Ear infections in dogs are extremely common. They usually resolve within a few weeks if treated appropriately, but some can be more severe. Many recurrent ear infections are due to underlying allergies. They can come back often if the underlying cause is not properly controlled.

Ear infections can affect different parts of the ear. Inflammation of the external ear canal is called otitis externa. This is the most common ear problem in dogs. Dogs suffering from allergies, dogs who swim, and dogs who have long, floppy ears are more prone to ear problems. Ear mites can also cause inflammation in the ear, but they are more common in cats.

What are ear infections in dogs?

Ear infections in dogs are a common problem:

• They can be secondary to allergies to food or environmental allergens.

• Secondary bacterial or fungal (Malassezia) overgrowth can complicate otitis.

• The signs can develop quickly overnight, or sometimes over a few days.

• Ear infections are usually easier to treat if caught early. Simple infections can clear within 1-2 weeks with appropriate treatment.

• Chronic or recurrent inflammation can lead to damaged and thickened ear canals. Then treatment becomes much more difficult.

• If the underlying cause is not controlled, ear infections can come back frequently.

• Dogs of any age or breed can develop an ear infection, although some are more prone to them.

In this article, we discuss the most common type of ear problem, otitis externa. Follow the links to find out about ear mites, otitis media and otitis interna.

Ear infections in dogs are usually easier to treat if caught quickly. However, they can worsen and lead to severe pain. Speak to one of our Joii vets as soon as possible if your dog has any ear problems.

Symptoms of ear infections in dogs

The most common signs of an ear infection in dogs include:

• Head shaking or scratching at their ears

• A brown, red, yellow or black discharge in the ears

• Redness (inflammation) inside the ear canal

• A bad or unusual smell coming from the ears

• Sores, scabs or scratches around the ears

• Pain or sensitivity when the ears are touched

• Prolonged inflammation can lead to thickening and narrowing of the canal

If left untreated, constant head shaking can lead to an aural haematoma

Are some dogs more at risk of ear infections than others?

Any dog, regardless of age or breed, can develop an ear infection.

Some breeds are more prone to ear infections, including:

• Basset Hounds, Shar-Peis, Labradoodles, Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Cockapoos, Spaniels, Bulldogs, Bichon Frise, and Pugs.

This is due to a combination of factors, including ear shape, hair inside the ear canal, skin disease and allergies. Dogs with floppy ears are generally more prone to otitis externa than those with erect ears.

Regular exposure to moisture can also increase the risk. This includes dogs that swim or frequently get their ears wet during bathing. Excessive or inappropriate ear cleaning can also irritate the ear canal.

How are ear infections diagnosed in dogs?

For first-time infections:

• A physical examination, including looking into the ear canal with an otoscope, may be all that is needed.

• Your vet may take a swab from the ear and examine it under a microscope (cytology). This can show whether yeast, bacteria or inflammatory cells are present and help guide treatment.

Recurring or severe infections:

• Your vet may recommend a more thorough ear examination and ear flush under sedation or anaesthesia, especially if the ear is very painful.

• Your vet may recommend bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing, particularly if previous treatment has not worked.

What’s the treatment for ear infections in dogs?

Many cases of ear infections in dogs are treated with ear cleaners and/or medicated ear drops.

• Ear cleaners can help remove wax, debris and discharge from the ear canal. Keeping the ear clean can also help topical medication reach the affected areas.

• Ear drops come in different formulations and may need to be given daily or at other intervals, depending on the product and the severity of the infection. They may contain antibiotics, antifungal medication, anti-inflammatory medication, or a combination of these.

Other treatments may include:

• Anti-itch medication: especially if underlying allergies are suspected

• Pain relief

• Surgery: for severe or chronic ear disease

Antibiotics are not needed for every ear infection. Your vet may examine a sample from the ear to check for bacteria and yeast before deciding which treatment is appropriate. Where possible, antibiotics are used only when they are needed, as unnecessary use can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

How to help your dog with an ear infection at home

• Use any medication exactly as advised by your vet. Don’t skip doses. If you are struggling to apply ear drops or cleaners, let your vet know right away. An alternative treatment, such as a longer-acting ear medication, may be an option in some cases.

• Read our article that explains how to apply ear drops at home.

• Check your dog's ears regularly. If the symptoms are getting worse or are not improving with treatment, speak to your vet as soon as possible.

• A protective collar can help prevent your dog from scratching and causing further damage to the skin around their ears.

• If allergies are contributing to your dog's ear problems, your vet may recommend an appropriate diet or other allergy treatment. Foods such as Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete are formulated to help manage the signs of both food and environmental allergies, but should be used under veterinary guidance.

Some mild cases of otitis may be managed with an appropriate medicated ear cleaner, depending on the underlying cause. Speak to a Joii vet for advice on the most appropriate treatment for your dog.

Tips on how to live with a dog with recurrent ear infections

Ear infections are often linked to an underlying problem, such as allergies. Treating the underlying cause can help reduce the risk of ear infections coming back and, in some dogs, may prevent them from recurring.

Allergies can be investigated by:

• Doing a strict diet trial with a hydrolysed or appropriate novel protein diet for at least 8 weeks

• Making sure your dog is on regular parasite preventative

• Allergy testing may be considered if environmental allergies are suspected

Regular ear cleaning may help some dogs with recurrent ear problems. The frequency should be based on your dog's individual needs.

Vet recommended products

Tips on how to prevent ear infections in dogs

• Speak to a vet as soon as symptoms of an ear problem appear. Ear disease is generally easier to manage before it becomes chronic.

• Make sure your dog has appropriate parasite prevention.

• Reduce excess moisture. Dry your dog's ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming.

• If your dog's ears are very hairy, ask your vet or groomer whether trimming the hair around the ear opening would be helpful. Avoid routinely plucking hair from inside the ear canal unless your vet specifically recommends it.

Is my family at risk of catching an ear infection from my dog?

Ear infections do not spread between dogs or from dogs to humans.

When should you be worried about ear infections in dogs?

Seek help from a vet if:

• Your dog's ears are swollen or painful

• Your dog has a head tilt or is off balance

• Your dog's ear infection is not clearing with treatment

• Your dog has yellow or green discharge in their ears

Speak to one of our Joii vets if:

• Your dog has dirty ears

• You need any advice about ear cleaning and what to use

• You would like help doing a diet trial with your dog

• You would like advice about appropriate food for your dog with ear problems or allergies