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Types of Ear Infections<\/h4>\nDog Ear Infection Symptoms. Understanding and Treating Dog Ear Infections. Dog owners often recognize the early signs of an ear infection…whining, scratching, and head shaking. These infections are common, especially in breeds with floppy ears like Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels. Around 20% of dogs experience some form of ear disease, affecting one or both ears. Fortunately, proper care and preventive measures can reduce the severity and frequency of infections.<\/p>\n
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Types of Ear Infections<\/h4>\nThere are three types:<\/p>\n
While some dogs show only wax buildup or discharge, many experience discomfort, including:<\/p>\n
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Causes of Ear Infections<\/h4>\nDogs are prone to infections due to their L-shaped ear canal, which retains moisture. Infections are often caused by bacteria, yeast, or ear mites (in puppies). Contributing factors include:<\/p>\n
If your dog shows symptoms, consult a vet promptly. Delaying treatment can allow infections to spread, causing severe complications. Your vet will ask about symptoms, medical history, medications, diet, ear cleaning habits, and recent activities like swimming or grooming.<\/p>\n
A physical exam may include:<\/p>\n
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Are you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and we’ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!<\/span><\/p>\n Your vet will clean the ear with a medicated solution and may prescribe prescription ear drops. Severe cases may require oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication.<\/p>\n Most infections clear up within 1 to 2 weeks, but chronic cases may take months. In extreme cases, surgery (Total Ear Canal Ablation<\/a><\/span>) may be necessary to remove diseased tissue and prevent recurrence.<\/p>\n Following your vet\u2019s treatment plan is essential. Finish all prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve, and attend recheck appointments to prevent resistant infections. Proactive ear care can keep your dog comfortable and infection-free. Monitor your dog’s behavior<\/a><\/span> too!<\/p>\n “Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the veterinarian, and the frustrating truth is that most recurring cases have an underlying cause \u2014 usually allergies \u2014 that owners don’t realize needs to be addressed. Treating only the infection without identifying the root cause is like bailing water from a leaking boat. I always tell my clients: if your dog has had more than two ear infections in a year, it’s time to investigate what’s driving them.” – <\/em>Dr. Karen Becker, DVM<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, integrative wellness veterinarian and co-author of <\/span>The Forever Dog<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n No, most ear infections won\u2019t resolve without treatment. All types of otitis require a veterinarian\u2019s evaluation, as improper care…especially if the eardrum is ruptured…can worsen the condition. Certain cleaners and medications may be harmful to the middle ear.<\/p>\n Leaving an ear infection untreated can lead to permanent hearing damage and systemic illness. Severe infections may cause symptoms like loss of appetite or lethargy. Since ear infections are painful, prompt veterinary care is essential.<\/p>\n Though rare, a severe inner ear infection can potentially spread to the brain. Most infections affect only the external ear, but if left untreated, deeper infections can develop and lead to serious complications.<\/p>\nTreatment Options<\/h4>\n
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\n\n\n\nDog Ear Infections 101<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Can a Dog\u2019s Ear Infection Heal on Its Own?<\/h4>\n
What Happens if a Dog\u2019s Ear Infection Goes Untreated?<\/h4>\n
Can a Dog\u2019s Ear Infection Spread to the Brain?<\/h4>\n