The ear is divided into four parts:
- Pinna - the part outside the head
- External ear canal
- Middle ear - found on the inside of the eardrum
- Inner ear - consists of tubes and nerve structures that transmit sound to the brain. The inner ear also helps control your dog’s balance.
Ear inflammations are common in dogs and have many causes. Dogs, like bloodhounds, with droopy ears and/or a great deal of hair, like the English sheepdog, in the ear canal seem to have the most problems with ear inflammations. These characteristics plus the warm and enclosed nature of the ear canal provide an excellent environment for infectious agents that cause inflammation.
Causes
Bacteria, fungi and ear mites are common causes of ear inflammation in dogs. Allergies, seborrhea, an underactive thyroid gland, trauma, foreign objects (such as plant seeds) and tumors also cause ear inflammation.
Most cases of middle ear and inner ear inflammation are caused by bacteria that pass through a ruptured eardrum. One cause of a ruptured eardrum is overzealous cleaning of the ear canal. Throat infections may also cause middle ear inflammations.
Diagnosis by your Veterinarian
Examination of your dog’s ear canal and eardrum by your veterinarian with an instrument called an otoscope helps determine the cause. If the ear is very painful, your dog may need to be sedated for a thorough exam. Other tests include: microscopic examination of earwax; ear cultures; thyroid hormone studies; X-rays; surgical biopsy.
Tasty Tips
Most ear inflammations can be treated successfully once appropriate diagnostic tests are completed by your veterinarian.
Treatment and Home Care
Ear issues must be treated persistently and specifically, depending on the diagnosis. In some cases, treatment may need to be continued for six weeks or longer.
In most cases your veterinarian will need to clean your dog's ear and remove the hair from the ear canal before treatment will be effective. The use of medications to dry your dog’s ears can be helpful. More aggressive treatment, such as surgery, may be recommended for severe cases.
Home care usually includes administering medications directly into your dog’s ear canal according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Failure to properly administer ear preparations could lead to chronic inflammation, so be sure to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Nutrition
If your dog has an ear issue, your veterinarian may suggest a change in your dog’s food. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a therapeutic hypoallergenic dog food to help limit exposure to potential allergens. Such dog foods may include Hill’s® Prescription Diet® brand dog foods.
Unless recommended otherwise by your veterinarian, gradually introduce any new dog food over a seven-day period. Learn how to transition your dog gradually to a new dog food.
Related products
Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Adult Small & Mini Dog Mousse with Beef
Hill's Science Diet Small & Mini Adult Mousse with Beef is a complete pet food for small breed Adult dogs 1–6 years old. It is a tailored wet food for the unique needs of your Small & Mini dog during the prime of their life.
Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Perfect Weight Adult Small & Mini Dog Mousse with Turkey
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Perfect Weight Dog Food with Turkey is a complete pet food for small breed adult dogs, including those that are less active, neutered or otherwise prone to weight gain.
Related articles
Exercise Tips to Keep Your Dog Active
A little exercise can make a big difference. Not only will it enhance your pet’s health, but it will beef up your relationship as well.
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behaviour
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
Dogs With Sensitive Skin: Looking Beneath the Fur
Dogs with sensitive skin have special dietary needs. Even healthy dogs can develop skin problems. Learn more about sensitive skin issues in your dog.
Your Overweight Dog: When Bigger Isn't Better
Extra pounds can cause problems for your dog's overall health. Learn the signs that your dog might be overweight, and what you can do to manage its weight.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.