Dogs are quite prone to ear infections. It is one of the most common problems when it comes to dogs. Vets say that this is the most common reason dog-owners go to clinics. This is because of dogs’ earflap. While it protects your dog’s sensitive ears, it also creates a moist, warm environment. This makes dogs’ ears ideal for bacteria or yeast growth. Because it was coming from the ear canal, your dog’s ears will accumulate a lot of bacteria, causing infection. Furthermore, if your dog’s ears are not regularly cleaned, wax tends to build up, raising the risks even more. If your dog has any signs that he is uncomfortable, you should consider ear problems. You can tell that it’s an ear infection when the dog repeatedly shakes his head, or tilts his head. They do this to relieve themselves of the pain caused by the infection.

Ear infections have three main causes. The most common are ear mites; these can be found in both cats and dogs. While they are not unusual, they can cause something even more severe. Ear mites that have been left untreated could promote bacterial growth. Secondary infection is always a hazard as this can cause a lot of damage to your pet’s ears. They are parasites which feed on the wax inside the ear canal and it’s best to treat ear mites at an early stage with miticides to prevent infection.

Primary infections can also spread out in and develop into potentially damaging diseases. These start out with bacteria, fungi or yeast that accumulates and feeds on the wax of the ear canal. Sometimes, dogs can have multiple types of infections in their ears. You will know that your dog has an infection when you smell something foul in your dog’s ear. In some cases, pus or other fluid will come out of the ears. It is best to take some preventative measures in order to stop infections; cleaning the ears regularly is a sure way to prevent it. However, if your dog already has an infection, your doctor will usually prescribe a topical, antifungal or antibacterial medicine.

Aside from infections and ear mites, dogs can also develop ear problems if they are allergic to certain elements in the environment. Insects such as fleas and gnats are very common; they can irritate the outer portion of the ear. This is the reason why many dogs have ear infections without showing any physical symptoms. Allergies to food and pollens can cause a physical effect on the dog’s ears. The skin will turn leathery and rough. It will also be very red and itchy.

Ear infections are quite easy to cure. It’s best that your dog is taken to a vet at the onset of any symptoms. Leaving the infection untreated could cause a lot of damage to your dog’s ears. Usually, medication is enough to cure an infection. However, if the case is severe, and the treatment has been delayed for quite some time, surgery might be the best option.