The start of a dog’s ear infection typically looks like mild redness, inflammation, and light, odor-free, or slightly smelly discharge (yellow, brown, or black) inside the ear flap. Early symptoms often include frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, and tenderness or rubbing against furniture.

What are the early signs of ear infection in dogs?

8 Signs Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

• Head Tilt. A dog with an outer ear infection may tilt their head slightly because of discomfort. ...
• Ear Odor. ...
• Head Shaking. ...
• Ear Swelling. ...
• Redness in the Ear. ...
• Scabbing in the Ear. ...
• Pawing at the Ear. ...
• Discharge in the Ear.

What can be mistaken for an ear infection in dogs?

While bacterial ear infections are the most common, other potential causes of these conditions in dogs can include:

• Ear mites.
• Trauma.
• Foreign objects lodged in the ear.
• Tumors or polyps.
• Yeast.
• Fungus.

Can a dog's ear infection heal on its own?

In most cases, dog ear infections do not go away on their own. And, if you wait too long to treat an ear infection, it can become much more difficult to get under control. An untreated ear infection can lead to hearing loss, chronic health issues, and sometimes the need for expensive surgery.

How do dogs behave when they have an ear infection?

Dogs can't tell us when their ears hurt, but they show their discomfort through their behavior. One of the most obvious signs is persistent scratching at the affected ear or rubbing it against furniture or the floor. You might also notice your dog shaking its head frequently, as if trying to dislodge something.

How They Are, and Symptoms of Ear Mites in Dogs

What can be mistaken for an ear infection?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. TMJ disorders can be incredibly uncomfortable, often causing a variety of symptoms that can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, including ear infections.

How can I treat my dog's ear infection at home?

Home treatments for dog ear infections

1. Clean the Ears: Gently clean your dog's ears with a vet-approved ear cleaner. ...
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. ...
3. Coconut Oil: Apply a few drops of coconut oil to the ear.

Should I clean my dog's ear if it's infected?

If your dog's ears are red, inflamed, or painful, consult with your veterinarian prior to cleaning. Your dog may have an ear infection or a ruptured ear drum.

What breeds are prone to ear infections?

Some breeds, particularly those with large, floppy, or hairy ears (e.g., cocker spaniels, miniature poodles, Old English sheepdogs) are more prone to ear infections, but they can occur in any breed.

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 time of year do dogs get ear infections?

Ear infections in dogs can occur any time of year (especially in the summer months) for a variety of reasons: Moisture: Pups who love to swim or have their ears cleaned too often can retain moisture in their ear canals— a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.

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

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.

Can diet affect my dog's ears?

In dogs, food allergies most often cause itchy skin and ears. This can lead to secondary infections of the skin and ears. In order to be allergic to a particular protein, a dog must be repeatedly exposed. Most dogs have ingested the protein they are allergic to, for months to years prior to developing an allergy.

How do you tell if your dog has ear mites or an ear infection?

You might notice these physical symptoms as well: swelling, reddish ear wax, and redness. These symptoms are similar to yeast infections, but a significant difference is the dark granules in your dog's ears that resemble coffee grounds. These granules are ear mite discharge.

What is the one time treatment for dog ear infection?

Claro® (florfenicol, terbinafine, mometasone furoate) Otic Solution. Claro is the first FDA-approved, veterinarian-administered, single-dose treatment regimen for canine otitis externa. Just one dose per infected ear, administered by you, removes the uncertainty of client compliance.

How does a vet test for an ear infection?

Ear cytology is a cornerstone diagnostic test for ear infections in pets. During this procedure, we collect an ear discharge or debris sample using a cotton swab or ear cytology loop. The sample is then spread onto a microscope slide, stained, and examined under a microscope.

What triggers ear infections in dogs?

Overview. An ear infection is an irritating and painful overgrowth of bacteria or yeast in the ear canal, usually caused by an underlying condition such as ear mites, a skin problem, or excess earwax.

How urgent is a dog's ear infection?

Not every ear infection requires urgent care, but certain signs indicate that your dog needs emergency attention right away. Bring your pet to an urgent or emergency hospital if you notice: Severe swelling or bleeding from the ear canal. Persistent head tilt, stumbling, or loss of coordination.

Should I clean the brown stuff out of my dog's ears?

Dark brown earwax may simply be a build-up of healthy wax. Your dog's ear may just need cleaning. Gently wipe away the dirt and debris with a warm, damp cloth and dry afterward. Yeast infections (candida or Malassezia spp) commonly cause earwax to turn greasy, dark brown or reddish-brown.

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

Ear mites can also cause your dog's ears to: produce wax. become irritated, causing them to look red and inflamed. produce a dry black ear discharge.

What can I use to draw out an infection on a dog?

Warm tap water is recommended for cleaning most wounds. Warm saline (salt solution) may also be used. You can make saline by adding approximately one level teaspoon (5 mL) of salt or Epsom salt to two cups (500 mL) of water.

Are ear infections painful for dogs?

Ear infections in pets can be painful and uncomfortable, just like they are in humans. If ear infections are recurrent or persistent, they are usually secondary to a primary condition that initiates the inflammation and fuels the overgrowth of yeast or bacteria.

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.

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.

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