Amelia Taylor – Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Ear infections are among the most frequent problems in dogs and among the most simple to overlook in the beginning. Since dogs cannot tell us when something doesn’t feel right, it is our responsibility to notice the telltale signs before things get worse.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Dog ear infections most often happen when bacteria, yeast, or ear mites overpopulate the ear canal. The anatomy of a dog’s ear particularly in floppy ears can hold water and debris, making a perfect breeding ground for infection.
Common reasons include:
• Excess moisture (swimming or bathing)
• Allergies (food or environmental)
• Ear mites or parasites
• Overproduction of ear wax
• Foreign objects such as grass seeds
• Hormonal disorders
• Uncontrolled scratching or trauma
Long-eared breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Poodles, and Basset Hounds, are more susceptible to ear infection because of restricted airflow through the ear canal.
Typical Signs of an Ear Infection
Dogs will exhibit a number of behavioral and physical signs when they are troubled by their ears.
Look for:
• Persistent head shaking or ear scratching
• Head rubbing against furniture or the floor
• Redness or swelling of the ear canal
• Turning up the head
• Bad smell from the ear
• Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
• Whining or backing away when you touch the ear
• Tilting the head to one side
• Balance problems or loss of coordination (in extreme situations)
When your dog’s ear has a musty or “yeasty” odor, that’s usually a pretty good indication that infection is in the process of developing.
How to Safely Check Your Dog’s Ears at Home
You can perform a quick at-home ear check:
- The skin should be pale pink, odorless and clean.
- Carefully lift your dog’s ear flap and peek inside.
- If you notice redness, dark debris, or a foul odor it’s time to call your vet.
Never put anything deep into the ear canal (such as cotton swabs). It can drive debris deeper and make the infection worse.
Treatment Options
Once your vet has diagnosed an ear infection, treatment usually consists of:
- Ear cleaning: To eliminate wax and debris.
- Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops: To destroy bacteria or yeast.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: To reduce pain and itching.
- Allergy management: In case of repeated infections caused by allergens.
Your veterinarian may prescribe a regular follow up cleaning schedule to maintain the dryness and health of the ears, particularly for those dogs that swim frequently.
Preventing Future Ear Infections
In order to prevent recurrences:
• Dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after baths or swims.
• Use a veterinarian recommended ear cleaning solution weekly (particularly for floppy-eared breeds).
• Maintain hair surrounding the ear short for enhanced ventilation.
Periodic checking and regular cleanliness go a long way in maintaining infection free ears for your dog.
