Common Ear Problems for Dogs
Believe it or not, ear problems for dogs are more common than you think. In fact, dogs are more predisposed to ear problems than humans due to the shape of their ear canals. This article will outline some of dogs’ most common ear problems and some prevention tips.
Allergic reactions in dogs are common in early spring and late fall. Your dog may be allergic to something blooming during that time of year. Allergies can cause ear problems for our four-legged friends. Do not forget about food allergies too! Regular baths can help with seasonal allergies, and switching your dog’s diet can help with food allergies.
Bacteria infections cannot go unnoticed. These infections will cause discharge to come from the ears. Remember that many different types of bacteria could be causing the infection. Bacterial infections are usually treated with ear cleaner and topical medication. Yeast infections are another common cause of ear problems in dogs. Did you know that if your four-legged friend has an allergic reaction, it will produce more skin oils? Unfortunately, these oils build up in the ears, making them the perfect environment for years to grow. It would be best to speak with your vet about preventative maintenance if you notice that your dog is getting many yeast infections.
Let’s not forget about mites. Ear mites can cause many ear problems in dogs. These microscopic mites can crawl around your dog’s ear, causing significant discomfort and irritation. Your vet can check for ear mites by looking at a sample of ear debris under a microscope. Medication will be prescribed to eliminate ear mites. Foreign objects can also cause ear problems. We refer to things like plant debris, dirt, or even bugs.
Now that you understand how ear infections may occur, it is crucial to know the symptoms that come with them. Some of the most common signs seen in dogs with ear infections include the following:
- Scratching the ears
- Odor coming from the ears
- Redness in and around the ears
- Head shaking
- Bloody or yellow discharge coming from the ears
The good news is that there are many ways that you can prevent ear problems in your dog. Regular ear cleaning and bathing, especially after a lot of outdoor activity, is a great idea. Monitoring your dog’s diet and allergies will help you stay ahead of the game. Finally, regular veterinary checkups will help you detect any issues first-hand.
