Ear infections are common in dogs, especially those with long, floppy ears. One of the most common reasons owners take their dogs to the veterinarian is for ear infections. A dog ear infection can lead to hearing in severe circumstances. However, the good news is that these infections are superficial to cure and, in many cases, avoidable.
Related Topics You Might Like
Ear Infections Relief For Dog
Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes
"(Paid Links)" As an Amazon Associate, We earn from qualifying purchases.
What causes ear infection in the dog
Ear infections in dogs arise when the skin surface gets unhealthy. Therefore the best method to prevent ear infections is to figure out what's causing the problem in the first place. That way, you'll be able to avoid or remedy whatever is causing the issue.
Bacteria and Yeast
It's common for dogs to have a collection of microbes living on the surface of their skin, just like people. The majority of the time, these microorganisms are entirely harmless. However, suppose the usual skin barrier is broken in some manner and becomes irritated and inflamed. In that case, it allows germs to thrive unchecked, according to Grant. An excess of yeast, bacteria, or a combination of both causes ear infections.
Mites in the ears
Ear mites are tiny insects that can infest the ears of your dog. They can be passed from animal to animal or picked up by your dog simply by lying down outside. They don't bite, but their presence irritates the skin on your dog's ears, causing them to itch uncontrollably. Ear mites in dogs can cause ear infections because they irritate the skin.
Moist ears
Bacteria and yeast thrive in moist and dark environments, according to Grant. As a result, dogs with floppy ears are more likely to get ear infections. In addition, the air is easily able to enter upright ears, keeping them dry. Ears that flap down, on the other hand, collect moisture, which increases germ growth. In addition, licking and puking can cause ear infections in puppies in a litter.
Allergies
Allergies frequently cause recurrent ear infections. If your dog has multiple ear infections, allergy testing should be considered. Ear infections affect 80 percent of dogs with food allergies and 50 percent of dogs with environmental allergies.
Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections
Because ear infections can be unpleasant or itchy, there are a few telltale indicators that anything is wrong with your dog's ears.
How to treat dog ear infection
Relief on the Spot
You can utilize these relaxing solutions to bring relief. They'll take care of the irritation and pain. However, if you want to keep your dog's ear infections under control in the long run, you'll need to take further precautions.
Green Tea
Take 8 ounces of water to a boil, then add two green tea bags. Allow the tea to brew for a few minutes before cooling to lukewarm. Some of the fluid should be syringed or sponged into the ear canal.
Tincture of Calendula
Calendula has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It also contains antibacterial qualities that aid in infection prevention. To utilize calendula, purchase a tincture of herbal calendula. For example, to 1 cup of lukewarm filtered water, add 5 to 10 drops of calendula tincture. Then use a dropper to apply it.
Extract of Grapefruit Seeds
Grapefruit seed extract is a potent antioxidant found in nature. Anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties are also present. Mix 10 drops of GSE with 12 ounces of pure aloe vera juice to use topically. You can use it to clean the ears. Add 3 to 5 drops of GSE to your dog's food to utilize it internally.