How Can I Tell If My Dog Has an Ear Infection?

Ear infections are among the most common health problems in dogs. These infections, medically termed otitis externa, occur when bacteria, yeast, or sometimes parasites overpopulate the ear canal, causing discomfort and inflammation. Recognising the signs of an ear infection early is essential for your dog’s comfort and well-being. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to chronic pain, hearing loss, or more severe complications.

This guide will help you identify the symptoms of an ear infection in your dog, explore common causes, and provide practical advice on prevention and treatment.

Signs of an Ear Infection in Dogs

Dogs typically show specific symptoms when they have an ear infection. Look out for the following:

1. Frequent Head Shaking or Tilting
   If your dog is shaking their head more often than usual or tilting their head to one side, it could indicate irritation or discomfort in one or both ears.
2. Scratching at the Ears
   Excessive scratching or pawing at the ears often suggests inflammation or itchiness caused by an infection.
3. Redness and Swelling
   Healthy ears should appear pale pink and free of redness or swelling. Infected ears may appear inflamed, with noticeable redness or puffiness around the ear canal or flap.
4. Discharge
   Infections can produce discharge that varies in colour and consistency, depending on the cause. Common types include brown, yellow, or greenish fluid. 
5. Unpleasant Smell
   A bad smell emanating from your dog’s ears strongly suggests bacterial or yeast overgrowth, both common causes of infection.
6. Crusting or Scabs
   Scaly patches, crusting, or scabs around the ears may indicate an ongoing infection, worsened by scratching or secondary trauma.
7. Changes in Behaviour
   Dogs in pain may become more irritable, withdraw from contact, or avoid having their head touched. They may also appear less energetic or show a reduced appetite.
8. Hearing Loss
   In severe cases, infections can temporarily or permanently affect your dog’s hearing. They may not respond to sounds they would normally react to.

When to See a Vet

If you notice any of the following, contact your vet promptly:

• Persistent scratching or head shaking
• Discharge or a foul smell
• Redness or swelling in the ears
• Signs of pain or discomfort

What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?

Understanding the causes of ear infections can help prevent future occurrences:

1. Moisture and Warmth
   Floppy-eared breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, are prone to infections due to the warm, moist environment inside their ears, especially after swimming or bathing.
2. Allergies
   Food allergies or environmental allergens (e.g., pollen or dust mites) can trigger inflammation, increasing the risk of infection.
3. Foreign Objects
   Grass seeds, dirt, or debris lodged in the ear canal can irritate and lead to infection.
4. Ear Mites
   Tiny parasites, more common in puppies, can infest the ears, causing intense itching and irritation.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions
   Issues such as hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, or hormonal imbalances can predispose dogs to recurrent ear infections.
6. Breed and Anatomy
   Dogs with narrow ear canals, hairy ear canals, or floppy ears are more susceptible to infections.
7. Excessive Wax or Poor Hygiene
   An overproduction of wax or lack of regular cleaning can create an environment conducive to bacterial or yeast growth.

Preventing Ear Infections

Prevention is key to maintaining your dog’s ear health:

1. Regular Cleaning
   Incorporate ear cleaning into your grooming routine, especially for breeds prone to infections. Avoid over-cleaning, as this can irritate the ears.
2. Dry Ears After Swimming or Bathing
   Use a soft towel to gently dry your dog’s ears after water exposure.
3. Routine Vet Checks
   Regular veterinary check-ups can catch early signs of infection.
4. Monitor for Allergies
   Work with your vet to identify and manage allergies.
5. Inspect Ears Regularly
   Look for redness, swelling, or unusual odours as part of your dog’s grooming routine.

Diagnosing an Ear Infection

If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, consult your vet. Mild cases can worsen quickly without appropriate treatment. Here’s what you can expect during a vet visit:

1. Physical Examination
   The vet will examine your dog’s ears for redness, swelling, discharge, or foreign objects.
2. Ear Swab Analysis
   A swab from the ear canal may be examined under a microscope or sent to a lab to determine if bacteria, yeast, or mites are present.
3. Discussion of Symptoms
   Be prepared to discuss when the symptoms started, any recent swimming or grooming, and other relevant history.

Treating an Ear Infection

Treatment depends on the cause but often includes:

1. Medications
   Topical ear drops targeting bacteria, yeast, or inflammation are common. Severe cases may require oral antibiotics or antifungal medications.
2. Professional Cleaning
   Your vet may clean your dog’s ears to remove debris and discharge. They may also recommend a suitable cleaning solution for home use.
3. Addressing Underlying Issues
   If allergies or medical conditions are contributing to the infection, your vet will advise on long-term management.

How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears Safely

Regular ear cleaning is key to preventing infections, but over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Use a Vet-Recommended Solution
   Avoid home remedies. Opt for a cleaning solution specifically designed for dogs.
2. Gather Supplies
   You’ll need cotton wool or gauze pads and a suitable cleaning solution. Never use cotton swabs as they can push debris further into the ear.
3. Gently Apply the Solution
   Lift your dog’s ear flap and squeeze a small amount of the cleaning solution into the ear canal.
4. Massage the Base of the Ear
   Gently massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds to help loosen debris.
5. Wipe Away Excess Solution
   Use cotton wool or gauze to clean the outer ear. Do not insert anything into the ear canal.
6. Let Your Dog Shake It Out
   Allow your dog to shake their head to remove any remaining solution.

Conclusion

Ear infections are uncomfortable for dogs but highly treatable with prompt veterinary care. By recognising the signs early, addressing underlying causes, and practising good ear hygiene, you can help prevent infections and keep your dog’s ears healthy.

If you suspect an ear infection, don’t delay—book an appointment with your vet for diagnosis and treatment. A healthy dog is a happy dog, and maintaining clean, infection-free ears is a big part of their overall health.