Dog Ear Problem Causes
Some dog breeds are more prone to ear problems than others. Dogs with hanging ears, such as Basset Hounds, or Spaniels, as well as dogs with hairy inner ears, such as Poodles and Schnauzers, are prone to ear problems. Any dog that spends a lot of time swimming or in wet environments can have dog ear problems ranging from wax buildup, inflammation, or infection.
The propensity for a dog’s ear to become infected is due, in part, to the anatomy of the ear. The ear canal begins horizontally and then takes an abrupt turn upward, thus trapping material that can lead to ear problems. All these factors combine to create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow or wax to accumulate.
Dog Ear Problem Causes
The other factor that could be causing ear problems is a foreign object in the ear. Carefully check your dog ears to make sure there is nothing obvious. If you see something, be careful that you don’t push the object further down the ear. It is best to remove with blunt edge tweezers. If you have any doubts about whether or not the object is a growth or a foreign object, take your dog to the vet.
Do not use Q-tips to clean your dog’s ears as this may just cause additional problems. Use cotton balls or gauze instead.
Common Signs of Ear Problems
Some of the most common signs of ear problems include:
- Head shaking.
- Ear scratching.
- Red, swollen ear canal.
- Brown, smelly wax in the outer ear.
The ears are not only used for hearing but also function as a means to eliminate toxins. Ear problems occur when the toxins become trapped in the moist ear canal. If you can reduce the toxins in your dog’s diet and restore his overall health, you can eliminate recurring ear problems. If you can fortify his immune system via a proper diet, you can also reduce ear problems caused by allergies.
If your dog is suffering from an ear problem and you catch it early, a solution of apple cider vinegar and distilled water (one tsp of ACV in a half cup water) dropped in the ear and massaged using the outer ear, can prevent the infection from escalating.
You can also add a couple of drops of grapefruit seed extract or tea tree oil to kill the bacteria.
A common ear drop formula can be found at health food stores is a mullein oil and garlic combination.
Here’s a great natural remedy that many of us have successfully used to solve our dog’s ear problems.
PetAlive Ear Dr. for Pet Ear Infections and Mites
“Soothes and conditions to prevent scratching and itching, plus promotes complete ear health”
Dr. Martin Goldstein, DVM recommends the following:
Halo Herbal Natural Ear Wash Solution for Dogs and Cats
A gentle, effective ear solution from a soothing blend of herbal extracts (in a witch hazel base) eliminates ear wax, odors, prevents infections and heals abrasions, promoting healthy new cell formation.
Seven Forests Forsythia 18 for Dogs and Cats
A Chinese herbal remedy to fight bacterial infections, clean toxins, and dispel wind.
Here’s another bestselling combination remedy:
Chronic Ear Infection Kit for Dogs
By giving proper treatment, you can alleviate your dog’s chronic ear infections. Here are a few basic products to help get you started.
