Dog ears exist in all shapes and sizes; however, they differ from human ears. They have a long, vertically and horizontally divided canal for their ear. The result is a shape that is more likely to hold dirt, which can cause dog infections of the ear.
The puppies and dogs of the world can suffer ear infections for various reasons. In most cases, an issue hinders the ear’s normal protective barrier from functioning correctly. Once the ear is irritated or wet, it is simple for bacteria or yeast to spread and create an infection.
Dog Ear infections require medical attention from a veterinarian. After thoroughly examining your pet, the vet will decide if any further treatments at home are necessary. To determine the course for your pet, your vet will likely need to look at the earwax or scans of your dog’s ear.
Causes of Dog Ear Infections
Several causes can cause ear infections in dogs. If your dog has a regular pattern of problems with their ears, it may be an issue at the root that causes the condition to return. Here are some possible causes for the recurring ear infections in your dog.
Bacterial and Yeast Infections
The natural yeast that is present that grows in the ear canal of your dog is usually due to allergies, leading to yeast infections. Bacterial development in the ear is generally caused by wax accumulation, or water is the cause of bacterial infections.
Dogs with bacterial or yeast infections in their ears frequently have symptoms that include frequent scratching and itching of the ears. These symptoms include the appearance of a brown or red discharge or a crustiness that covers the ear. Consult your veterinarian about pet ear and skin conditions.
Food or Environmental Allergies
Ear infections frequently occur in dogs suffering from allergies to food and the environment. About half of pets with food sensitivities and skin allergies could develop an ear infection at some point throughout their lives. Dogs are the most often sensitive to proteins such as chicken, lamb, beef, dairy, and eggs.
Mass in the Ear Canal
A tumor or tumor might cause recurrent ear infections in dogs within the ear canal. Adenomas of the ceruminous gland, polyps, and adenocarcinomas are the most common tumors in the ear canal. They’re usually caused by swelling, unpleasant smell, ear itching or a waxy discharge from the other ear, and head shaking.
Water in the Ear Canal
Ear canals are prone to moisture, which could encourage bacteria to grow and lead to an infection. To stop any water from getting caught in your dog’s ear after exposure to smoke, make sure to dry their ears properly. Look up “Treatment of Internal Conditions” to get more information.
Ear Mites and Parasites
Your dog’s ears will be itchy from ear mites and parasites like ticks. They are known to shake their heads or scratch their ears in response to this. Along with producing wax and causing discomfort, which can lead to an infection, ear mites could cause their ears to be painful, swollen, or itchy.
Wax Buildup
The wax can be found in our ears and our dog’s ears. However, an accumulation of wax can obstruct, impair the flow of air, and even trigger the ear to become infected. The two leading causes of increased wax accumulation are ear mites and allergies.
Autoimmune Disease
Although they’re not very common, diseases, where the immune system targets healthy cells, may cause inflammation and infection of your dog’s ear canals. These include vasculitis pemphigus or lupus. Visit a veterinary clinic like Yolinda Animal Hospital for more details.