Dog’s Ears & Preventing Ear Infections

Dog’s ears are impressive.

For example, they can swivel to locate the source of a sound in 6/100 of a second. However, the design of canine ear canals leaves something to be desired. Their shape (a downward plunge followed by a horizontal tract) can leave debris stuck too easily, which is why dogs—floppy-eared ones in particular—are prone to ear infections.

Telltale signs your dog has an ear infection include:

• ear scratching
• colored discharge
• odor
• redness
• swelling
• crusted or scabby skin
• impaired hearing
• Also pay attention if your dog wipes his ear on the floor or furniture, or if he shakes his head a lot.

How to Prevent Ear Infections

Gently dry your dog’s ears after swimming or baths, and occasionally clean his ears with a cotton ball dampened with a solution recommended by your vet. If you suspect a problem, it’s important not to self-diagnose. Bacteria or yeast causes most ear infections, and both require veterinary treatment.