Dogs, especially those with floppy ears like Bloodhounds, Dachshunds, and Poodles, frequently suffer from ear infections. Due to the unique structure of their ear, they have a higher chance of developing ear infections as compared to pets.
Keep reading to find out the most prevalent indications of ear infections in dogs.
Noticeable Signs of Ear Infection in Dogs
The ears of a healthy dog should be dry and clean. However, small quantities of bacteria and yeast typically reside in the outer ear canal. Yet if there is a debris buildup or the ear canal’s normal, healthy state is disrupted, the bacteria and yeast that usually live there might grow to an absurd level and cause an infection.
Loss of Balance
It’s no secret that canines rely heavily on their hearing sense. If your pet suffers from an ear infection and it worsens, they may lose their balance and start walking on their sides. Because of this, they may need help going up and down stairs and stumble frequently.
If your pet experiences this, it’s a sign that their ear infection is getting severe. Keep in mind that the vet may suggest surgery as a permanent solution if the infection is severe enough that medications aren’t helpful. It is best to consult a reliable vet for more information about this condition.
Head Shaking or Tilting
The most noticeable symptom of an ear infection in a dog is shaking or tilting the head. If your dog is tilting or shaking its head repeatedly, it likely has an ear infection and is trying to alleviate the pressure that has built up in the ear.
As soon as you see your dog trembling and tilting its head, you should immediately take them to a veterinary laboratory. This will allow them to diagnose the problem in your pet’s ear and provide an effective veterinary prescription.
Aggression or Fear
When a dog is in pain, especially if the area of its body that aches is threatened, it might become quite aggressive. Your dog may suffer pain in its ears or be at risk for infection if it reacts violently when you touch its ears, such as by growling, snapping, or biting.
Your pet could also be in discomfort if it cowers in fear or you notice your dog hiding more often than usual. Still, it’s essential to remember that other health issues are also linked to aggression and fear. Hence, seeking the help of a vet specializing in pet cardiology is the best solution.
Swollen or Oozing
Dogs’ ears may swell if they have a severe ear infection, especially in the later stages of the condition. Infection in the ear canal is a likely cause of your dog’s swollen ear, particularly if other symptoms are present.
Pus or fluid oozing from the ear is also a common symptom. Yet, both symptoms may indicate an injury to the canine’s ear canal. You should examine it if they may have injured their ear. By doing so, you can detect an infection in its early stages.
The Bottom Line
Canine ear infections are a common concern; if left untreated, they can result in further problems. Medication is usually all needed to cure them, but it’s essential to identify the root reason to avoid recurring. It’s true that ear infections aren’t always avoidable, but responsible pet owners may lessen their dog’s risk of developing an infection by maintaining good ear hygiene.