Dog Ear Infection — Signs, Causes & Treatment | PetSensAI
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Dog Ear Infection — Signs, Causes & Treatment

Ear infections (otitis) are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet. Dogs' L-shaped ear canals trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast. Breeds with floppy ears, hairy ear canals, or allergies are particularly prone to ear problems.

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Common Causes

Yeast Infection

Schedule Vet Visit

Fungal overgrowth causing brown or black waxy discharge with a musty, bread-like odor. Common in warm, moist conditions and often associated with allergies.

Bacterial Infection

Schedule Vet Visit

Bacterial overgrowth causing yellow or green discharge with a foul smell. May follow a yeast infection or occur after water enters the ear.

Allergies

Schedule Vet Visit

Food or environmental allergies cause ear inflammation that leads to secondary infections. If ear infections keep recurring, allergies are often the underlying cause.

Ear Mites

Schedule Vet Visit

Tiny parasites causing intense itching and dark, coffee-ground-like debris. More common in puppies and cats. Highly contagious between pets.

Foreign Object

See Vet Immediately

Grass seeds (foxtails), debris, or bugs can get into the ear canal causing sudden head shaking, scratching, and tilting. A common summer problem.

Water in Ears

Monitor at Home

Moisture from swimming or bathing that isn't properly dried can lead to infection. Common cause of "swimmer's ear" in dogs.

Ear Anatomy

Monitor at Home

Floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds), narrow ear canals (Shar Peis), or hairy ear canals (Poodles) trap moisture and debris.

Hormone Disorders

Schedule Vet Visit

Hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease can predispose dogs to skin and ear infections due to immune and skin changes.

How to Photograph for Best AI Analysis

Getting a clear photo helps our AI provide more accurate insights. Follow these tips:

  • Photograph the inside of the ear flap and as far into the ear canal as visible
  • Capture the color and consistency of any discharge
  • Show both ears for comparison, even if only one seems affected
  • Photograph any redness, swelling, or thickening of the ear
  • Use good lighting to show the true color of discharge (brown, black, yellow)
  • If there's an odor, note it when describing the situation

When to See a Veterinarian

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

  • •Your dog is in obvious pain, won't let you touch the ear
  • •Head tilting to one side or loss of balance
  • •Yellow or green discharge with strong foul odor
  • •Swelling of the ear flap or around the ear
  • •Hearing loss or not responding to sounds
  • •Ear infection keeps coming back (suggests underlying cause)
  • •Home cleaning isn't improving symptoms after a couple of days
  • •Signs of a foreign object (sudden onset, intense head shaking)

How PetSensAI Can Help

PetSensAI's ear health scanner can analyze photos of your dog's ears to identify signs of infection, mites, or other problems. Our AI can help distinguish between yeast and bacterial infections based on discharge appearance and track ear health over time.

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Related Symptoms

Sources

About the Author

PetSensAI Editorial Team

Pet Health Content

Our editorial team creates pet health guides informed by reputable veterinary sources and reviewed for clarity and safety. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical advice.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for any health concerns about your pet.

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Last updated: 2025-01-09