Dog Ear Infections
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Mar 20, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Mar 20, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
On This Page
Ear infections are very common in dogs, particularly during the summer months.
Dogs with floppy ears are more predisposed to ear infections because the dog’s ear canals face down which makes it easier for water to get into the inner ear and cause an ear infection.
Puppies are also very prone to ear infections which are usually caused by ear mites.
Swimming, frequent bathing and even cleaning the ears too much can also contribute to ear infections.
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Common Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections
Some of the most common symptoms of ear infections are the following:
- Ear discomfort
- Scratching and rubbing ears
- Odor or discoloration in the ear canal
- Ear Infection Treatment
- Crust or scabbing in or outside the ear
- Head shaking
- Walking in circles
- Loss of balance
- Wiping ear on the floor
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Common Causes Of Ear Infections In Dogs
The most common causes of ear infections in dogs are the following:
- Wax build-up inside the ear
- Allergic reaction
- Ear Mites
- Foreign bodies
- Dirt and debris in the inner ear
- Dog’s hair blocking the ear
- Yeast or Bacteria
- Other Infection
- Hypothyroidism
If an ear infection goes untreated, further damage can occur.
Read more: Does pet insurance cover ear infections?
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
Quick Diagnosis Of An Ear Infection In Dogs Is Important
If you think your dog has an ear infection, make sure to take your dog to the vet immediately.
If the infection spreads to the inner or middle ear, there can be serious complications from loss of hearing to facial nerve paralysis.
Ear infections are treatable, but they need to be addressed right away.
Your veterinarian will want a detailed history of your pup and will perform a complete physical exam of your dog.
The goal is to find the underlying cause to see if it is a more serious infection or just a more common ear infection.
Usually, your vet will swab the ear to obtain a sample of the debris or discharge.
The sample will then be examined under a microscope to determine if there is bacteria or yeast present.
If bacteria or yeast is present, then your dog has an ear infection.
Yeast-related ear infections tend to have debris that is black or dark brown.
Dogs with bacterial ear infections will have more of a yellowish brown debris in their ears.
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Dog Ear Infection Treatment
The recommended treatment will depend on the cause, nature, and severity of the ear infection.
Treatment usually includes antibiotic ointments, drops, sprays, or creams for the ear.
If the ear infection is more severe, your veterinarian will probably prescribe an oral antibiotic.
If your dog suffers from chronic ear infections, surgery may be required.
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How to Prevent Your Dog From Getting Ear Infections
The best prevention for ear infections in dogs is to keep your dog’s ears clean and free of debris.
Some further tips include the following:
Check your dog’s ears regularly for odor, swelling, discharge and other symptoms of infection.
After swimming and baths, make sure your dog’s ears are dried thoroughly.
For dogs that grow hair around the ear canals, tweeze it away or have your groomer do it for you.
A dog’s ears need to be clean but don’t overdo the cleaning, because this can lead to infection.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Your Dog’s Ear Infections?
Pet insurance will cover ear infections and the medication and testing that are needed to cure the infection.
However, if your dog had an ear infection before signing up for a pet insurance plan or has chronic ear infections, then the infection won’t be covered as it will now be considered pre-existing.
The cost of treating an ear infection can range from $200 to $4,500 if surgery is required.
Pet insurance plans like Healthy Paws can save you up to 90% of the costs of all the necessary treatment.
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If you have a breed of dog that is pre-disposed to ear infection, like Bassett Hounds or Cocker Spaniels, pet insurance can assure you that you can always care for your dog’s ear infection for only a portion of the total cost.
Just like any other dog health condition, if you notice anything abnormal in your dog’s behavior or anything inside the ear that shouldn’t be there, take your dog to the vet immediately.
If you are looking for a pet insurance company that covers ear infections, our top 10 pet insurance companies is a great place to start!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are common symptoms of dog ear infections?
Common symptoms include odor, swelling, discharge, and other signs of infection. Dogs may also exhibit head shaking or scratching at their ears.
What causes ear infections in dogs?
Ear infections in dogs can be caused by factors such as water exposure, frequent bathing, ear mites, and excessive ear cleaning. Dogs with floppy ears are more predisposed.
How important is quick diagnosis for dog ear infections?
Quick diagnosis is crucial as untreated infections can lead to serious complications, including loss of hearing and facial nerve paralysis.
How are ear infections in dogs diagnosed?
Veterinarians typically perform a physical exam and may swab the ear to obtain a sample for microscopic examination. Bacterial or yeast presence determines the diagnosis.
What is the treatment for dog ear infections?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity, usually involving antibiotic ointments, drops, or oral antibiotics. In severe cases or chronic infections, surgery may be necessary.
How can dog owners prevent ear infections?
Regularly check ears for signs of infection, ensure thorough drying after swimming or bathing, and, if applicable, remove hair around the ear canals.
Does pet insurance cover dog ear infections?
Yes, pet insurance typically covers the costs of diagnosing and treating ear infections. However, pre-existing conditions may not be covered.
What is the cost of treating a dog’s ear infection?
The cost can range from $200 to $4,500, depending on the severity and whether surgery is required. Pet insurance plans like Healthy Paws can provide substantial savings.
Are specific dog breeds more prone to ear infections?
Yes, breeds with floppy ears, such as Bassett Hounds or Cocker Spaniels, may be more predisposed to ear infections.
When should I seek veterinary care for my dog’s ear issues?
If you notice anything abnormal, such as behavior changes or unusual discharge, it’s advisable to consult a vet promptly.
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.