A dog scratching its ears without fleas is often caused by allergies (food or environmental), bacterial/yeast infections, or ear mites. Other causes include foreign objects lodged in the canal, excessive wax buildup, or irritation from water. Common symptoms include head shaking, odor, redness, or dark, coffee-ground-like discharge.

How can I tell if my dog has ear mites?

Signs of ear mites in dogs include intense ear scratching, head shaking, a dark, waxy discharge resembling coffee grounds, redness and inflammation, an unpleasant odor, and sometimes hair loss or scabs around the ears from excessive rubbing. You might also notice your dog tilting their head, being sensitive to touch, or showing lethargy if the infestation is severe. 

What does it mean if my dog keeps scratching his ears?

Dogs with ear mites will often shake their heads excessively and scratch their ears. An ear mite infection will cause your dog's ears to itch, which often results in them shaking their head excessively, or scratching at their ears with their paws. Ear mites can also cause your dog's ears to: produce wax.

How do you get rid of ear mites in dogs at home?

Green tea is a natural antiseptic that can help clean your dog's ears while soothing irritation. Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and use a dropper to place a few drops into your dog's ear. This will help remove mite debris and clean the area, promoting healing. Repeat daily until the mites are gone.

Can an indoor dog get ear mites?

Since ear mites are highly contagious, all pets who live in the same house are likely to become infected if one animal does. Dogs can also pick up ear mites from the environment or from contaminated bedding or toys. Dogs of all ages can be affected by ear mites.

Why Yorkie’s Tend to Itch & Have Bad Skin

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

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.

What dog breeds are prone to ear problems?

Breeds Prone to Ear Infections and Signs to Watch For

• Basset Hound.
• Bloodhound.
• Afghan Hound.
• Coon Hound.
• Springer Spaniel.
• Cocker Spaniel.
• Cavalier King Charles (high rate of Glue Ear)
• Daschund.

What can I give my dog for ear irritation at home?

Here are some home remedies you might want to try:

1. Tea. Brew some green tea, let it cool, and then use a pure cotton ball (not synthetic) to gently clean the ear. ...
2. Olive oil. A few drops of olive oil can work wonders as a natural ear cleaner. ...
3. Hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is another good cleanser. ...
4. Apple cider vinegar.

What are the symptoms of ear mites?

Pets who are infested usually experience itching, head shaking, and abnormal ear discharge. Although ear mites in cats can cause extreme discomfort, they are not typically life-threatening. However, if left untreated, they can cause secondary bacterial infections, pain, and severe inflammation in the ear canals.

Does hydrogen peroxide stop ear itching?

Yes, diluted hydrogen peroxide (3%) can help itchy ears by softening wax and reducing bacteria, but it must be used cautiously as it can also cause irritation or damage if the eardrum is ruptured, so alternatives like oil drops or seeing a doctor are often better, especially if itching persists. Always use a few drops, let it fizz and drain, and avoid it if you suspect an infection or perforated eardrum.

What kills yeast in dogs' ears?

To kill yeast in a dog's ears, a veterinarian typically prescribes antifungal ear drops containing ingredients like miconazole, ketoconazole, or terbinafine, often combined with anti-inflammatory medicine; for severe cases, oral antifungals or thorough ear cleaning are needed, but always consult a vet first as home remedies like vinegar rinses should be used cautiously and with professional guidance.
 

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.

How does a dog act when they have ear mites?

For your beloved dog or puppy, ear mites can cause intense ear irritation and discomfort. These tiny parasites feed on wax and oils in your dog's ear canals and can result in head shaking or scratching, rubbing of the ears and secondary ear infections.

What can be mistaken for ear mites in dogs?

Since ear mites are hard to see without a microscope, earwax or dirt can be mistaken for ear mites. Healthy dog ears are usually pink and don't smell. They also shouldn't have any inflammation (swelling or redness).

Can humans catch ear mites off of dogs?

Luckily, humans are highly unlikely to be infected by these parasites. On very rare occasions, however, some sensitive individuals may develop skin rashes if their pet is affected by ear mites.

What kills ear mites in dogs naturally?

Coconut oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an excellent remedy for dog ear mites. Warm a small amount of coconut oil and apply it to the inside of your dog's ears using a cotton ball. This will help suffocate the mites and relieve itching.

What do earmites look like?

Symptoms of Ear Mites in Dogs

They appear as tiny white dots. Some symptoms to look out for are brown or black waxy ear secretions and a strong odor from the ears. like scabs or dermatitis around the ears and persistent shaking of the head can also signify mite infestation.

What kills ear mites fast?

Nothing kills ear mites instantly, but prescription topical treatments (like Revolution Plus, Bravecto Plus) and some oral medications resolve infestations quickly, often after one dose by killing mites and their eggs, though cleaning and potential secondary infections need time. Natural options like tea tree or oregano oil show fast in vitro results, but veterinary-approved treatments are safer and more reliable for pets.
 

What happens if ear mites go untreated in dogs?

Ear mites, if left untreated spread, causing more of the black discharge formed by blood from your pet's ears, the mites' feces and natural ear discharge. This black granular discharge can clog your dog or cat's ears, rupture their eardrum and cause deafness.

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