If your pup has been shaking their head more than usual or scratching at their ears frequently, there’s a chance an ear infection could be the culprit. If you’ve noticed a funky smell or some gunky discharge in there, too, it’s definitely time to take action. There is good news, though: some mild ear infections can be managed at home with the right tools.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
Ear infections in dogs are pretty common. They’re usually caused by bacteria, yeast, or even ear mites. Moisture trapped in the ear (think after a swim or bath) creates a warm environment that fosters growth, leading to an infection. Allergies, excess ear hair, or something as simple as dirt can also cause infections. Dogs with floppy ears or very hairy ears, like Cocker Spaniels or Labradors, are more prone because airflow is limited, making it easier for moisture to get trapped.
Steps for Treating a Mild Infection
If your dog’s symptoms are mild, like a bit of itching and head shaking, you might be able to manage it from home. Just be sure to keep a close eye on things, and don’t hesitate to call your vet if anything worsens.
1. Clean the Ears Gently
Start with a gentle ear cleaning. You’ll want to use a vet-approved ear cleaner (avoid anything harsh like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol). First, fill your dog’s ear canal with the solution. Gently massage the base of the ear to loosen the debris. Your dog will probably want to shake their head. After massaging the base of the ear, you can let them shake out the extra fluid. With a cotton ball or wipe, wipe away the extra fluid on the ear flap. Do not use Q-tip or anything that goes down into the ear canal.
2. Keep Ears Dry
Moisture is one of the leading causes of ear infections, so keeping the ears dry is key. Use a clean towel or cotton pad to gently dry the area after bathing, swimming, or even going out in the rain or snow.
3. Try Natural Soothers (with Vet Approval)
Some gentle, natural ingredients can help ease irritation and discourage yeast or bacterial growth.
A few options:
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Diluted apple cider vinegar (1:1 vinegar: water) can help with fungal infections.
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Coconut oil can help moisturize dry skin and has some anti-inflammatory properties.
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Cooled chamomile tea can be soothing and anti-inflammatory.
Make sure to clear these options with your vet before using them. Depending on the type of ear infection, these could cause irritation.
When It’s Time to Call the Vet
Home remedies are great for mild cases, but some signs mean it’s time to call your vet. If your dog’s ears are very red, swollen, bleeding, or painful to the touch, make an appointment with your vet. Strong odors, discharge (especially brown), or loss of hearing or balance are also signs to contact your veterinarian. This means the infection has progressed and likely needs antibiotics or an antifungal medication.
Ways to Prevent Infections
Prevention is always best, although it is not entirely possible when it comes to ear infections. Making ear care a regular part of your care routine can help reduce ear infections. Clean your dog’s ears regularly using a gentle, vet-approved solution, and always dry them thoroughly after baths or swimming to avoid trapped moisture.
If your dog has a lot of hair in or around their ears, trimming the excess can improve airflow and reduce the risk of infection. It’s also important to keep an eye out for allergy triggers, whether they’re related to food or environmental factors, as allergies can often lead to recurring issues.
