Dog ear infections are the second most common reason 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.
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:
The following factors increase the risk of dog ear infections:
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:
You might also notice your dog:
Signs that your dog has a middle or inner ear infection include:
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. Don’t take any chances with your dog’s ear health – book in with your vet right away.
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:
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.
Keeping your dog’s ears clean is an important part of preventing 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® Advanced 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 will 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. Then, repeat 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.
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 for life.
Yes, dog ear infections can be very painful. The inflammation, swelling, and pressure in the ear canal often lead to discomfort, itching, and pain. You may notice your dog scratching at their ears, shaking their head, or reacting when their ears are touched. In severe cases, your dog may cry or whimper due to the pain.
In some cases, yes. Dog ear infections can be linked to food allergies or sensitivities. Common triggers include ingredients like beef, chicken, dairy, soy, or wheat. These allergens can lead to skin inflammation, including in the ears, creating a favorable environment for infections. If your dog has recurring ear issues, ask your vet about trying a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet.
Some dogs may whine, cry, or vocalize when they have a dog ear infection, especially when the infection is painful or the ears are touched. Not all dogs will cry, but you may also notice signs such as excessive head shaking, rubbing their ears against furniture, or a reluctance to be touched near the head.
While most dog ear infections are caused by bacteria or yeast that are not contagious to humans, there is still a slight risk in certain cases. For example, if the infection is caused by zoonotic bacteria (rare) or if the dog has open sores that humans come into contact with, there could be a minimal risk. Always wash your hands after handling an infected ear and avoid contact with discharge.
Yes, dogs can feel quite unwell during a dog ear infection. In addition to local pain and discomfort, they may seem lethargic, lose interest in food, or become more irritable. If the infection reaches the middle or inner ear, it can affect their balance and coordination, making them appear disoriented or nauseous. Prompt veterinary care helps alleviate their discomfort and speeds up recovery.