Every dog has a natural balance of yeast and bacteria inside the ear canal. Sometimes, an overgrowth of bacteria can cause infection. Dog ear infections, also known as Otisis, can affect the inner, middle or outer ear.
Ear infections can last anywhere from a few days to a of couple weeks. You will likely be able to tell if your dog is uncomfortable. Some breeds are more susceptible to ear infections than others. These breeds include Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dobermans, Poodles or Schnauzers.
If an ear infection goes untreated, it can pass through the ear canal and into the central nerve system, which can cause hearing loss, illness and even death.
Causes of an ear infections:
- Excess moisture
- Allergies
- Weak immune system
- Overproduction of yeast cells
- Poor overall hygiene
Symptoms of ear infections:
When it comes to canine ear infections, you will be able to tell your dog is uncomfortable. You should get your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible to begin treatment right away, as ear infections will easily affect your dog’s everyday activities.
Some symptoms to look out for:
- An unusual or foul odor coming from the ear.
- Excessive scratching, rubbing or head shaking. Head tilting is also common with ear infections, because your dog is feeling unbalanced.
- Redness and swelling on the inner canal or the ear flaps.
- Discharge from the ears. This discharge may be black, bloody, chunky or yellow in color. Crusts tend to develop on the outer ear when your dog has an ear infection as well.
Treatment options:
Depending on the severity of your dog’s ear infection, your veterinarian could prescribe several different treatments. Treating an ear infection can take some time, so it is important to identify as soon as possible. Your veterinarian may prescribe different ointments to apply to the ear, or drops to cure inner infections.
Antibiotics will help speed up the healing process and reduce redness and swelling during a bacterial ear infection. However, antibiotics are not to be used as the main treatment, as they do not drain fluids in the ear canal.
There are many different home remedies available that you can use to help ease inflammation, keep the ear canals clean and help to ease any pain associated with ear infections.
You can learn more about dog ear infection types, treatments, home remedies as well as view pictures of dog ear infections at www.dogearinfectionhelp.com
