Ear infection in dogs: causes, symptoms and treatment

An ear infection in dogs, also known as otitis, is a common and often painful condition that requires special attention. If your dog is constantly shaking its head, scratching its ears or seems restless, this could indicate an ear infection. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms and proper treatment of ear infections in dogs.

Causes of ear infections in dogs

Ear infections can be triggered by various factors. The most common causes include:

• Allergies: Food allergies, environmental allergies or contact allergies can increase the risk of otitis.
• Parasites: Mites, fleas or other parasites can irritate the sensitive skin in the ear and cause inflammation.
• Infections: Bacteria, yeast or viruses can infect the ear, especially in a warm, moist environment.
  Foreign bodies: Awns, earwax or other foreign bodies in the ear canal can cause inflammation.
• Anatomical features: Dogs with floppy ears or narrow ear canals, such as cocker spaniels or golden retrievers, are at higher risk of ear infections because ventilation of the ear is restricted.
• Incorrect ear hygiene: Cleaning the ears too often or improperly can damage the sensitive tissue and promote inflammation.

Treatment of ear infections in dogs

The treatment of ear infections in dogs should always be carried out by a vet in order to determine the exact cause and initiate the appropriate therapy. After a thorough examination and diagnosis, the dog’s ear is professionally cleaned to remove dirt, excess earwax and any foreign bodies. The vet will then prescribe anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial medication to combat the infection and support the healing process. Consistent aftercare is important to prevent further inflammation.

Symptoms of ear infection in dogs

An ear infection often manifests itself through the following signs:

• Head shaking and scratching: Dogs with an ear infection often shake their heads and scratch their ears intensely.
• Redness and swelling: The ear may be red and swollen, especially the outer ear canal.
• Increased ear discharge: An unusual amount of ear discharge, often with an unpleasant odour, indicates inflammation.
• Pain and defensive behaviour: Many dogs are sensitive to touch on their ears and display defensive behaviour.
• Head tilt: In severe cases of inflammation affecting the middle or inner ear, the dog may tilt its head.
• Loss of hearing and balance problems: In severe cases, hearing loss and balance problems may occur.

Preventing ear infections in dogs

To prevent ear infections, you should take the following measures:

• Regular ear checks: Check your dog’s ears regularly for abnormalities such as redness, swelling or unpleasant odours.
• Gentle cleaning: Only clean your dog’s ears as directed by your vet and do not use aggressive cleaning agents or cotton buds.
• Dry ears: Make sure you dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing to prevent moisture build-up.
• Parasite control: Keep your dog free of parasites by regularly applying appropriate treatments.
  Proper feeding: A balanced diet can help prevent allergies and skin problems that can contribute to otitis.

Conclusion

An ear infection in dogs is a serious condition that should be treated quickly and thoroughly to avoid pain and further damage. However, with proper care and regular check-ups, you can significantly reduce the risk of ear infections and ensure your dog’s well-being.

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