and further irritation.
Injuries and Foreign Bodies
Injuries and accidents from foreign bodies can open up the skin’s ears and create opportunities for infections to arise. These open wounds can also invite parasites, which then lead to ear infections.
Are Some Dogs More Prone to Ear Infections?
Yes, some dog breeds are more susceptible to ear infections compared to other types. This mainly comes as a result of their coat length and ear structure.
Cocker Spaniels. Cocker Spaniels have long and floppy ears that can easily trap moisture. Because of this, it's easier for bacteria and fungi to grow and thrive.
Basset Hounds. These dogs have large, floppy ears that can easily trap moisture and debris, which creates a suitable space for microbial growth.
Poodles. Poodles have floppy ears and excess hair in the ear canal, which can easily accumulate dirt, debris, and moisture.
Labrador Retriever. Labs love to play in water. When they aren't dried properly, the moisture can accumulate deep in the ear canals. Again, moisture helps microbial growth.
What Are the Types of Dog Ear Infections?
Ear infections in dogs are classified depending on where the infection is located. Here are the types:
Otitis Externa
Otitis externa, or an infection in the outer ear, is the most common type of dog ear infection. This type affects the outer ear canal of dogs and is usually caused by bacteria and fungi. Otitis externa usually happens because of trapped moisture in this section of the ear.
Otitis Media
When otitis externa is left untreated, the problem can potentially worsen. Chronic ear infections in dogs can lead to otitis media, the infection of the middle ear. Aside from this, it can also be caused by foreign body damage or a ruptured eardrum.
Because of the nature of the infection and the area infected, otitis media can present severe symptoms and concerns.
Otitis Interna
The most serious type of canine ear infection is otitis interna, which affects the inner ear. Otitis interna often stems from an untreated inner ear infection. It presents the most severe symptoms, especially since the inflammation impacts the vestibulocochlear nerve.
Here, dogs can expect neurological symptoms that can affect their balance and behavior.
How Do I Know if a Dog Has an Ear Infection?
Dogs and ear infections are a common occurrence, which can be highlighted by several signs and symptoms. These include:
Head Shaking. Frequent head shaking is a common sign of an ear infection. Dogs tend to shake their heads in the hopes of getting rid of the irritation and discomfort. You’ll notice this if they can be visibly uncomfortable as well.
Scratching and Pawing. One of the clearest signs of a canine ear infection is persistent and excessive scratching at the ears. Your dog might try to use their paws, nearby furniture, or the floor itself to scratch the area. It’s usually to try to relieve the itch.
Redness and Swelling. The constant inflammation and accompanying scratching can result in redness and swelling of the ear. In severe cases, the ears can look severely damaged from too much scratching.
Color and Odor. Normally, a dog’s earwax can be clear, brown, or pale yellow. In ear infections, these can have a dark green color for bacterial infections and a dark brown color for yeast infections. Red earwax also indicates bleeding can be accompanied by a foul smell.
Pain and Sensitivity. A dog can feel pain and sensitivity as the infection progresses. They might avoid your touch, hide in solitude, or appear visibly uncomfortable and distressed.
Balance Issues or Hearing Loss. In advanced cases, the infection may affect the inner ear, leading to balance problems or hearing loss. Dogs might have trouble walking, while some can frequently stumble and fall.
How Do Vets Diagnose Ear Infections in Dogs?
We'll start examining the surface of the ear, then proceed to the inner parts. For a deeper look, we'll use an otoscope, which is essentially a tool with a light and a magnifier.
With an otoscope, we can clearly see your dog's inner ear canal. This allows us to check for anything out of the ordinary, which can be inflammation, wax buildup, or some foreign material.
Plus, we can use video otoscopes, which are essentially otoscopes with a camera attached to them. Our vets can use this to show you your dog's ears and the reason for the infection.
After this, we'll collect a sample of the debris and discharge present. This sample will be examined under a microscope to look for bacteria, fungi, ear mites, and other potential causes.
For cases that keep happening again and again, we’ll do an ear culture and sensitivity test. This involves growing the sample to identify the exact bacteria that have been causing the problem. From here, we can test the antibiotics we can use.
Other tests include an allergy test, which can help if allergies are suspected. Diagnostic imaging can also be used to assess your dog’s middle and inner ear in full detail.
What Are Common Dog Ear Infection Treatment Options?
The treatment plan we will use will depend on the cause and location of the ear infection. Here are the common options.
Ear Cleaning
Flushing out bacteria, yeast, ear mites, and debris is the initial step. We’ll use a medicated ear cleanser and a soft cloth for the process. This first step is the foundation for other treatments to work effectively, especially since a significant portion of the cause has been eliminated.
Canine Ear Drops
Topical medications and ointments are the most common types of dog ear infection treatment. These medications are easy to apply, which helps you keep your dog safe even in the comfort of your home.
A dog’s fungal ear infection treatment will consist of antifungals, while bacterial causes require antibiotics. For ear mites, canine ear drops specifically made for these parasites will be prescribed. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to relieve the symptoms.
Oral Medications
Oral medications can also help fight off ear infections systemically. Oral antibiotics, antifungals, and anti-inflammatories can be prescribed.
Surgery
For severe cases, surgery will be recommended. This is only an option for cases in which there is significant damage, a deeply lodged foreign material, or a bone infection.
How Do You Treat a Dog’s Ear Infection at Home?
The treatment process typically continues at home after a vet visit. While several sources cite different home remedies, these should always be used with our guidance first.
These home remedies can potentially worsen the issue, such as when the eardrum has ruptured.
Be sure to follow our vets’ prescription and schedule to help your dog recover. It’s not advisable to stray away from the treatment plan.
Clean your dog's ears with a vet-approved solution and some cotton balls. To do it, apply a few drops of the solution to the ear, then massage the base. After a while, use a cotton ball to wipe away the visible debris. Never use cotton swabs, as these can potentially cause injuries.
Can a Dog’s Ear Infection Resolve on Its Own?
Dog ear infections usually don’t resolve on their own. They will require treatment and home care to prevent the infection from worsening. Professional vet care ensures the cause is identified and treated.
Leaving ear infections to resolve on their own will be painful and uncomfortable for affected dogs. Plus, these can worsen into much more severe symptoms that affect hearing, balance, coordination, and neurological function.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs?
Preventing these problems is always recommended, especially if your dog is a breed carrying an increased risk. Here are a couple of easy tips:
Clean Ears Regularly
Routine grooming and cleaning are recommended to keep your dog’s ears clean and free from debris, bacteria, and fungi. However, this should only be done every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your dog’s risk, breed, and lifestyle. Too much can be counterproductive and harmful.
Keep Ears Dry
If your dog loves to play outside and in the water, be sure to wipe their ears after they play. Moisture is a major trigger that should be avoided at all times. This also applies to baths, as thorough drying is highly advisable.
Check Ears Regularly
While you’re cleaning and wiping away, be sure to visually inspect your dog’s ears for any signs of infection or irritation. Staying ahead is always a good step when it comes to preventing any sort of problem.
“A healthy dog starts with the little things. Keep their ears clean to keep their smiles wide.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
Dogs and ear infections are not the rarest things in the world, which means that we have to take steps to protect our best friends. Through the right care, knowledge, and help, we can keep our dogs’ ears healthy so they can keep hearing more from us.
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