A dog easily accumulates dirt inside its ears, however, ear discharge isn’t really a common condition. You should consult your vet if you suspect a pus-like discharge or excessive ear wax flowing out of your dog’s ears. This could be a sign ear infection.
You should consider cleaning their ears often. It can prove to be a difficult affair to get your dog’s ear cleaned. A dog doesn’t want its ears cleaned, so you have to be patient with them.
If you don’t clean their ears properly, it can do some serious damage in the future.
Symptoms of Ear Infection in Dogs
- A brown or reddish pus-like discharge
- Odor in the ear
- Redness or Swelling
- Crusts or scabs on the inside of the ear
What causes Ear Infection in Dogs?
- Bacteria
- Yeast
- Allergies
- Hormone imbalances
Types of Ear Infection in Dogs
Ear Mites
Though miniature in size, the ear mites can cause a serious problem for dogs. The onset of ear mites is common in young dogs.
The crusty, blackish-brown ear discharge, which looks like dried shoe polish is the major sign of ear mite that often results in scratching and head shaking.
Inner Infection (otitis interna) and middle ear infection (otitis media)
Otitis interna is an inner ear inflammation which is more commonly known as labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis. An untreated external ear infection (otitis externa) can lead to a painful middle or inner ear infection.
Your dog will start showing signs with the onset of the condition. They will have the reluctance to open their mouth and problem with balance. Some dogs may walk in circles or become nauseous.
Outer Infection (otitis externa)
Otitis externa causes inflammation with redness or swelling of the external ear canal, a tube between the outer ear and eardrum. It is often referred to as "swimmer's ear" because repeated exposure to water can make the ear canal more vulnerable to inflammation. Otitis externa can be a result of allergies, mites, polyps, excessive exposure to water, or overproduction of ear wax.
Acute otitis externa is a common condition involving inflammation of the ear canal caused primarily by the bacterial infection.
During the onset, you can witness a waxy, yellow or reddish-brown discharge. A bad or fruity odor from the ears; excessive pain; hot or inflamed ears; scratching; or head shaking are some of the additional symptoms.
5 Best Natural Treatments for Ear Infection in Dogs
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Mullein
- Oregano Oil
- Calendula
- Coconut Oil
