Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear inflammation (otitis) in canines is not a single disease but is a symptom of many conditions. Foreign objects in the ear canal, allergies, parasites, endocrine diseases, and disorders of the auto-immune system can create yeast, bacterial, or fungal infections. Ear problems should be treated promptly to prevent permanent hearing loss and potential neurological problems.

A dog with inflamed outer ears (otitis externa) may scratch and paw at his ears and shake his head. Chronic, untreated outer ear inflammation may lead to rupture of the eardrum and an infection of the middle ear (otitis media). The skin lining the ear canals thickens and creates numerous folds, which keep discharges in the ear from escaping and encourages the growth of secondary infective organisms. The dog may have a moist brown discharge from the affected ear(s), a bloody discharge, or a foul-smelling creamy white or yellow discharge. He will be head shy and have pain when his ears are touched. Facial paralysis may develop on the affected side, with drooping eyelids and difficulty swallowing, and if the infection progresses to the inner ear (otitis interna) he may exhibit a loss of balance, carry his head tilted downward, and walk around in circles.

Airborne allergies are the most common cause of chronic ear problems in dogs. Dogs reacting to airborne allergens may have itchy ears, faces and feet and are predisposed to secondary skin infections and ear infections. Food allergies are a common cause of ear problems in dogs under one year old. Half of all dogs with allergic reactions have problems with both ears and allergic dogs will tend to have recurrent ear problems until the allergies are identified and controlled.

Ear mites and other parasites may cause chronic ear infections. It is unusual for adult dogs to get ear mites unless they are in close contact with cats (who are natural hosts and carriers) or a new puppy with mites is brought into the home. Only a few ear mites can cause hypersensitivity. Mite infestation is the easiest ear problem to diagnose and treat.