By Dr. Patrick Martin
Ear infections are a common and uncomfortable problem for dogs. Some dogs may experience a single infection, while others develop recurring ear problems related to allergies, ear anatomy or lifestyle factors.
Knowing the symptoms of an ear infection—and seeking veterinary care promptly—can help relieve your dog’s discomfort and reduce the risk of the infection becoming more serious.
Why Are Dogs Prone to Ear Infections?
A dog’s ear canal is shaped differently from a human’s. Instead of following a relatively straight path to the eardrum, a dog’s ear canal has both vertical and horizontal sections, creating an “L” shape.
This anatomy can make it easier for moisture, wax and debris to become trapped inside the ear canal. The warm, moist environment may then allow yeast or bacteria to multiply and cause inflammation or infection.
Signs Your Dog May Have an Ear Infection
Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the infection. Common signs include:
- Frequent head shaking
- Scratching or rubbing the ears
- Redness or swelling inside the ear
- Brown, yellow or bloody discharge
- An unpleasant odor from the ear
- Sensitivity or pain when the ear is touched
- Scabs or irritated skin around the ear
- Holding the head tilted to one side
Ear infections can be painful and often worsen without appropriate treatment. Contact your veterinarian when you first notice symptoms rather than attempting to treat the ear at home.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Ear infections often develop because of an underlying issue. Identifying and addressing that issue is an important part of preventing future infections.
Allergies
Environmental or food allergies are among the most common underlying causes of recurring ear inflammation in dogs. Dogs with allergies may also experience:
- Paw licking or chewing
- Itchy or irritated skin
- Hair loss
- Recurrent skin infections
- Symptoms that worsen during certain seasons
For some dogs, recurring ear infections may be one of the first noticeable signs of allergic skin disease.
Ear Anatomy
Dogs with floppy ears, narrow ear canals or excessive hair within the ears may have less airflow and a greater tendency to retain moisture and debris. Breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Poodles may be more prone to ear problems, although any breed can develop an infection.
Moisture in the Ear Canal
Swimming and bathing can introduce water into the ear canal. When moisture remains trapped, it may create conditions that encourage yeast or bacterial growth.
Dogs that swim regularly may benefit from a veterinarian-recommended ear care routine. Products should only be used as directed, since some ear cleaners or medications may be unsafe when the eardrum is damaged.
Other Possible Causes
Additional causes of ear inflammation may include:
- Ear mites
- Foreign material, such as grass or plant debris
- Excessive wax buildup
- Growths or masses within the ear canal
- Hormonal or skin conditions
Because different causes may require different treatments, an examination is necessary to determine what is affecting your dog’s ears.
How Are Dog Ear Infections Diagnosed?
During your dog’s appointment, the veterinarian may examine the ear canal with an otoscope and collect a small sample of material from the ear. Examining that sample under a microscope can help identify yeast, bacteria, mites or inflammatory cells.
Treatment will depend on the examination findings and may include professional ear cleaning, prescription ear medication or treatment for an underlying condition such as allergies.
Avoid using leftover medication from a previous infection. Even when the symptoms appear similar, the cause may be different, and using the wrong product could delay healing or further irritate the ear.
Can Ear Infections Be Prevented?
Not every infection is preventable, especially in dogs with allergies or anatomical risk factors. However, the following steps may help reduce recurrence:
- Check your dog’s ears regularly for redness, odor or discharge.
- Keep the ears dry after swimming or bathing.
- Follow your veterinarian’s recommended cleaning schedule.
- Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal.
- Manage allergies and other underlying health conditions.
- Complete all prescribed medications, even when symptoms improve.
Routine ear cleaning is not appropriate for every dog. Your veterinarian can recommend whether your dog needs regular cleaning and which product is safest.
Schedule a Dog Ear Infection Exam in Dallas
Ear infections rarely resolve without addressing the infection and its underlying cause. Prompt veterinary care can relieve discomfort, identify the type of infection and help prevent recurring problems.
If your dog is shaking their head, scratching their ears or showing other signs of an ear infection, contact Vickery Place Animal Hospital in Dallas, Texas, to schedule an examination.