WRITTEN BY DR. PATRICK MAHANEY
Chronic ear infections are a common and frustrating issue for many dog parents. Not only do ear infections cause significant discomfort for your four-legged companion, but they can also lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. Understanding the underlying causes of why your dog keeps getting ear infections is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
As a veterinarian, I frequently encounter cases of chronic ear infections in dogs and am here to provide insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help your pet stay healthy and comfortable.
Chronic ear infections in dogs refer to persistent or recurring infections in the ear canal. These can affect the outer ear (otitis externa), the middle ear (otitis media), or the inner ear (otitis interna). Unlike acute ear infections, which may resolve with short-term treatment, chronic infections often require ongoing medical management and care.
The ear canal's warm, moist environment makes it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, which can lead to infections. Dogs with chronic ear infections typically experience inflammation and irritation, which can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to more severe health issues if not properly managed.
Understanding what causes ear infections in dogs is key to preventing and managing these recurring issues. Here are some common factors that contribute to chronic ear infections in dogs:
Allergies are a leading cause of ear infections in dogs. In fact, almost 45% of ear infections are linked to allergies, with up to 80% of dogs with food allergies being affected by ear infections*. Food allergies, environmental allergies (including seasonal and non-seasonal allergens, like pollen, dust mites, and others), and flea allergies can all cause inflammation in the ear canal, leading to infections.
Ailments that cause hormonal imbalances, including Hypothyroidism (under-functioning thyroid glands), Custhing's disease (over-functioning adrenal glands), and others can affect your dog's skin and ear health, making them more prone to infections.
Certain breeds, particularly those with floppy ears (closed ear canal) like Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Golden and Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible due to their ear structure. Floppy ears cause a lack of airflow in the ear canal, trapping moisture to create an ideal micro-environment for the growth of bacteria and yeast.
Dogs that swim frequently or have their ears exposed to water (grooming, playing around water, etc.) often are at a higher risk for developing ear infections. Moisture in the ear canal creates a breeding ground that fosters the growth of infectious organisms.
Plant awns (foxtails, etc.), grass seeds, soil, and other environmental materials can get lodged in the ear canal, leading to irritation, infection, penetrating injury, and other issues.
These tiny parasites can cause intense itching and inflammation, leading to secondary infections with normal skin bacteria and yeast.
Certain immune-mediated diseases and their medical treatment can cause immunosuppression, making infections of the skin and ear more likely.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ear infections is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
If your dog keeps getting ear infections and exhibits any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and diagnostic testing to achieve a diagnosis.
You might be wondering, "Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?" Chronic ear infections often result from a combination of factors that create a perfect storm for recurring problems. Here are some reasons why chronic canine ear infections may persist:
Addressing recurring ear infections in dogs requires a comprehensive approach that includes both immediate and long-term strategies. Here are some effective treatment options:
By incorporating these preventive measures into your dog's routine care, you can significantly reduce the risk of hot spots and promote overall skin health.
In addition to professional veterinary care, there are several at-home treatment options for dog ear infections that can help manage and prevent future issues:
In a nutshell, regular veterinary check-ups and a proactive approach to ear care are essential for preventing and managing these persistent infections. By understanding the causes and symptoms of chronic ear infections in dogs and implementing effective treatments, you can help your furry friend enjoy a happier, healthier life without the discomfort of recurring ear issues.
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Dr. Patrick Mahaney works as a concierge-style veterinarian and has a number of celebrity clients through his house-call practice, California Pet Acupuncture and Wellness. He loves building personal, long-term relationships with his clients to best suit their pets’ needs within the comfortable confines of their homes.
To spread his message of holistic veterinary medicine on a large-scale basis, Dr. Mahaney attained a Certified Veterinary Journalist certificate and enjoys contributing to pet-related media projects. He is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist.
Holistic, House-Call Veterinarian
Los Angeles, CA
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