Ear Infection in Dogs

Ear infections are quite common in all breeds of dog, as canines tend to have larger ear canals than other pets. Here, our Killen vets discuss the different types of ear infections in dogs, their symptoms, their causes, and how they are treated.

Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections are common in dogs, but did you know there are different types, and different ramifications when left untreated?

But what if your dog is asymptomatic, and what can happen if the infection is left untreated? Today, our Greensboro vets answer a number of questions our clients have asked us about ear infections in dogs.

There are actually three types of ear infection in dogs, and they include:

Otitis Externa (Outer Ear)

Also referred to as “infection of the external ear canal”, or “otitis externa”, outer ear infection is one of the most common types found in dogs.

Otitis Media (Middle Ear) and Otitis Interna (Inner Ear)

If outer ear infections aren’t detected or treated, they can often lead to middle and inner ear infections. These can turn very serious and sometimes lead to vestibular symptoms, in addition to deafness and facial paralysis. That’s why it’s critical that outer ear infections are detected early, and that every reasonable effort to prevent infection is made.

Which dog breeds are susceptible to ear infections?

Due to the shape of their ear canals, some breeds are more prone to ear infection, including those with large, hairy or floppy ears such as Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles. However, ear infections can happen in any breed.

Symptoms of Ear Infection in Dogs

Aside from wax buildup and discharge in the ear canal, some dogs will not show any symptoms of ear infection and in others, serious symptoms can appear. Serious symptoms may include:

• Odor
• Scratching at the affected ear
• Head shaking
• Dark discharge
• Pain
• Itchiness
• Redness or swelling in the ear canal
• Crusting or scabs in the ears

Causes of Ear Infection in Dogs

More fluid tends to collect in dogs’ ear canals than humans, due to our furry friends’ L-shaped ear canal. This leaves them more vulnerable to infection.

Bacteria, yeast or a mix of both are common causes of infection. Other factors that can contribute to infections include:

• Injury to ear canal
• Allergies (skin diseases or food sensitivities)
• Moisture, which creates an environment where yeast and bacteria thrive, causing bacterial ear infections in dogs
• Wax buildup

Diagnosis & Treatment

Prepare to brief your vet on your dog’s medical history, ear infection symptoms, recent activities, swimming, grooming and diet. The veterinarian will then perform a physical examination, including a close inspection of the ears.

A medicated ear cleanser can be used to clean your dog’s ears, before the vet prescribes a topical medication for at-home use. Oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed for severe cases.

While most uncomplicated infections will clear up within 1 to 2 weeks, severe symptoms or underlying conditions may lead to chronic ear infection or take longer to be resolved.

What can happen if my dog’s ear infection is left untreated?

A qualified vet will need to treat your dog right away if he is showing signs of ear infection. An untreated ear infection or lapses in treatment can develop into severe infection and lead to serious issues.

If antibiotics are prescribed, ensure the full course of treatment is completed, even if your dog’s ear infection looks as if it’s cleared up before the antibiotics are finished. As mentioned above, untreated outer ear infections may lead to more serious middle and inner ear infections.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.