3 Types Of Ear Infections In Dogs
3 Types of Ear Infections
Dogs have three types of ear infections:
Otitis externa: inflammation of the ear canal
Otitis media: inflammation of the middle ear
Otitis interna: inflammation of the inner ear
Otitis externa is the most common dog ear infection, as this part of the ear is most exposed to the outside world. Ear infections can be acute (quick onset) or chronic (recurrent).
What Causes An Ear Infection?
Bacteria
Yeast
Wax buildup
Moisture in the ear
Excess hair
Allergies – both environmental and food
Ear mites and fleas
What’s the Difference Between a Dog Yeast Ear Infection vs. Bacterial Infection?
A yeast infection and a bacterial infection in dogs can look the same to the naked eye. Your veterinarian can take a sample of the ear discharge to determine the difference. When examined under the microscope, your vet can distinguish between a bacterial and yeast ear infection by the microbes they see.
Yeast ear infections tend to have a distinct odor and have a darker brown discharge. Bacterial ear infections are usually a lighter brown or yellow color. Most dogs have a yeast infection when they have an otitis externa. Infections of the middle and inner ear are usually bacterial.
Know Your Dog’s Risk
While any dog can develop an ear infection, some breeds are more susceptible than others. Floppy ear dogs (such as Poodles, Labs, Hounds, Beagles, Spaniels, etc…) top the list. Having that enclosed ear canal creates a perfect moist environment for bacterial and yeast growth. Plus, floppy ears help to trap dirt, debris, and wax buildup.
Tips To Prevent An Ear Infection
1. Keep Your Dog’s Ears Dry
Moisture is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. While you certainly don’t need to stop your water-loving pooch from taking a dip in the pool on a hot summer day, it’s important to dry her ears afterward. The same thing goes for bath time! Use either a cotton wipe or a piece of gauze to gently dry the ear flap and around the opening of your dog’s ear canal after exposure to water.
2. Pluck Excess Hair
Have a breed where hair grows inside the ear (like poodles)? Then make sure to pluck it! If not, that excess hair in the outer ear canal will act as a trap for debris and moisture. And you know what that can lead to … infection!
This fine hair is usually easy to pull out with your fingers. But, you can also use a little ear powder and a hemostat. Important Note: Don’t stick the hemostat down into the ear canal because you can cause more harm than good. Just grab the hairs that you can easily see. Think of it like tweezing your eyebrows – grab onto a hair with your hemostat and pluck.
3. Gently Clean Your Dogs Ears Regularly
Use these steps as your guide:
Use a soft cotton wipe, cotton ball, or cloth.
Dampen the wipe with an ear-cleaning solution (do not spray directly in the ear).
Using your index finger and the wipe, gently wipe away ear wax build-ups.
Get into every little crevice, cleaning out all the wax.
Do not push your finger too deep into the ear, as you may cause damage to the eardrum. Just focus on the surface level of wax.
Finish with a dry cotton wipe to dab away any leftover moisture gently.
When and where to get help
Infections of any kind can be distressing for both dogs and their owners. If you spot warning signs or have any concerns about your pet’s health or behavior, it’s always beneficial to get advice as early as possible. The sooner you tackle problems, the better the outcome and the sooner your pup will be symptom-free.
There are various routes you can take. The first option is to contact your local veterinary practice and make an appointment. If you have concerns outside of working hours, or you can’t get a consultation as quickly as you hoped, you could also use resources from experienced veterinarians like Cynthia Maro DVM. Her website is a treasure trove of information, tips, and insights designed to benefit pet owners and professionals. You’ll also find links to helpful guides and advice via search engines. If you are using online resources and websites, look for trustworthy sources and always ensure you click on secure sites.
Intuition is often a powerful tool when you own dogs. You know your pets, and often, you’ll be able to tell if something is up. It’s best to get symptoms checked out, even if they’re minor.
Want to read more about pet health, check out my previous blogs here:
Pig Ears and Salmonella Poisoning
Vestibular Syndrome In Dogs And Cats
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Amazing how important ear health is for our pups. Love the post!!!
Thank you! Yes, maintaining the health of your pet and having a great vet you trust is important.