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Dog ear infections are a common and frustrating issue for many pet parents. If your dog is constantly scratching their ears, shaking their head, or if you notice a strong odor coming from their ears, they may have an infection. Ear infections can be painful and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious health problems.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and best treatment options can help you take quick action to relieve your dog’s discomfort. In this guide, we’ll cover how to treat a dog ear infection and how to prevent future infections—including how a fresh, balanced diet like Ollie Fresh Dog Food can support ear health.
A dog ear infection (also called otitis) is an inflammation of the ear canal caused by bacteria, yeast, or parasites. Infections can occur in three different parts of the ear:
Most dogs will experience an outer ear infection at some point in their lives. However, if left untreated, the infection can spread deeper into the ear, leading to more serious complications such as hearing loss or balance issues.
If your dog has an ear infection, you may notice:
Catching an ear infection early is key to preventing serious pain and complications. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action right away.
A dog ear infection (also known as otitis) happens when bacteria, yeast, or parasites multiply inside the ear canal. Several factors can make your dog more likely to develop an ear infection.
Dogs naturally have bacteria and yeast in their ears, but when these microorganisms multiply too quickly, they cause an infection. This overgrowth can happen due to moisture buildup, allergies, or a weakened immune system.
Allergies are one of the most common reasons for chronic ear infections in dogs. Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities often experience itchy ears, leading to inflammation and infection. Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mold can also trigger infections.
How Ollie Helps: Feeding Ollie Fresh Dog Food eliminates many common allergens found in low-quality kibble, like fillers, artificial additives, and certain grains. A fresh, balanced diet can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of recurring ear infections.
Dogs who swim frequently or get their ears wet during baths are more prone to infections. Moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive, especially in dogs with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds).
Ear mites are tiny parasites that live inside the ear canal, causing intense itching and irritation. They are more common in puppies and can lead to secondary bacterial infections if left untreated.
Some dogs naturally produce more earwax than others, which can trap dirt and debris, leading to infections. Small foreign objects (like grass seeds) can also get stuck inside the ear canal and cause irritation.
If your dog has an ear infection, quick treatment is key to preventing pain and complications. Treatment will depend on the severity of the infection, but in most cases, a combination of veterinary care, medication, and proper ear cleaning is needed.
A veterinarian should examine your dog’s ears to determine the cause of the infection. Vets use an otoscope to look inside the ear and may take a swab to check for bacteria, yeast, or parasites. Identifying the exact cause helps ensure the right treatment.
Your vet may recommend:
When to See a Vet Immediately:
Veterinary-prescribed medications are the most effective dog ear infection treatment and work quickly to relieve symptoms. Your vet may prescribe:
These treatments typically clear up an infection within 7 to 14 days, but it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions exactly and complete the full course of medication—even if symptoms improve early.
Keeping your dog’s ears clean is essential for both treating and preventing infections. However, cleaning must be done gently and correctly to avoid making the infection worse.
What NOT to Do:
Dogs with food sensitivities are more prone to ear infections, and a fresh, balanced diet can help reduce inflammation. Our Fresh Dog Food is free from artificial fillers and common allergens, making it a great choice for dogs prone to ear infections.
Additionally, Ollie Skin & Coat Chews contain omega-3 fatty acids and biotin, which support skin and ear health—helping to prevent infections before they start.
If your dog has a mild ear infection or ear irritation, you may be able to manage it at home with gentle cleaning and natural remedies. However, home treatments should never replace veterinary care for severe infections, chronic issues, or infections that aren’t improving.
A warm saline rinse can help flush out mild debris and soothe irritation. To make a simple solution:
Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful for mild yeast infections. However, do not use this remedy if your dog’s ear is red, swollen, or has open sores, as it can sting.
How to use it:
Both coconut oil and aloe vera have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve itching and minor irritation. To use:
Once your dog has had an ear infection, you’ll want to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Regular ear care, proper grooming, and a healthy diet can make a big difference in reducing the risk of infections.
Cleaning your dog’s ears once a week or as needed helps remove dirt, wax, and bacteria before they cause an infection.
Moisture buildup is one of the biggest triggers for ear infections, especially in dogs with floppy ears.
How to Prevent Moisture Buildup:
Food allergies are a major cause of chronic ear infections in dogs. Many commercial dog foods contain fillers, artificial additives, and common allergens (like wheat, corn, or soy) that can trigger inflammation.
How Ollie Helps:
Adding skin-boosting supplements to your dog’s routine can help prevent recurring ear infections.
Ollie Skin & Coat Chews contain:
Even with proper care, some dogs are prone to ear infections due to genetics or allergies. Regular vet visits help catch early signs of infection before they become serious.
Ask Your Vet About:
While some mild ear infections can be treated at home, certain symptoms indicate that your dog needs veterinary care as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could lead to severe pain, deeper infections, or even hearing loss.
The fastest way to treat a dog ear infection is to visit a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Your vet may prescribe antibiotic ear drops, antifungal medication, or anti-inflammatory treatments. If treated early, most infections improve within 7 to 14 days.
For mild cases, you can try home remedies like saline solution or diluted apple cider vinegar to clean the ears. However, if the infection is severe, persistent, or causing pain, a vet visit is necessary. Never use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can irritate the ear.
Dirty ears may have a little wax or mild odor, but an ear infection typically causes redness, swelling, itching, excessive scratching, and a strong odor. If you notice discharge or your dog is in pain, it’s likely an infection.
Untreated dog ear infections can spread to the middle or inner ear, leading to hearing loss, balance issues, and chronic pain. In severe cases, an untreated infection can cause ruptured eardrums or permanent ear damage.
Yes! Dogs with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Golden Retrievers) are more likely to develop ear infections because their ear canals trap moisture and bacteria. Breeds with allergy-prone skin (like Bulldogs and French Bulldogs) are also at higher risk.
Yes! Food allergies are a common cause of recurring ear infections in dogs. Many commercial dog foods contain fillers, artificial additives, and grains that trigger inflammation. Feeding a fresh, balanced diet like Fresh Dog Food can help reduce allergy-related ear infections.
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