Anatomy of the Dog’s Ear
A dog’s ear consists of three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear.
The outer ear includes the ear flap and the external ear canal. In dogs, the ear canal is long and bends, which makes it harder to clean than a human’s ear canal. It ends at the eardrum, which separates the outer ear from the middle ear. The middle ear contains three small bones — the hammer, anvil, and stirrup — that amplify sound and pass it to the inner ear. The inner ear includes the cochlea (for hearing) and the vestibular system (for balance).
Most infections affect the external ear canal (otitis externa). Infections that reach the middle or inner ear can cause more severe symptoms, including neurological signs. In this article, we focus on otitis externa.
Ear Infections in Dogs
Ear infections are common in dogs and can have several underlying causes. The most common primary causes include:
- Ear mites
- Foreign objects like grass seeds
- Allergies
Secondary causes can also play a role, such as excess earwax, the dog’s ear structure, or frequent swimming. These factors create a moist environment where bacteria, yeast, and fungi thrive.
Ear Mites in Dogs
Ear mites are parasites that live in and around the ear, feeding on wax and skin debris. They cause intense itching and discomfort. While they’re most common in puppies, dogs of any age can be affected. Ear mites are highly contagious, so all pets in the household should be examined. A vet can see the mites using an otoscope. If necessary, the ear canal may need to be cleaned before treatment. Treatment usually involves a spot-on product and an ear cleaner such as Clean Ear, which helps repel mites.
Grass Seeds as a Cause of Ear Infections
During the summer, tall grass can produce seeds (known as grass awns) that may enter a dog’s ear canal. This is very painful and can damage the eardrum. The foreign object should be removed by a vet as soon as possible.
Allergy-Related Ear Infections
The ear canal is lined with skin, so dogs with allergic skin conditions often suffer from ear infections as well. In some cases, an ear infection is the only visible symptom. Dogs can be allergic to environmental triggers (atopy), food ingredients, or both. Once the allergy is managed, the ear issues often resolve too.
Signs of an Ear Infection in Dogs
Dogs with ear infections may scratch or shake their head. The ears may feel warm, smell unpleasant, or appear red and swollen. You might see wax or discharge in the ear canal. The type of discharge can vary depending on the infection and the microorganisms involved.
Do you suspect your dog has an ear infection? Contact your vet. Not all infections are the same, and each requires an individual approach. The vet may take a closer look and analyse a sample under the microscope. In some cases, flushing the ear is needed before medication can be applied.
Can You Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs?
Ear infections aren’t always preventable. It’s not necessary to clean your dog’s ears regularly unless they are prone to infections. If your dog produces a lot of wax, has floppy ears, or swims frequently, using ear drops or an ear cleaner may help reduce the risk.
Note: If your dog doesn’t have ear problems, you should not start cleaning preventively.
A dog’s hearing system is incredibly important, and ear discomfort can significantly impact their wellbeing. If you’re ever in doubt, consult your vet.
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