Common Dog Ear Infections (Otitis) – Vet Advice and Care Tips for 2025 🐾🦻

Dr Duncan Houston explains the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of one of the most frequent veterinary concerns—ear infections (otitis) in dogs. Whether your dog’s ears are floppy, hairy, or upright, knowing how to care for them helps prevent discomfort and complications. Let’s dive into this essential ear health guide for 2025! 🐶🧴

📉 Why Are Dog Ear Infections So Common?

Unlike the human ear canal, which travels in a straight line, a dog’s ear canal forms a “J” shape with both vertical and horizontal segments. This shape traps moisture, wax, and debris, making it harder for the ear to “self-clean.” When that gunk accumulates, it feeds bacteria and yeast, leading to infection. 🧫

🧬 Common Causes of Otitis in Dogs

• Allergies: Skin allergies often cause inflammation in the ears, leading to excess wax and secondary infections.
• Ear mites: Especially in puppies, these parasites can trigger severe irritation and discharge.
• Foreign bodies: Grass awns, foxtails, or debris can get lodged in the ear canal and create irritation.
• Hair in ear canals: Common in breeds like poodles and schnauzers, ear hair traps moisture and wax.
• Moisture: Water from baths or swimming can remain trapped, creating a warm, wet environment for infection.

🔍 Signs Your Dog Might Have an Ear Infection

• Scratching or pawing at ears 🐾
• Shaking head frequently 🤯
• Unusual odor from the ears 👃
• Redness or swelling of the ear canal 🔴
• Yellow, brown, or bloody discharge 💧
• Head tilt or imbalance (in severe cases) 🌀

🧼 Understanding Treatment Levels

🔹 Level One: Simple Ear Infections

Most ear infections are straightforward. Your vet will:

• Perform an ear flush to clean out wax and debris (sedation may be used for comfort)
• Collect microscopic samples to determine infection type
• Prescribe topical ear drops or ointments for at-home use

✅ A follow-up check in 1–2 weeks ensures the infection has resolved and prevents premature discontinuation of treatment.

🔹 Level Two: Chronic or Recurrent Infections

Infections that don’t resolve or keep coming back require further evaluation:

• Culture and sensitivity tests to identify the specific bacteria or yeast
• Regular disinfecting ear washes as part of routine care
• Testing for underlying issues like food/environmental allergies or thyroid dysfunction

🔹 Level Three: The End-Stage Ear

When ear infections become uncontrollable through medication alone, surgical solutions may be necessary:

• Lateral ear resection: Opening the vertical canal to allow for better cleaning
• Total ear canal ablation: Complete removal and closure of the ear canal

⚠️ These are last-resort options when chronic inflammation and tissue overgrowth block the canal or damage surrounding structures.

⚠️ Serious Complications of Otitis

1. Proliferative Canal Disease & Middle Ear Infection

Repeated or untreated infections can lead to:

• Scarring and tissue thickening in the ear canal
• Mineralization of tissues, making cleaning or medication ineffective
• Infection spread to the middle ear, causing balance issues or facial nerve damage

Vestibular signs include:

• Head tilt
• Loss of balance or falling to one side
• Rapid eye movements (nystagmus)
• Facial paralysis or slack jaw on one side

2. Aural Hematoma

When dogs shake or scratch too hard due to ear discomfort, the blood vessels in the ear flap (pinna) can burst, causing a fluid-filled swelling. 🩸

• Treatment: Surgical drainage and bandaging under anesthesia
• Without surgery: The ear may scar permanently, resulting in a “crinkled” look

🧽 At-Home Care & Prevention Tips

• Clean regularly: Use vet-approved ear cleaners—not alcohol or hydrogen peroxide
• Keep ears dry: Always dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
• Manage allergies: Treat underlying skin or food allergies to prevent recurring infections
• Routine ear checks: Especially for floppy or hairy-eared breeds
• Avoid over-cleaning: Can cause irritation and lead to inflammation

🐾 Breed Considerations

Certain breeds are more prone to ear infections due to anatomy or genetics:

• Shar-Pei: Narrow ear canals trap wax and debris
• Poodles & Schnauzers: Hair growth deep inside the canal requires plucking and cleaning
• Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels: Floppy ears limit airflow and retain moisture

🗓️ How Often Should You Check a Dog’s Ears?

📞 When to Contact Ask A Vet

If your dog shows signs of an ear infection—scratching, head shaking, odor, or discharge—it’s time to reach out for support. 🐕💬

• Ask A Vet offers remote consultations
• Get fast guidance on which ear treatments to use
• Access veterinary expertise from your home

Download the Ask A Vet app for 24/7 access to licensed veterinary help. Your dog’s comfort and health start with informed, timely care. 📲🐾