Most dog owners are all too familiar with the dreaded ear infection. In fact, many of us have experienced our dogs developing one firsthand. While they can be frustrating and difficult to treat, there are ways to help prevent them from occurring in the first place. In this blog post, we’ll look at what causes ear infections, the symptoms, and how you can prevent them!
What Contributes to Ear Infections?
Ear infections are one of the most common health issues in dogs, and they can be both painful and frustrating for pet owners. Some sources of ear infections in dogs include:
- Allergies. While there are several different factors that can contribute to ear infections, the most common cause is allergies. Allergies can cause inflammation in the ears, which can trap bacteria and lead to infection. Common allergens that affect dogs include chicken, soy, and corn.
- Excess moisture. Excess moisture inside the ear can be due to swimming or bathing, but it can also be caused by living in a humid climate. Moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive, leading to infections. If your dog likes to swim, dry their ears afterward to prevent excessive moisture.
- Various medical conditions. In some cases, ear infections may also be caused by underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disease.
- Physical traits. Some dog breeds are more likely to develop ear infections because of their ear shape. For example, Cocker Spaniels and Springer Spaniels have floppy ears, making it easier for bacteria and moisture to build up.
Symptoms of Ear Infections Can Vary
Ear infections are a common problem for dogs, and they can be quite painful. Fortunately, there are several ways to tell if your dog is suffering from an ear infection. Symptoms of ear infections include excessive scratching and pawing at the ears. If you notice your dog doing this, it’s important to take a closer look.
You may see that the ears are red or inflamed, or that there is a discharge. There might also be a foul smell coming from your dog’s ears. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for an evaluation. With prompt treatment, most ear infections can be resolved quickly and without any lasting aftereffects.
Regularly Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Prevents Infection
By cleaning your dog’s ears regularly with a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution, you can help prevent the buildup of wax, dirt, bacteria, and other residues that cause an infection in the first place. While some dogs may tolerate ear cleaning without complaint, others may find it to be a stressful experience. However, with a little patience and positive reinforcement, ear cleaning can be a breeze.
Cotton balls or pads can also be used, but avoid using cotton swabs, as these can damage the delicate tissue inside the ear. Next, apply some cleanser to a cotton ball or pad and gently wipe the inside of the ear. Be careful not to insert anything into the ear canal itself. Finally, give your dog a treat and plenty of praise to let them know they’ve been a good sport. With regular cleaning, you can help keep your dog’s ears healthy and free of infection.
Managing Your Dog’s Allergies Promotes Their Well-Being
Many people are surprised to learn that dogs can be allergic to a wide variety of things, including some that are commonly found in the home. One of the most common allergens is dust mites, which are tiny creatures that live in carpets and upholstered furniture. Dogs can also be allergic to pollen, mold, and certain food, including chicken.
While some allergies can be treated with medication, the best way to deal with an allergy is to avoid the allergen altogether. Switch your dog to a hypoallergenic food recommended by a veterinarian and see if that will help. Change their food slowly, as an abrupt change can cause gastrointestinal distress.
If you suspect a chemical allergen, try using organic or hypoallergenic cleaning solutions and other industrial chemicals around the house. And if your dog has an environmental allergy to pollen, you might want to avoid being outdoors during midday and early afternoons when the pollen count is at its highest.
Regular Grooming Prevents Bacteria in Your Dog’s Ears
Have you ever wondered how the hairs around a dog’s ear canal help to protect their hearing? The long, stiff hairs guide debris and other potential irritants away from the eardrum, while the short, fine hairs help to catch pollutants before they can enter the ear canal. However, these hairs can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes, which can lead to ear infections.
The warm, moist environment of the ear canal is ideal for bacterial growth, and the presence of hair can provide a protective barrier for bacteria against cleansing solutions. You can keep those hairs trimmed neatly to try to keep the buildup to a minimum.
Ear infections are nasty affairs but are often not severe. Keep up with your dog’s grooming schedule and maintenance and you should be able to stave off those annoying and often painful infections. Your dog will thank you for it!
