Dog ear infections: see a vet

Most dog ear infections are best taken straight to your vet.  Any time the ear is red, painful, very itchy, or has discharge, incorrect treatment could cause pain and permanent damage to the ear.  Failing to treat dog ear infections promptly is also a common cause of complications, such as middle and inner ear infections, hot spots and aural haematomas (read more about dog ear infection complications).

Check your dog's ears regularly to ensure you don't miss early ear infections.  Once you find an advanced ear infection, take your dog to the vet.

The key is regularly checking your dog's ears so you catch the first signs of trouble.  Be on the lookout for any signs of ear infections in your dog.

Dog ear vet

Read more about dog ear infections

When should I see the vet?   
Typically, letting your veterinarian professionally examine and clean your pet’s ears is easier and safer. Your vet will look into your pet’s ears with an otoscope to find out what is causing the problem. If mites are present, they will be visible but, in many cases, bacteria or yeasts without ear mites cause the infection. There may also be foreign bodies present, such as grass seeds, which need immediate attention by a veterinarian. 

In many cases your pet will need antibiotics or other prescription medications to solve the problem. Ear medications like this are not available over the counter. 

It may be necessary for your pet to be anaesthetised for the vet to examine its ears correctly. This will also allow proper cleaning and inspection. A sample of the discharge is often taken and this will be examined under the microscope to find out what bugs are present. A swab may also be sent off to a laboratory for a ‘culture and sensitivity’ test. This is done to detect what bugs are present and what medications are best suited to kill them. As you will know, some bacteria are resistant to certain antibiotics.

Be sure to complete the full course of any ointment that your vet prescribes.