Dog ears exist in all different sizes and forms, but they have a different structure than human ears. Dogs have a long, horizontal, and vertically divided ear canal. This results in a form that more readily retains dirt, which can cause dog ear infections.

Dogs and puppies can develop ear infections for a variety of reasons. Frequently, an underlying issue prevents a dog’s ear’s typical protective barrier from functioning correctly. Once the ear is irritated or wet, it is simple for bacteria or yeast to overgrow and lead to an infection.

Dog ear infections require medical attention from a veterinarian. After examining your pet, the vet will decide whether any more home treatments are necessary. To determine the course of action, your veterinarian will probably need to analyze the earwax or run scans of your dog’s ears.

Causes of Dog Ear Infections

Dog ear infections can have a variety of different reasons. If your dog consistently has ear infections, there may be an underlying problem that keeps the condition returning. Here are a few possible causes of your dog’s recurrent ear infections.

Bacterial and Yeast Infections

Natural yeast in your dog’s ear overgrows, most frequently due to allergies, leading to yeast infections. Bacterial development in the ear, typically brought on by moisture or wax accumulation, is the source of bacterial infections.

Dogs with bacterial or yeast infections in their ears frequently exhibit symptoms such as excessive scratching and itching at the ear. These symptoms include red or brown discharge or crustiness around the ear.

Food or Environmental Allergies

Infections in the ear are common in dogs with allergies to food and the environment. Nearly half of the dogs with food sensitivities and skin allergies may get ear infections at some point in their life. Dogs are most frequently allergic to proteins, such as chicken, lamb, dairy products, cattle, and eggs. Look up “Dog vaccinations in Placentia” for more information about vaccines for your pet.

Mass in the Ear Canal

A tumor or tumor may bring on recurrent ear infections in dogs in the ear canal. Polyps, ceruminous gland adenomas, and adenocarcinomas are typical ear canal tumors. These are typically accompanied by swelling, a foul smell, ear itching or waxy discharge in one ear, and head shaking.

Water in the Ear Canal

Moisture in the ear canal can encourage the growth of germs, which can result in an infection. To help prevent any water from getting stuck in your dog’s ears after exposure to moisture, ensure to dry out their ears properly.

Ear Mites and Parasites

Your dog’s ears will itch from ear mites and parasites like ticks. They frequently shake their heads or excessively scratch their ears in response to this. In addition to producing wax and causing discomfort that can result in an infection, ear mites can also make their ears red, swollen, and irritated. Consult a veterinarian to learn more.

Wax Buildup

Wax is common in both our ears and our dog’s ears. However, an excessive accumulation of wax can result in a blockage, impair ventilation, and even cause an ear canal infection. The two leading causes of increased wax accumulation are allergies and ear mites.

Autoimmune Disease

Although they are uncommon, diseases, where the immune system targets healthy cells, can cause inflammation and infection in your dog’s ear canals. These conditions include vasculitis, lupus, or pemphigus. It is recommended to learn more about veterinary dermatology.