Otitis Externa in Dogs

What is otitis externa?

Otitis externa is a very common type of ear infection in dogs. The infection occurs when the lining of the outside part of the dog's ear becomes inflamed and thickened in one or both ears. This can be extremely uncomfortable or painful for dogs and without treatment can lead to surgery.

Why are ear infections so common in dogs?

Due to a dog's ear canal being long and narrow with an L-shaped right-angled bend that can often collect debris, ear infections can occur often. Those with longer ears tend to be at a higher risk as they prevent moisture from escaping creating a wet and warm environment, which is a breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. 

Causes of otitis externa in dogs

Various factors can cause ear infections in dogs, such as:

• Allergies - Allergic reactions to food or the environment can cause inflammation or itching in the ear. 
• The shape of the dog's ear - Dogs with larger, hanging ears can be more prone to otitis externa as they tend to keep more moisture in making them more susceptible to ear infections.
• The environment - Swimming and foreign bodies from walks in wooded areas or grass, as well as humid weather can cause issues within the ear.
• Tumours - Moisture or foreign bodies can be shut in by tumours in the ear, which can lead to yeast and bacteria growing.
• Other medical issues - Autoimmune diseases, a build-up of dead skin, reactions to drugs or hormonal disorders can create environments where yeast or bacteria can grow.
• Parasites - Parasites like ear mites can cause the ear to become inflamed and itchy which can cause a secondary infection. 
• Overenthusiastic cleaning - Cleaning a dog's ears too roughly or incorrectly can lead to irritation or debris being pushed into a dog's ears. 

Dog ear infection symptoms

Symptoms of otitis externa include:

• Head shaking, this happens a lot when their ears are rubbed.
• The underside of their ear is inflamed or red and may feel warm.
• They are repeatedly scratching or rubbing their ears.
• Their ears smell unpleasant. 
• The dog avoids being touched on the head or ear.
• The dog is in pain.
• Waxy brown, yellow or black discharge is coming from their ears. 
• They are tired or irritable.

In severe cases of otitis externa the outer ear can thicken and the eardrum can rupture. This can cause problems in the middle or inner ear, which can put the dog off their food, cause them to have difficulty walking straight or standing up and they may tilt their head. Deafness can also occur. 

How to diagnose otitis externa

Vets diagnose ear infections in dogs by looking at their full medical history. They’ll then look at their ear canal to see if there are any blockages, foreign bodies or tumours that could be causing the infection. Ear swabs may also be taken to test for parasites, bacteria and yeast. 

Vets may also conduct tests to see if the dog is suffering from allergies and any underlying health conditions. 

Dog ear infection treatment 

Treatments for ear infections in dogs can vary depending on what the Vet finds during examinations and investigations. Treatments could include:

• Clipping away long fur around the ear or any fine hairs around the ear canal to promote air flow and encourage damaged tissue to heal.
• Cleaning the dog's ear to ensure all foreign bodies or blockages are removed. This can be done through ear flushing and cleaning. This may require the dog to be sedated or put under anaesthesia.
• If a dog is experiencing a parasite, bacteria or yeast infection, medication may be provided to reduce swelling and pain.
• Changes in diet or lifestyle as well as medication may be advised for dogs suffering with allergies.
• Surgery may be required for dogs with tumours.

How to prevent otitis externa 

A great way to prevent ear infections in dogs is to regularly clean their ears, however this won’t prevent chronic otitis. Chronic otitis in dogs is where otitis externa is recurrent for three months or more. Creating a regular ear cleaning routine, ideally once a week, should be completed quickly. 

If a dog has very hairy ears, they should be trimmed to stop moisture getting stuck and causing further issues. For dogs that go swimming regularly, it’s essential that their ears are properly dried after swimming.

How to clean your dog's ears

Cleaning a dog's ears properly is important as it can prevent infections getting worse or stop them from happening all together. Speaking to your vet about how to properly clean your dog’s ears is the best way to know how to clean their ears properly. 

General advice includes:

• Massaging the dogs ears for roughly 20 seconds to soften and release any debris in the ear. Using dog friendly ear cleaner can make this easier.
• Use a cotton ball or wet wipes to wipe the inside of the dog's ears. You should start at the entrance to the start of the ear canal and make your way up to the outside of the ear. This should move the debris away from the ear canal, preventing infections from occurring. 

Home remedies for otitis externa in dogs

Diluted apple cider vinegar solution can be used to gently clean a dog's ears. It acts as an antifungal and antibacterial agent and should be dabbed sparingly into the dog's ears. However, if you suspect your dog has an ear infection you should consult your vet for advice. 

FAQs 

Can an ear infection kill a dog?

It’s very rare for an ear infection to be life threatening, but they can cause complications if they’re left untreated. For example your dog may require surgery to treat the problem.

Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?

There are several reasons why your dog may keep getting ear infections, such as:

• Allergies.
• Parasites.
• Foreign bodies or blockages.
• Tumours.
• Excessive or rough cleaning.
• Bacteria or yeast.

If your dog is suffering from ear infections, it’s important to contact your vet as soon as possible to prevent symptoms worsening or other conditions occurring.

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