Ear Infections In Dogs

Ear Infections In Dogs

Does your dog shake his head from side to side?

He may have an ear infection.

Other symptoms can include

A nasty odour from the ear

Pawing and scratching at the ears.

A discharge or the ear can look crusty or dirty.

The dog may experience hearing loss.

The ear may be red or swollen.

The dog might rub his head around furniture or carpets.

He may walk in circles and suffer from loss of balance.

Pain when the jaw is opened.

Reluctance to chew.

Ear Infections in Dogs

Dogs with excessive hair around the ears are more susceptible. Ask your groomer to clean and remove the fur inside the ears.

A vet can easily diagnose ear infections in dogs by using an instrument to examine the ear canal. He may prescribe antibiotics and/or a demonstrate a cleaning technique.

Ear infections are usually caused by bacteria or yeast infections.

The dog has a vertical ear canal, so it is easy for debris and moisture to enter and get trapped inside. Always make sure to dry the ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming.

Ear mites (especially in puppies) can cause an ear infection.

Grass seeds can get stuck in the ear canal and cause infection.

They can signify Thyroid imbalances and allergies, which need further investigation.

Which Breeds Get The Most Ear Infections?

The breeds most susceptible are dogs with long, non erect, pendulous ears.

These include

Bassett Hounds

Dachshunds

Spaniels

Shih Tzu

Great Dane

Weimaraner

Also

Dogs who love to swim like Labradors or Golden Retrievers.

Dogs with hairy inner ears including poodles and schnauzers.

Any dog who likes to run and roll in grass.

Natural Remedies

Organic apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which cleans debris from the ear. Dilute with olive oil and gently wash the ear flaps using a cotton ball. Don’t use apple cider vinegar if the ear is sore or inflamed, it will hurt the dog.

Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Melt over a low heat, then allow to cool. Place the liquid in a dropper and insert 2 to 3 drops into the dog’s ear. Then use the rest of the coconut oil to clean the ears.

Massage the oil into the base of the ear to allow the liquid to go further.

Garlic is great for removing yeast, just add a small amount to the dog’s food. I use 1/4 of a clove for my small dogs.

A few drops of organic green tea can reduce inflammation, it is known for its antioxidants.

Tea tree oil is antibacterial and antifungal, it relieves itchiness and swelling.

Only wipe once then dispose of the cotton ball.

Never use cotton buds in the dog’s ear. Just like humans they can push bacteria and dirt further into the ear.

.Always check with your vet if you think your dog has an ear infection.

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