Ear Health for Dogs

Though they often go unnoticed, ears are a very important part of a dog. They provide dogs with the sense of hearing, which is vital for survival in the wild as well as in domestic settings. Make routine ear checks a regular part of your dog grooming and ensure your pet’s health and hearing well into the future.

If your dog is a swimmer, or finds himself frequently in the bathtub, he may be at risk for water-related ear complications. Moisture can become trapped within an ear, providing an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and infection. Dogs with flap ears are particularly prone to these infections. The flapped ears do not allow for a constant flow of air, meaning moisture has little opportunity to dry within the ear.

Ear infections can also be due to other health issues. Whenever a dog’s immune system is at all compromised, whether it is due to stress, malnutrition or illness, they are more prone to any type of infection. You can often notice an ear infection by its unpleasant odor and unusual discharge. See your veterinarian as soon as you discover an infection.

Ear mites are another common problem with dogs. These tiny, white pests are highly contagious so if you find them in your dog’s ears, be sure to keep him away from other dogs until they are gone. It can be a long treatment process to rid a dog’s ears of mites, sometimes taking up to a month. Your veterinarian will be best able to prescribe a treatment plan for your dog. The time and effort is worth it for your dog’s wellbeing.

Sometimes foreign objects can get lodged into your dog’s ear, causing discomfort and damage. Be sure to check frequently for anything unusual in your dog’s ear. A normal and healthy ear will be light pink and moderately waxy. Let your veterinarian know if anything looks out of the ordinary.

You can also routinely clean your dog’s ears. There are products made especially for canine ears. Talk to your vet to find which one is best for your dog. Never use a Q-tip or alcohol in your dog’s ears. To clean your dog’s ears on your own, stick to a gentle cloth and warm water.