The most common ear problem in dogs is otitis externa, which is inflammation of the outer ear canal. It is frequently caused by infections from bacteria or yeast, often triggered by underlying allergies, ear mites, or moisture buildup. Common symptoms include intense scratching, head shaking, odor, redness, and discharge.

What are common ear problems in dogs?

Some common examples are: Bacterial and yeast infections. Ear mites. Ear wax or dirt buildup.

Can an ear infection cause vomiting?

Fluid draining from ear. Feeling of being off balance. Trouble hearing. Nausea and vomiting.

How to know if dog ear infection is bacterial or fungal?

Yeast vs Bacterial Ear Infection in Dogs: How to Tell the...

1. Odor: Yeast infections tend to have a musty, sweet smell, while bacterial infections smell more foul and unpleasant.
2. Discharge: Yeast infections usually produce a brown, waxy discharge, while bacterial infections often produce yellow or green pus.

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.

Dog Ear infections! The two most common causes of dog ear infections! Dr. Dan explains.

How do dogs act when they have ear infections?

The most common signs of dog ear infections include head shaking, odor, redness, swelling, and discharge from the ear. Ear infections are one of the most frequent reasons dogs visit the veterinarian.

How to tell if an ear infection is bacterial or fungal?

Symptom Comparison

Understanding these differences helps you communicate better with your healthcare provider and can speed up proper diagnosis: Pain levels: Bacterial infections cause severe, throbbing pain (rated 7-9/10 by most patients); fungal infections typically cause mild discomfort (2-3/10)

What does a yeast infection in dogs' ears look like?

Signs That Your Dog May Have A Yeast Ear Infection

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.

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.

What foods cause yeast infections in dogs' ears?

Allergens that lots of dogs are sensitive to, such as grain or dairy products, could be responsible for triggering their yeast infections. Going for a grain-free dog food and/or avoiding dairy products and other common allergens entirely will likely help.

What are the red flags of ear infection?

Acute onset of symptoms, including: In older children and adults — earache. In younger children — holding, tugging, or rubbing of the ear, or non-specific symptoms such as fever, crying, poor feeding, restlessness, behavioural changes, cough, or rhinorrhoea.

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 are signs an ear infection is getting worse?

Seek emergency care if you have any of the following symptoms: Pain in an ear with or without fever. Itching of the ear or ear canal. Loss of hearing or difficulty hearing in one or both ears.

When to worry about dogs' ears?

Ear problems tend to cause swelling, redness, pain, a bad smell, itchiness, and head shaking. Severe ear problems that affect deep inside the ear can also cause symptoms such as loss of balance, a head tilt, and flickering eye movements. Always contact your vet if you think your dog might have an ear problem.

What do vets give dogs for ear problems?

Typically, vets will prescribe ear drops to help your dog recover from an ear infection. They may be antibiotic or anti-fungal ear drops if the cause of the infection is a bacterial or fungal one. Your vet will test your dog's ears to determine which is most appropriate.

What dog breed is most 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.

What is a silent ear infection?

Middle Ear Fluid (Otitis Media with Effusion)

The condition is also called a silent ear infection because many children have no symptoms. Some children, though, may rub their ear or experience mild pain, sleep disturbances, unexplained clumsiness, muffled hearing, or delays in language and speech development.

What other symptoms come with an ear infection?

Symptoms of an ear infection

• pain inside the ear (earache)
• a high temperature.
• difficulty hearing.
• discharge running out of the ear.
• a feeling of pressure or fullness inside the ear.
• itching and irritation in and around the ear.
• scaly skin in and around the ear.

How to flush out an ear infection?

Use a clean dropper to put a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear; you should use just enough to fill the ear. Wait for the liquid to fizz and then let it drain out of your ear.

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

Yeast ear infections tend to have a distinct odor and have a darker brown discharge. Bacterial ear infections are usually a lighter brown or yellow color. Most dogs have a yeast infection when they have an otitis externa. Infections of the middle and inner ear are usually bacterial.

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.

What dog breeds are prone to yeast infections?

There are certain breeds thought to be genetically predisposed to developing yeast infections. These breeds include West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Cocker Spaniel, Silky Terrier, Australian Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Chihuahua, Poodle, Shetland Sheepdog, Lhasa Apso, and Dachshund.

What are the first signs of a fungal ear infection?

Some signs that you could be dealing with otomycosis include itchy, flaky, swollen, and red skin of the ear. You may also experience ear drainage, fullness, or a loss of hearing. Discharge is incredibly common with fungal infections. If you notice these symptoms, it's a good idea to see an ENT doctor.

Is an ear infection an emergency for dogs?

Ear infections can be a very common problem for dogs, with some breeds being more prone to them than others. Your daytime vet can routinely manage ear infections in dogs, but if your dog is in a lot of pain, you may want to consult an emergency vet.

What kills ear fungus naturally?

A fungal ear infection home remedy may be appropriate in mild cases. Some options that may be effective include diluted hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide or a rubbing alcohol and white vinegar mixture. However, it's still best to consult with a medical professional before using any kind of home remedy.

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