It is recommended to practice good handwashing when interacting with a pet with an ear infection and to limit other pets licking the infected pets ears. Simply use a cotton ball or cotton round (NOT Q-tips). The best vitamins and supplements for senior dogs, 8 experts share their best dog training tips, Here's how to give special dogs a special home, The best pet insurance companies reviewed, 10 ways to encourage your cat to drink water, The cost of a cat, from adoption to emergencies, How to clean your dogs ears, a step-by-step guide. The food works as a preventative measure to protect your dog from a painful ear infection. However, be cautious before applying ACV on the ear if it appears too red or swollen. Video call a licensed vet to get expert advice. But shortly after bringing your new pet home, multiple pets in the house will be scratching and shaking. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
How do allergies cause ear infections in dogs? After 4 years of private small animal practice in northern NJ, she returned to the University of Pennsylvania and completed her residency in Dermatology and Allergy, obtaining board certification from the American College of Veterinary Dermatology, then continued as a Lecturer in dermatology at Penn. Food allergies are caused by an overenthusiastic immune system reaction to specific protein. Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections Some dogs show no symptoms of ear infection aside from a buildup of wax and discharge in the ear canal. Moisture can get trapped inside the ear canal, which leads to infection and pain. If you fail to keep a check on your dogs ear health or provide the right food, your dog may remain vulnerable to allergies and infections. Dog food is a very common culprit to recurring ear infections when the underlying trigger is a food allergy. If the eardrum is ruptured, certain cleaners and medications can be toxic to the middle ear. Its more vertical, which is why it can hold fluid, which is another reason why canines are prone to ear infections. Active Shooter & Mass Attack Safety Resources, As many as 20 percent of dogs have some form of ear disease, Dogs are more prone to ear infections than humans because of the shape of their ear canals, Prevention is key learn how to clean your dogs ears safely, If your dog is showing any of the common signs of ear infections, its important to visit your veterinarian as soon as possible, Moisture, which can create a prime growing environment for bacteria and yeast, Allergies, which lead to ear disease in about 50 percent of dogs with allergic skin disease and 80 percent of dogs with food sensitivities, Endocrine disorders, such as thyroid disease, Duration of any symptoms, such as pain, swelling, discharge, and odor, If your dog has any allergies or other underlying medical conditions, If youve trimmed or plucked the hair in your dogs ears, Recent activities, such as baths, grooming, or swimming, If your dog has a history of ear infections, when they occurred, and how they were treated, Visual assessment to look for signs such as redness, swelling, and discharge, Examination with an otoscope, which allows evaluation of the ear canal and eardrum, Gentle palpation of the ear to assess level of pain, Microscopic examination of samples taken by swabbing the ear, Biopsies or X-rays in severe or chronic cases. In many aspects, food controls how the body functions, and when things are out of whack, many symptoms can appear. You can choose to dilute the oil to avoid pain or irritation when doing it for the first time. Diarrhea. Dog food plays a significant role in your mutt's general health. They can have an array of underlying causes such as allergies, moisture in the ear, wax build-up, or parasites. Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQ By Ashley Bates Last updated: May 26 2023 Vet approved Reviewed & Fact-Checked By Dr. Paola Cuevas Veterinarian, MVZ The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Allow the infected area to dry up and gently apply the ACV with a cotton ball. A grain-free blend contains more protein and fewer carbs, which aids digestion and benefits your dogs health in many other ways including reducing infections and allergies, which plays a crucial role in preventing ear infections in dogs. With the most common food allergens being beef, dairy products, chicken, lamb, fish, chicken eggs, corn, wheat, and soy, there are many dog foods that are limited ingredient, grain fee, holistic, and hypoallergenic, that do not contain most or any of these ingredients. Also, play your role as a responsible dog owner and make Dog food options that are highly processed or contain a lot of grain-based ingredients, additives, preservatives, and fillers can cause allergic reactions and lead to ear infections in sensitive dogs. Ear infections in dogs can be found in all parts of the ear, but are most commonly found in the tubular part of the outer ear (known as the external ear canal) when the layer of skin lining the canal becomes inflamed. A big telltale sign that your dog has a dairy allergy is itchy skin and rashes. It is important that your vet does testing to choose the appropriate medication. Based on these results, an initial ear medication can be started. The Ultimate Guide, Do dogs like being with humans?
Can certain foods cause ear infections in dogs? What to Know We need to be sure the infection has completely resolved. Symptoms of ear infections in dogs are hard to miss. As far as ear infections in dogs are concerned, there are three different types otitis externa (external), otitis interna (internal), and otitis media (middle). Not all bacteria respond to the same antibiotic and dogs with allergies that have been on and off ear medications multiple times have a higher risk of developing more severe bacterial infections with more resistance to available antibiotics. Once the details of your dogs ear infection are known, therapy will likely consist of multiple elements that may include topical, oral, or surgical therapies. Most uncomplicated ear infections resolve within 12 weeks, once appropriate treatment begins. If your dog is a swimmer or is bathed regularly, clean his ears as soon as possible after water exposure. American Kennel Club (AKC) Common signs of dog ear infections include: Occasionally, dogs can experience hearing loss or balance issues. If Can Ingredients in Dog Food Cause Ear Infections? Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are prone to allergies and underlying sensitivities leading to chronic or recurrent ear infection. How to Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs and Puppies. Food allergies are one of the most prevalent causes of ear infections in dogs, especially those with food sensitivity. Lift your dogs ear flap to straighten out the L shape of their ear canal and insert a real cotton ball (not synthetic) into the ear. Just because these are the most prevalent allergy triggers, it doesnt mean they are the only ones. Schnauzers and Poodles often have excess hair deep in the ear canal. Identifying and Treating Fungal Infections in Dogs, Flea and Tick Prevention and Treatment for Dogs, in 2018, Embrace pet insurance listed dog ear infections as third on the list of the top five dog medical conditions. Dogs with food allergies or non-seasonal environmental allergies may have ear infections recurring throughout the year. See your veterinarian right away if you detect signs of an ear infection. Be sure to gently dry your dogs ears after a swim to help prevent infection. Can Dog Food Cause Ear Infections? Highly recommended! Does your dog excessively scratch at their ears? Look for foods that say limited antigen or hydrolyzed protein.. Some of the most common offenders include carbohydrates, sugars, lactose, and yeast. This grain-free option works perfectly with allergic and sensitive dogs and offers them the right balance of healthy antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to promote overall wellbeing. And if you prefer a more natural approach for treating your dogs ear infection, these tips might come in handy: Apple Cider Vinegar is the magic ingredient that could help kill bacteria and yeast and help your dog recover from an ear infection. View on Amazon . By Rachel Giordano Updated on Feb 2, 2023 Share Vet approved Reviewed & Fact-Checked By Dr. Maxbetter Vizelberg DVM (Veterinarian) The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Your vet will evaluate both ears, and the exam may include: Your veterinarian will thoroughly clean your dogs ears using a medicated ear cleanser. Heres how to finally break the cycle and get your pup some much needed relief. Dog owners shouldnt clean their dogs ears more than 2-3 times weekly to avoid irritation unless instructed by your veterinarian.
7 Best Dog Foods for Ear Infections in 2023 - Pet Keen Dogs can also get skin yeast infectionsand youll know it. When some dogs eat substances that trigger an allergic reaction, the inflammation . If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale. Lets go over each one. Thats why its important to prevent infections and seek early treatment when problems arise. Causes. If a dog has healthy ears and has not had infections, she often advises pet parents not to pluck. Top Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavors. After so long, the culprit should reveal itself. This ones a popular choice amongst animal nutritionist for including the perfect ingredients to support your canines immune health. Dogs can also have an infection in one or both ears. sensitivities, Features EPA and DHA for enhanced brain function, No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors, Excessive head shaking or constant head tilting, Yellow, brown, or bloody discharge from the ear canal.
Dog Ear Infections and How to Ease Them | Your Dog Advisor Let the oil cool completely before applying the oil on the infected ear using a cotton ball. Make sure you do your research and pick a dog food thats highly regarded, or you can check out the top selection weve shared in this article. Lactose intolerance is linked more to gastrointestinal upset versus skin irritation. Novel proteins use a new protein source that has never been introduced to your dogs system before. To combat these types of allergies, dogs often undergo a series of food trials to eliminate different ingredients. In fact, it makes up only a small percentage of dog food allergies total. Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula dry dog food is a cost-effective option for those seeking a dog diet that can aid in the treatment of ear infections. This is why many vets suggest trying a grain-free dog food for ear infections, as wheat is a common allergen and could trigger both skin and ear infections. Royal Canin is one of the most trusted brands for sensitive dogs, and is one of the best sources of hypoallergenic food options. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Most ear infections in dogs will have a dark discharge or drainage, swelling, visible irritation or inflammation, scabbing or crust around the ears, and usually comes with a foul odor. Dr. Wendy Brooks, DVM, DABVP, notes that if a large amount of debris present, a veterinarian must perform a thorough deep clean while the pet is under sedation.2. Essential Tips, Can dogs sense mental illness in humans? Believe it or not, there is a difference between lactose allergy and lactose intolerance. But their unrelenting energy can tax your patience and make a mess. How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick, Top Ingredients: Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Barley, Peas, Potato Protein, Canola Oil. Ear infections in dogs are incredibly unpleasant and uncomfortable for your dog, and they can have serious risks if left untreated. It isnt uncommon to see this these days, as studies are proving. Ear mites are the typical culprit. Once youve detected the problem, you should take your dog to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. The natural oregano oil can help treat ear infection as it has rich antibacterial properties.
Dog Ear Infections: Treating Dog Ear Mites and More - WebMD Pet Health Allergies to fleas, foods, and things in the environment like molds, pollens, and dander are the most common underlying causes for allergic otitis. If your dog has been around water, be sure to carefully dry out their ears to help prevent any water from getting trapped. Ear infections are not uncommon in canines. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Salmon & Potato Formula Dry Dog Food, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food, Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Beef Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Salmon & Lentils Recipe Dry Dog Food, The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Turkey Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4kNQk9lN6M, How to Change your pets food (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4kNQk9lN6M), Dog Ear Infections: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention, Our Top 5 Natural Remedies For Dog Ear Infections, 6 Tips for Treating Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats, Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Barley, Peas, Potato Protein, Canola Oil, Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavors, Deboned Beef, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Pea Starch, Potato Starch, Chicken Fat, Salmon, Salmon Meal, Dried Potatoes, Lentils, Chickpeas, Dried Sweet Potato, Canola Oil, Dehydrated Turkey, Organic Flaxseed, Dehydrated Potatoes, Dehydrated Spinach, Dehydrated Carrots, Veterinary-exclusive dry dog formula with Hypoallergenic Ingredients These diets derive from ingredients that do not cause allergic reactions. Allergies, seborrhea, an underactive thyroid gland, trauma, foreign objects (such as plant seeds) and tumors also cause ear inflammation. Betterpet - Advice from veterinarians and actual pet experts. Your vet may also prescribe an ear cleanser and a topical medication for you to use at home. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diets is another highly-rated dry dog food that offers a variety of formulas such as: duck and oatmeal, grain free turkey and potato, lamb and oatmeal, grain free salmon and potato, a salmon and pea formula for healthy weight management, and a small breed salmon and potato. These supplements can reduce inflammation, which may lessen the risk of ear infections, says Lund. There are always symptoms to indicate a problem. Otitis is inflammation of the ear. Diseases, where the immune system attacks healthy cells, are rare but can result in inflammation in your dogs ear canals and lead to infections. So instead of waiting for more signs to appear, take your dog to a vet for an evaluation. One option is Royal Canin HP Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein dog food. Heat two tablespoons of coconut oil in a pan. Bacterial and yeast infections Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of natural yeast in your dog's ear, most commonly stemming from allergies. There are a variety of different foods that can cause yeast infections in dogs' ears. This ensures the moisture is adequately removed to prevent yeast and bacteria from getting a chance to colonize the ear canals., Dr. Jill Abraham, a board-certified dermatology specialist with Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in Midtown, New York, suggests placing a cotton ball in the ears during bath time to keep them dry. Allergies, seborrhea, an underactive thyroid gland, trauma, foreign objects and tumors also cause ear inflammation. Your vet may recommend sedating your dog to thoroughly clean out the ear and better assess the eardrum before starting treatment. Fleas some dogs can develop an infection due to flea bites. If the eardrum is not healthy, your vet will likely recommend oral medications and very select topical treatments. The diet needs to be fed for at least 2-3 months to assess the response and a few diets may need to be tried. Routine care at home is recommended. However, they can Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria, yeast, or a combination of both. 1. . Colloidal Silver (10ppm) dropped in ears for yeast/infection. Continue reading to learn more about allergic otitis including symptoms, testing, and treatments.