Dog ear infections may be common, but it doesn’t mean they’re not uncomfortable for your dog. A small shake of the head or a bit of scratching around the ear might not seem serious at first, but these are often the earliest signs something isn’t right. Left untreated, a simple ear infection can become painful and difficult to manage.
At Plus One Vet Nundah, we see dogs every week dealing with ear problems. Some have been quietly uncomfortable for days while others have developed more serious infections that need immediate care. We’ve created this guide so you can tell the signs of dog ear infections, the causes so you can help prevent them and when to book in to see a vet.
What causes ear infections in dogs?
A lot of the reason why ear infections in dogs are so common is because of the shape of the ear itself. The long, L-shaped ear canal in dogs makes it easy for moisture and wax to become trapped, which is a trap for dirt and bacteria. It creates the perfect environment for infections, especially breeds with floppy ears or thick coats around the ear where air can’t flow through to keep things dry.
Most common causes of dog ear infections:
- Moisture left after swimming or bathing
- Allergies that cause inflammation in the ear canal
- Excessive ear wax or trapped dirt
- Ear mites or foreign materials, like grass
- Hormonal changes or an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria.
If you live in a more humid climate, like in Queensland, dog ear infections can appear and escalate quickly. Checking your dog’s ears regularly can help you catch those early signs before they become painful.
Itchy Dog Ears & Other Dog Ear Infection Symptoms
Some dog ear infections symptoms can be easy to miss, while others are an obvious sign your pet is in discomfort or pain. Some common signs of a dog ear infection to keep an eye out for include:
- Redness or swelling around the ear
- An unpleasant smell coming from the ear canal
- Yellow, brown or bloody discharge
- Whining or pulling away when the ear is touched
- Scratching or rubbing the side of their face.
There’s also the quieter ways your dog may show they’re uncomfortable. You may notice your pooch sleeping more, reducing pats near the head or shaking their head repeatedly.
When to Get Your Dog to a Vet For a Suspected Ear Infection
It’s best not to wait too long to get to a vet if you suspect your dog has an ear inspection. Even a mild infection can get worse quickly and spread deeper into the ear canal, causing more pain and a longer recovery. Early care is always easier for both you and your dog.
How do vets treat dog ear infections?
When you take your dog to the vet for an infection, they will start by looking inside the ear canal and inspecting its condition. They may take a small sample to see what type of bacteria or yeast is in the ear before choosing a medication to make sure the right treatment is given. Once they know what’s going on, treatment options may include:
- Cleaning and drying the ear canal
- Prescribed antibiotic or antifungal ear drugs
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling or pain
- Allergy management or ear flushes for recurring infections.
Home care is also a big part of your dog’s recovery. It’s important you keep their ears dry, use only vet-approved cleaners and follow the vet’s instructions for medication. Even when your dog seems better, make sure they finish the full course of any medication to help prevent the infection from returning.
