My dog is scratching their ears- now what?

A dog scratching their ear/s is the first and most common sign of an ear problem. Of course an occasional ear scratch is normal and does not mean that your dog has an underlying ear issue. However, if you observe your dog scratching their ears constantly, it is likely that they are experiencing pain and discomfort, and they need to be examined by a veterinarian. 

These symptoms are the most common clinical signs we see associated with  ear infections, but can be a sign of many underlying conditions.This is why it is important to schedule an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian. 

During the full physical exam your veterinarian will assess your dog’s ears looking at the ear flaps, and also perform an otoscopic examination ( using an otoscope, they can see the ear canal and eardrum). 

In case of ear infections microscopic examination of the dog’s ear wax is very helpful. It gives us an answer if there is  an ear infection and what causes the infection- yeast or bacterias (cocci or rods), or ear mites. This way vets can prescribe the best medication to treat your dog’s ear infections. Usually ear medications are the ear drops or ear ointments.

There are so many options right now- -you can go home with ear medication to apply it every day in your dog ears or you can be offered single dose treatment administered by  veterinary personnel and lasts for 30 days.

Ear infection is the most common reason why your dog scratches their ears but there are some other causes of itchy ears in dogs. Here are some of them: allergies, skin infections, ear mites, ear polyps, foreign body in ear canals.

This is why if your dog has itchy or inflamed ears, see your trusted veterinarian. Do not wait, your dog can be in pain and  it can worsen quickly. 

Regular ear cleaning at home may prevent ear infection. Veterinary personnel can demonstrate the proper way to clean your dog ears and recommend the best ear cleaner for your dog. 
 

Written by: Ewelina-  Practice Manager