As many as 20 percent of dogs have some form of ear disease. Dogs are more prone to ear infections than humans because of the shape of their ear canals.
Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections
- Head shaking
- Scratching at the affected ear
- Dark discharge
- Odor
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal
- Pain
- Itchiness
- Crusting or scabs in the ears
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
The canine ear canal is more vertical than that of a human, forming an L-shape that tends to hold in fluid. This makes dogs more prone to ear infections. Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria, yeast, or a combination of both. In puppies, ear mites can also be a source of infection.
Factors that may predispose your dog to ear infections
- Moisture, which can create a prime growing environment for bacteria and yeast allergies, which lead to ear disease in about 50 percent of dogs with allergic skin disease and 80 percent of dogs with food sensitivities.
- Endocrine disorders, such as thyroid disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Wax buildup
- Foreign bodies
- Injury to the ear canal
- Excessive cleaning
Quick treatment is necessary not only for your dog’s comfort (these conditions can be painful!), but also to prevent the spread of infection to the middle and inner ear. Do not try to treat ear infections at home.
If your dog is showing any of the common signs of ear infections, it’s important to
contact us immediately on 0999 885 1219 / 035 528 5015 or message us on Facebook.
Remember, all profits from Waggin Tails Vet Clinic go directly to the Dumaguete Animal Sanctuary to help them with the financial burden of saving strays in Dumaguete.