Dogs can get ear infections for a variety of reasons, such as allergies, parasites, ear shape or an underlying health condition.
If you’ve noticed your dog scratching their ears recently, your local VetPartners practice can help you determine whether they’re dealing with an ear infection and recommend the right course of treatment.
Otitis externa is a condition caused by inflammation of the outer ear canal.
The inflammation can cause the ear skin to become more fragile, which allows bacteria and yeast to grow which can lead to a secondary infection.
Dog ear infections are a common condition and we recommend that you speak to your vet if you notice any signs of infection, as, if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health issues.
What are the causes of dog ear infections?
There are various potential dog ear infection causes. Many dog ear infections are treatable and knowing the cause helps your vet to resolve the issue and restore your dog’s comfort.
Allergic skin disease
Allergic skin disease is the most common cause. This is a broad term used to describe many allergic conditions that cause skin inflammation, such as food and pollen hypersensitivity.
Foreign bodies
Coming into contact with foreign bodies such as grass seeds can lead to dog ear infections.
Dogs that enjoy swimming outdoors are also at greater risk of developing ear infections.
Ear shapes
Dogs with particular ear shapes or narrow ear canals (e.g. Shar Peis), dogs with floppy ears (e.g. Basset Hounds) and those with hairy ears are at greater risk of contracting a dog ear infection.
Some ear shapes restrict airflow, allowing secretions to build up or trap moisture.
Parasites
Parasites such as ear mites can cause dog ear infections, although this is rare in dogs over the age of six months.
Underlying health conditions
Dogs with tumours, polyps, or hormone disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease are more likely to contract an ear infection. Dogs with otitis externa are also at greater risk of recurring ear infections.
When should I call my vet?
If you spot any of the following signs, you should check in with your vet for advice:
- Scratching at the ears.
- Smelly ears.
- Head shaking, ear flapping, or tilting their head to the side.
- Redness or thickening in the ears.
- Excessive wax or discharge from the ears.
You should always contact your vet if your dog has stopped eating or is unwell.
If you’ve noticed any signs of a dog ear infection, your local VetPartners practice can help you treat it safely with the right treatment.
How can my vet help my dog’s ear infection?
At your dog’s appointment, your vet will ask you some questions about your dog and examine their ears. After this, they might recommend a few further tests, if required.
Dog ear infection treatments vary depending on the cause of infection and any underlying contributory factors, but treatment options might include topical or in-ear treatments, oral tablet treatments, ear flushing or in severe cases, surgery.
