For recurrent dog ear infections, focus on keeping ears dry and clean with vet-approved solutions, managing underlying allergies (food/environmental) through diet or meds, preventing moisture from baths/swimming, and regular vet checks to identify the root cause (mites, polyps) for long-term management, potentially including deep cleaning or surgery for severe cases.

How to treat recurring ear infections in dogs?

The typical treatment involves once daily cleansing with a medicated ear cleanser containing acetic acid, such at Epi-otic or Vet Solutions. An anti-fungal and anti-bacterial ointment such at Otomax is then used in the ear twice daily for about 10 days. I find that this combination works in most dogs.

What foods give dogs ear infections?

What are some common food allergens that can cause ear infections in dogs? Common culprits include dairy, wheat, soy, beef, chicken, and corn. However, dogs can develop allergies to almost any ingredient.

What is the best home remedy for dog ear infection?

Home treatments for dog ear infections

Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. Apply a small amount to the ear with a cotton ball and massage the base of the ear. Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic properties that can help fight infection.

How do I stop my dog from getting ear infections?

Preventing ear infections is more effective than treating them. Consider these preventative measures: Regular Ear Checks and Cleaning: Learn how to safely clean your dog's ears to remove debris and moisture. Avoid over-cleaning, as this can strip the ear canal of natural oils that protect against infection.

Stop Recurring Dog Ear Infections

What is the primary cause of ear infections in dogs?

Allergic Otitis: One of the most common sources of ear infection is allergies. Allergies cause inflammation of the skin lining the ear canal which then can lead to the overgrowth of infectious agents like yeast and bacteria.

How do you stop recurring ear infections?

The following tips may help prevent relapses of chronic ear infections:

1. Stay away from cigarette smoke. Smoke and secondhand smoke can irritate the eustachian tube. ...
2. Avoid using cotton swabs or Q-tips. ...
3. Wash your hands regularly.

Can I treat my dog's ear infection without going to the vet?

Many ear infections won't heal on their own and require veterinary attention. Fortunately, if symptoms are minor, you can manage and treat the dog's ears at home, potentially avoiding a trip to the veterinarian. However, severe cases and chronic infections may need professional veterinary care.

What are the symptoms of a yeast ear infection in dogs?

If your dog has a yeast ear infection you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

• Red or brown waxy discharge in the ear.
• Itching, scratching & pawing at the ear.
• A cheesy or musty smell coming from the ear.
• Red or irritated ear.

Can hydrogen peroxide cure an ear infection in dogs?

We do not recommend the use of alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your dog's ears. These products can cause inflammation of the ear canal and further exacerbate infections. Your veterinarian can provide recommendations on the best products to use.

What kills ear bacteria in dogs?

If your dog has a very severe infection, they may need antibiotic tablets as well as eardrops. However, eardrops are usually sufficient. Treating the underlying cause. Most ear infections are caused by an underlying condition for example allergic skin disease.

What food can trigger an ear infection?

Foods that can worsen ENT health

• Dairy. “Dairy can contribute to ear infections in young children, believed to be due to a milk allergy that is often unknown or undiagnosed,” Lessem said. ...
• Alcohol. ...
• Processed foods. ...
• Histamine-rich foods.

What foods are dogs not allowed to ear?

Common toxic foods for dogs

• Chocolate. Chocolate can be toxic for dogs, even in quite small amounts. ...
• Grapes, raisins and currants. Grapes and raisins can put dogs at risk of kidney failure – even a small amount can make your dog seriously ill. ...
• Onions, garlic, chives and leek. ...
• Xylitol. ...
• Avocado. ...
• Macadamia nuts. ...
• Bread dough.

What is the root cause of chronic ear infections?

If the eustachian tube becomes blocked, fluid can build up. When this happens, infection can occur. A chronic ear infection develops when fluid or an infection behind the eardrum does not go away.

What is the strongest natural antibiotic for dogs without a vet?

Manuka honey from New Zealand is an amazing natural anti-biotic. Manuka honey can be used for cuts, wounds and abscesses. A thin layer of honey can help prevent infection and promote healing. A small amount (depending on your dog's size) can also help soothe throat infections and support the immune system.

Why won't my dog's ear infection go away?

There can be many reasons your dog continues to get recurrent ear infections. The most common cause is allergies, which are usually caused by food or environmental allergies. But we'll focus on those later. Endocrine (hormonal) disease can also be a trigger for recurrent otitis.

What is the brown stuff in my dog's ears?

The Nature of Brown Discharge

Dark Brown, Coffee Ground-like Discharge: This can be a sign of ear mites, which are more common in puppies but can affect dogs of any age. Thick, Sticky Brown Discharge: Often associated with a bacterial infection, this type of discharge is usually accompanied by a potent smell.

How do I know if my dog's ear infection is fungal or bacterial?

Yeast ear infections tend to cause more irritation which results in more intense and continuous scratching. Bacterial ear infections will still cause redness, inflammation and scratching. But will typically not cause as much irritation as yeast infections.

How to eliminate yeast in dogs' ears?

Today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved DuOtic (terbinafine and betamethasone acetate otic gel) for the treatment of otitis externa in dogs, associated with susceptible strains of yeast (Malassezia pachydermatis).

What is the best over the counter medicine for dogs ear infection?

Some of the most popular dog ear drops include Zymox, Tresaderm, Synotic, Baytril, Surolan, and Mometavet. Cleansers – Keeping your dog's ears clean can be a great way to prevent future ear infections.

Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?

You clean them, you treat them, and yet they keep coming back. Frequent ear infections aren't just a nuisance; they're a sign that something deeper is wrong. Allergies, parasites, and moisture buildup are common culprits.

What is a natural antibiotic for ear infection?

Garlic Oil: Garlic has natural antibacterial properties. You can use garlic-infused oil as ear drops, but make sure it's properly prepared and warm. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps thin mucus and can promote drainage. Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm liquids like tea.

What is a Stage 3 ear infection?

Ear Infection Stages

Stage 3: Chronic Otitis Media - This stage involves persistent fluid buildup in the middle ear and may result in long-term hearing loss if left untreated.

What can trigger ear infections?

A bacterium or virus in the middle ear causes an ear infection. This infection often comes from another illness, such as a cold, flu or allergy. These can cause the inside the nose, throat and ears to be swollen and stuffy.

How often is too often for an ear infection?

Many children experience repeated ear infections. As long as they are spaced out and the child recovers completely between episodes, no intervention is needed. For children who have four ear infection within 6 months or six within 12 months, an evaluation by an the Ear Nose and Throat specialist is recommended.

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