Some ear scratching now and then is not really something to worry about. However, if your pooch seems to be scratching his ears or rubbing them of surfaces more than usual, it might signal a problem.
Here are some clues your canine pal has a possible ear problem:
- Scratching their ear(s).
- Shaking or tilting their head.
- Redness, scratches, or wounds on the ear flap or the skin near the ear.
- Debris, discharge, bleeding, or excessive wax from your dog’s ear.
- A bad smell from the ear.
- A painful ear.
- A swollen ear flap.
- Loss of balance
What could be the cause?
In dogs, most ear infections are caused by bacteria or yeast. These microscopic organisms naturally live on the skin in a healthy balance but will take the opportunity to overgrow and cause problems if conditions are right.
Because the ear canal is very warm and dark, it’s a good growing environment for bacteria and yeast. So, all it takes is some extra dirt, wax, or water inside your dog’s ear to set off an infection.
Here are some things that can put your pup at a higher risk of infection…
- Genetics (especially for breeds with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels).
- Dirty or waxy ears. Bacteria and yeast love to grow in dirty ears!
- Previous ear infections. Unfortunately, over time, infections can narrow the ear canal, making it harder to clean the ears.
- Getting water in the ears, whether it’s during a bath or a jaunt near a lake or ocean.
- Allergies, including food allergies. The ears are basically an extension of the skin, so if allergies affect your pup’s skin, their ears may be at risk, too.
- Ear mites (small parasites of the ears) and getting something stuck in the ear canal.
What is the treatment for ear infections in dogs?
Specific treatment will vary depending on what type of ear infection your pooch has. So, the first thing to do is bring your pal for a veterinary visit.
Diagnostics for dog ear infections
Your vet will use a small viewing device called an ‘otoscope’ to check inside the ear canal for debris, redness, swelling, or other problems.
The next step is usually to perform an ear swab, which involves gently swabbing the affected ear(s) with a cotton-tipped applicator. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for bacteria, yeast, or anything else out of the ordinary. Once your vet knows the cause, there are a few options for treatment.
Medication for dog ear infections
Usually, you’ll receive a topical ear infection ointment or liquid to place in your dog’s ears (though sometimes an oral medication is prescribed). In addition to ingredients to treat bacteria or yeast, these medications also include ingredients to soothe an angry ear and provide relief from swelling, inflammation, and pain. Fortunately, the medicine starts working quickly so your pal will feel better fast.
As always, remember to finish all medication as prescribed. Don’t stop administering medicine early if your pet is feeling better — there’s a good chance the infection will come right back.
What if your dog has an ear hematoma?
Also called an aural hematoma, this swelling of the ear flap is actually a blood pocket that develops when a small blood vessel inside the ear flap ruptures. Usually, this is caused by your pet shaking its head or scratching at its ears too much.
Aural hematomas can happen in cats, too, but they’re much more common in dogs. Typically, these lesions need to be drained by your vet, and may require surgical treatment to prevent them from recurring. They’re another good reason to bring your pet in early for ear infections — the less time your pup spends shaking their head and scratching their ears, the less likely ear hematomas are to develop.
Preventing ear infections
Some things you can do to prevent ear infections include:
- Routine ear cleanings at home or at the vet clinic. Your vet can help you choose the right cleaning products for your dog’s ears, as well as the best frequency of cleaning.
- Watch for any symptoms and seek treatment ASAP.
- Keep your pal up to date on their routine veterinary care and physical exams.
While ear infections are definitely not fun to deal with, some quick and thorough care will get your pup feeling much better soon!
