Dog ear infections are one of the most common reasons for a trip to the vet. They can be painful for your dog and can damage their ears if not treated quickly, so it’s important to know how to prevent and manage this problem. Read on to learn what causes dog ear infections, how to spot the signs, and what to do if your dog has an ear infection.

Dog Ear Infection Causes

A dog ear infection is an overgrowth of bacteria or fungi in the ear.

A dog’s ear canal is L-shaped, with a long, vertical section that can easily trap fluid and debris. This moist, hard-to-reach environment offers the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which is why dog ear infections are unfortunately very common.

Dog ear infections can also develop due to underlying problems that cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the ear canal, such as:

• Excessive wax build-up
• Skin allergies - dog ear infections are a common symptom of atopic dermatitis
• Parasites e.g. ear mites
• Trapped foreign items. Grass seeds are particularly dangerous for dogs as they can become lodged in the ear and in some cases can permanently damage their hearing
• Growths or tumours
• Excessive ear cleaning

The following factors increase the risk of dog ear infections:

• Long, floppy ears
• Allergies
• Excessive wax (common in Labradors)
• Hormonal problems e.g. thyroid disease
• Spending lots of time outdoors
• Frequent swimming

Dog Ear Infection Symptoms

Most dog ear infections affect the outer part of the ear canal where the ear flap meets the opening of the ear. If left untreated, these infections can spread to the middle or inner ear, where they can do lasting damage. For that reason, it’s important to know what dog ear infection symptoms look like so that you can get prompt treatment for your dog. They include:

• Redness, swelling and heat in or around the ear
• Dark, waxy discharge, blood or pus
• An unpleasant odour
• Crusting or scabs in the ear
• A swollen ear flap (aural hematoma)

You might also notice your dog:

• Shaking their head
• Rubbing the side of their head on objects or the ground
• Scratching at their ear
• Whimpering or flinching when their ear is touched

Signs that your dog has a middle or inner ear infection include:

• Head tilt
• Loss of balance
• Vomiting
• Poor hearing

What to Do if Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections can be painful for your dog and, if left untreated, can permanently damage their hearing. Knowing what to do if your dog has an ear infection, then, can give them the best possible outcome.

If you suspect an ear infection contact your vet and ask for an appointment as soon as possible. If your dog is showing signs of a middle or inner ear infection, ask for an urgent appointment.

It’s important that you don’t try to treat a dog ear infection yourself at home. Without a professional examination, it can be hard to figure out the underlying cause, treat it, and prevent an infection from spreading or returning. In some cases, it can make the problem worse.

How to Treat Dog Ear Infections

To treat a dog ear infection your vet will first examine your dog’s ear to find the underlying cause. They might then recommend one of the following treatments:

• Ear cleaning - Your vet may remove wax or debris build-up, or give you instructions on how to clean your dog’s ears at home. Make sure you use a gentle and pH neutral ear cleaner like EpiOtic Ear Cleanser.
• Medicated eardrops - These contain antifungal or antibacterial ingredients to treat the infection, along with anti-inflammatory ingredients to relieve pain, swelling and irritation.
• Oral antibiotics - For more serious infections, your vet may prescribe oral antibiotics.
• Antiparasitic treatments - For ear mites or other parasites, your dog may need an antiparasitic treatment.
• Painkillers - If your dog is in a lot of pain, your vet may provide pain medication.
• Removal of foreign objects - Your vet may try to pick or flush out foreign objects like grass seeds. However, this can sometimes only be done by surgery under general anaesthesia.

With prompt treatment, most dog ear infections clear up quickly. Your vet will likely want you to bring your dog back after treatment to check on their progress. If the ear infection isn’t responding to treatment or is getting worse, your vet may recommend a different treatment.

How to Clean Dog Ears

Keeping your dog’s ears clean can help to prevent dog ear infections. Not sure how? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to clean dog ears.

1. Gather your supplies

First, choose a vet-approved ear cleaning solution for dogs, such as EpiOtic® Ear Cleanser. This safe, effective solution clears debris and prevents bacteria and fungi bonding to the ear canal, reducing infection risk. You’ll also need cotton balls and a clean, dry towel to clean your dog’s ears. Never use cotton sticks as they can push wax and debris into the canal and cause irritation or injury.

2. Get comfortable

Choose a time when your dog is relaxed, and sit in a comfortable position where you can safely restrain them while still reaching their ears. If they’re nervous or anxious, be sure to use lots of praise and make sure they’re calm before continuing.

3. Insert the solution

Gently lift the ear flap to expose the ear canal, then squeeze in the ear cleaning solution, taking care not to insert the tip of the bottle. When the ear canal is full, gently massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds.

4. Clean and repeat

Your dog might want to give their head a good shake! When they’re done, dry them off with the towel, then gently wipe away any liquid or debris from around the ear. Next, wash your hands and wipe the nozzle clean before repeating the process on the other ear.

NOTE: Don’t try to clean your dog’s ears while they have an active infection unless advised by your vet.

Prompt Treatment is Key

Dog ear infections are a common, but potentially serious, occurrence for our canine friends. Luckily, the signs are easy to spot now that you know what you’re looking for. By checking and cleaning your dog’s ears regularly and visiting your vet as soon as you suspect an infection, you can keep your dog’s ears healthy.