How to Spot an Ear Infection in Your Dog
Signs, Causes, and When to See a Vet
Ear infections are one of the most common health issues in dogs, and they can cause a lot of discomfort if not addressed quickly. Knowing how to recognize the signs early can prevent complications and keep your pup happy and healthy.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
Common signs of ear infections in dogs
Causes and risk factors
How to check your dog’s ears safely
When to contact your veterinarian
Steps to help prevent ear infections
How Scenthound supports your dog’s ear health
Introduction to Ear Infections
Ear infections, medically known as otitis media, are a frequent concern for both adults and children, and they can also affect our canine companions. These infections develop when the middle ear—an air-filled space located just behind the eardrum—becomes infected by bacteria or viruses. Understanding the ear anatomy is key: the ear is divided into three main parts—the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. When an infection strikes, it can cause a range of symptoms, including ear pain, fever, and even hearing loss. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial to prevent further complications. Whether the infection is in the outer, middle, or inner ear, prompt attention can help your dog recover quickly and comfortably.
Common Signs of an Ear Infection
Dogs can’t tell you when their ears hurt, but their behavior and physical symptoms, or symptoms of an ear problem, often speak volumes.
Look for:
Frequent head shaking or tilting
Scratching or pawing at the ear
Redness or swelling inside the ear
Unpleasant odor from the ear canal
Dark discharge, which may be brown, yellow, bloody, or consist of ear fluid or other fluids
Signs of pain when the ear is touched
These are the most common ear infection symptoms in dogs.
Recognizing the symptoms of ear infections early can help prevent complications.
Types of Ear Infections
There are several types of ear infections that can affect your dog, each involving different parts of the ear. Outer ear infections, or otitis externa, occur when the ear canal becomes infected, often due to bacteria or fungi. These are the most common and can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the outer ear.
Middle ear infections, known as otitis media, develop when the middle ear is affected, usually following a viral or bacterial infection that has traveled inward.
Inner ear infections, or labyrinthitis, are less common but can be more serious, as they impact the inner ear and may lead to balance issues or hearing loss. Each type of ear infection presents with its own set of symptoms and may require different treatments, such as medicated eardrops for outer ear infections or antibiotics for middle ear infections. Understanding the types of ear infections can help you and your veterinarian choose the best course of action for your dog’s recovery.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Dogs can develop ear infections due to a variety of causes. Ear infections are usually caused by bacteria, yeast, or a combination of both.
Factors that increase risk include:
Allergies (food or environmental)
Excess moisture in the ear canal
Ear mites or parasites
Foreign objects like grass seeds
Excess hair in the ear canal
Some breeds or dogs with certain conditions are at higher risk of ear infections
A viral infection can also cause ear infections in dogs.
How to Check Your Dog’s Ears Safely
Gently lift your dog’s ear flap and look inside. Healthy ears should be pale pink with little to no odor. If you notice redness, swelling, discharge, or smell something foul, it’s time to consult your veterinarian.
For more information on how to keep your dogs ears clean and healthy, click here.
Diagnosis and Examination
Diagnosing an ear infection in your dog starts with a thorough examination by a veterinarian or an ENT specialist. Using an otoscope, the vet will look inside your dog’s ear to check for signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, or fluid buildup. In some cases, additional tests like tympanometry may be used to assess the health of the middle ear, or a hearing test may be performed if hearing loss is suspected. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, advanced imaging like a CT scan or MRI might be recommended to rule out other conditions. It’s important to seek professional help if your dog’s symptoms persist or worsen, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious problems.
Complications and Consequences
If ear infections are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications for your dog. Persistent infections may cause permanent hearing loss, a ruptured eardrum, or chronic otitis media, which can be difficult to manage over time. In rare cases, the infection can spread beyond the ear, affecting nearby bones or even the brain, leading to life-threatening conditions. Repeated or severe infections increase the risk of developing chronic ear problems, which may require ongoing care. That’s why it’s essential to monitor symptoms closely and consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes, ensuring your dog’s ears stay healthy and free from long-term damage.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
Don’t wait if your dog shows:
Sudden onset of symptoms
Severe swelling or redness
Signs of intense pain
Loss of balance or unusual eye movement
High temperature
These could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate care.
Some symptoms may point to a serious condition needing prompt veterinary attention, such as acute otitis media (a middle ear infection) or an inner ear infection, which can be particularly severe. While most ear infections resolve with treatment, many ear infections or recurrent cases may need further investigation to prevent complications.
Preventing Ear Infections
While not all ear infections can be avoided, you can help reduce risk by:
Keeping ears clean and dry
Managing allergies through diet and vet-recommended treatments
Regularly checking for debris or signs of irritation
Long-Term Care and Management
For dogs that experience recurring ear infections, long-term care and prevention are key. Simple steps like keeping the ears clean and dry, avoiding secondhand smoke, and not inserting objects like cotton wool buds into the ear canal can help prevent ear infections. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend ear tubes to help drain fluid from the middle ear and reduce the risk of future infections. Regular check-ups with your vet or an ENT specialist are important to monitor your dog’s ear health and adjust treatment as needed. By staying proactive and following your vet’s advice, you can help prevent ear infections and protect your dog from long-term complications.
How Scenthound Helps Keep Your Dog’s Ears Healthy
At Scenthound, we focus on the essentials of dog health—Skin, Coat, Ears, Nails, and Teeth (SCENT). Our regular ear care services help identify potential problems early, remove buildup, and keep your dog comfortable year-round. By staying proactive, we help dog parents ensure their pets enjoy healthier, happier lives. We also offer a membership program that helps you remember to stay on top of your dogs health regularly.
Conclusion:
Catching an ear infection early can save your dog from unnecessary pain and prevent more serious issues down the road. By knowing what signs to look for, maintaining regular ear care, and partnering with Scenthound, you can give your dog the attentive care they deserve—keeping tails wagging and ears healthy.