Ear infection in dogs

Ear infections are common in dogs. They generally happen in both ears at once and tend to recur. Here, we show you how to spot the symptoms and get a proper diagnosis. You can also find out what treatment involves.

Ear infections in dogs are painful. If left untreated, they can cause permanent damage to a dog’s hearing. It's best to seek vet attention if your dog shows any signs of infection.

Symptoms of ear infection in dogs

There are obvious symptoms associated with their ears:

• Itchy ears. leading to scratching
• Pain when their heads or ears are touched
• Ear discharge
• Swelling and redness around their ears
• Unpleasant smell coming from their ears

There are also other symptoms:

• Shaking their head often
• Holding their head to the side
• Itchy skin (skin problems are often associated with ear infections)

Diagnosing ear infection in dogs

If your dog shows any signs of an ear infection, call your vet for an appointment. They will inspect the entrance of your dog's ear canal for swelling, inflammation or discharge. They may need to take samples.

Your vet may also use an otoscope to give them a better view of the inside of your dog's ear. And be prepared for them to use the technical term for ear infection - 'otitis'.

Treating ear infection in dogs

Treatment for ear infections depends on the cause. Your vet may prescribe:

• medication to reduce pain and swelling
• ear cleaner or medicated ear drops
• surgery in serious cases, if your dog’s infection cannot be managed medically

Causes of ear infection in dogs

Ear infection is most commonly caused by:

• skin allergies

Other causes of ear infection are:

• bacterial or yeast infections
• parasites, such as ear mites or harvest mites
• foreign bodies such as grass seeds stuck in the ear canal
• growths or tumours