Ear Infections in Dogs

One of the most common conditions experienced by dogs is ear infection. While mild ear infections in dogs are cured quite easily if treatment is started at the early stages of infection, extreme ear infections pose severe health complications in dogs if left untreated.

Types of Ear Infections in Dogs

According to veterinarians, there are three types of ear infections in dogs. They are:

1) Otitis Externa: The type of ear infection that affects the external ear canal of dogs is called otitis externa. This inflammatory condition can be acute or chronic. Acute otitis externa is uncomplicated and is cured fairly easily if treated immediately. On the contrary, chronic otitis externa may need prolonged treatment. Repeated inflammation episodes can badly affect the ear canal.

Some of the most common causes of otitis externa in dogs include food allergies, ear mites, foreign bodies, viral and fungal infections, autoimmune disorders and endocrine conditions.

2) Otitis Media: Infection that affects the middle ear is termed as otitis media. Otitis media in dogs mostly develops due to infection in the middle ear. Other causes otitis media in dogs include fungal infections and foreign bodies.

3) Otitis Interna: Out of the three types of ear infections in dogs, otitis interna is the most severe infection. Inflammation in the inner ear is called otitis interna. The most common causes of otitis interna in dogs include bacterial and viral infections. 

Signs of Ear Infections in Dogs

Some of the most common signs of ear infections in dogs include:

• Scratching of ears
• Strong odor
• Redness and swelling of ear
• Discharge from the ear
• Head shake

Symptoms of Otitis Media and Otitis Interna in Dogs Include:

• Tilting of head
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of balance

Why is it Important to Treat Ear Infection in Dogs at the Earliest?

If ear infection is left unattended, the possibilities of the infection worsening over time are extremely high. According to The Canadian Veterinary Journal, worsening ear infeciton in dogs may lead to hearing loss and facial paralysis. Severe ear infection in dogs can also cause uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus), loss of muscle control (ataxia) and altered sense of balance. 

If you notice the first signs of ear infection in dogs, it is highly recommended to fix an appointment with your veterinarian immediately to get your pet treated at the earliest. Early diagnosis and treatment help with faster cure.