Dog Ear Infection: General Information About Canine Ear Infections

The most common type of dog ear infection seen takes place in the external ear canal or the middle ear

. There are certain breeds of dog that are more prone to ear infections than others. Breeds that have long, droopy ears, such as Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels commonly get infections in their pendulous ears. Schnauzers, Poodles, and other dogs with hairy inner ear flaps are also prone to ear infections.

Common causes of an ear infection in the external portion of the ear are bacteria or yeast. Matted ear hair, wax build-up, a tumor, foreign body, impaired drainage, or debris can also cause external infections in the canine ear. Mites or a bodily infection can also cause external ear infections. When this outer ear malady goes untreated, it can then move towards the middle ear, causing an infection there.

It's often very easy to tell when your ear infection problems are about to begin. Look for signs of incessant scratching of the ears, constant head shaking, or inflamed and red ears. Also keep an eye out for a constant tilt to your dog's head. There is sometimes an offensive odor that accompanies these signs and is usually a dead giveaway that a serious infection is at hand.

If any of the signs mentioned above are present, it's best to take your dog to be examined by a veterinarian. Even if you are sure that it is an actual ear infection, having a professional opinion will provide you with the exact cause. Most of the time antibiotics and ointments are required to get rid of the infection as quickly as possible.

Not only will the medicine help eliminate the ear infection, but it will also provide you pet with the comfort he needs to feel better. Vets will usually have to swab the ear to run tests for a specific type of dog ear infection. They can also look into the ear canal with instruments designed for viewing these small spaces better.

An infection in the middle ear is harder to clear up. Sometimes extensive treatment is necessary and possibly even surgery. It could take up to six weeks before this type of dog ear infection comes to pass. Arranging a visit to the veterinarian as soon as signs or symptoms of an ear infection arise is important, both for your dog's personal comfort and to keep the infection from getting worse.

by: Marc Bachelet

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