Ear Infection in Dogs:

As veterinary professionals, we see ear infections as the most common problem for dogs and cats. In fact, they can be a chronic issue in many different dogs and cats. As common as it is, there are plenty of times when we see patients for routine visits, and they aren't showing any symptoms of ear infections, yet their ears are inflamed. 

For this reason, it is important that dog owners know what they should be looking for, so that their dog doesn't have to suffer from ear pain, any longer than necessary. 

Which dog breeds are prone to ear infections?

The simple truth is that some dog breeds are more likely to get ear infections than others. This is often due to the shape of their ear canals and other factors, including floppy and hairy ears. This includes many Cocker Spaniels, though any dogs that have poodles in them may be facing a life where you must be watchful of the condition of your dog's ears.

What causes ear infections in dogs? 

Ear infections are common in dogs due to the shape of their ear canal. They hold more fluid in their ears than we do.

Ear infections are caused by yeast or bacteria. It can also be a combination of both.

It can be caused by the build-up of wax, getting water in their ear, and allergies (both to food and other allergens).

What are the symptoms of ear infections? 

Though some dogs don't show symptoms, many do. Here are some things that you should be watching out for:

• Discharge. You may notice some dark discharge coming out of your dog's ears.
• Redness. Even if you don't see any discharge, you may notice that the inside of your dog's ears are red.
• Scabs or crusting in the ears. Many dogs, especially those who have long-term and chronic ear infections, may have scabbing and crusting in their ears.
• Itchy ears. Your dog may be scratching at his or her ears. He or she may also shake his or her head regularly.
• Pain. Your dog may react if you try to pet his or her head or neck area, which can indicate an ear infection.
• Odor. Many pet parents bring their dogs in because of the smell. Ear infections have a unique smell, which can really upset pet families.

What can be done to treat the ear infection? 

If you think your dog has an ear infection, you need to take him or her to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Your veterinarian will want to know about your dog's medical history, in case he or she gets ear infections regularly. You may want to mention to your veterinarian whether or not your dog recently got a bath or went swimming (both of which can cause infections). Diet is also important to know if your dog is allergic to a food item that he or she is eating.

The veterinary team will likely take a sample to figure out if your dog's ear infection is caused by yeast, bacteria, or a combination of both. After a thorough cleaning, you will have medication to put into the ears over the next few weeks. If the infection is really bad, you may be sent home with some oral antibiotics and pain medications. There are times when steroids are used to help bring comfort to your dog quickly.

What happens if you don't treat your dog's ear infection? 

Left untreated, your dog's infection can get worse, which can be quite painful. The infection can also spread to the middle and inner ear, making treatment even more difficult.

Though common, ear infections still need to be taken seriously. These can be quite uncomfortable for your dog, and if left untreated, it can lead to a more serious infection. For this reason, if you notice your dog is scratching at his or her ears, doing a lot of head shaking, or has an odor coming out of his or her ears, it is time to take him or her to the vet!

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Previously published on Medium and/or Newsbreak.