Ear infections are common in dogs, but the right treatment depends on what is actually happening inside the ear. Yeast, bacteria, allergies, moisture, mites, foreign material, and chronic skin disease can all cause similar symptoms.
Common signs of an ear infection
- Head shaking
- Scratching at the ears
- Redness or swelling
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- Strong odor
- Pain when the ear is touched
- Head tilt or balance problems
Why the cause matters
A veterinarian can look down the ear canal and examine a sample of discharge under a microscope. That helps identify whether yeast, bacteria, mites, or another problem is present.
How dog ear infections are treated
Treatment may include ear cleaning and prescription drops containing an antibiotic, antifungal medication, anti-inflammatory medication, or a combination of these. The choice depends on what is found in the ear.
Oral medications
Many uncomplicated outer-ear infections are treated primarily with topical medication. Oral antibiotics, antifungals, pain medication, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be used when infection is severe, extends deeper, or cannot be managed with drops alone.
What about recurring infections?
Repeated ear infections often point to an underlying issue such as environmental allergy, food allergy, chronic skin disease, excess moisture, or ear anatomy that traps debris.
Managing that underlying problem is usually more important than repeatedly treating each flare as an isolated infection.
What not to put in a painful ear
Avoid household vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, essential oils, and leftover medications unless your veterinarian specifically recommends them. Some products can sting inflamed tissue or cause complications if the eardrum is damaged.
When to seek care quickly
Prompt veterinary care is especially important if your dog has severe pain, marked swelling, blood from the ear, a persistent head tilt, loss of balance, or sudden hearing changes.
The bottom line
Dog ear infections are usually very treatable, but guessing at the cause can prolong the problem. An ear exam and simple cytology can often identify what needs to be treated and help prevent repeat infections.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis externa in animals
- Veterinary dermatology guidance on canine otitis externa
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.