Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Ear infections in dogs are usually treated with cleaning plus prescription ear medication chosen after your vet looks at a sample under the microscope. Some long-acting treatments are applied at the clinic. Recurring infections almost always have an underlying cause, most often allergies, so treating that is key. Don’t put anything in an infected ear until your vet confirms the eardrum is intact.
Signs
- Head shaking and scratching at ears
- Redness, swelling, or odor
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- Pain when the ear is touched
- Head tilt or loss of balance (possible middle or inner ear involvement)
How vets treat them
- Ear exam with an otoscope, checking the eardrum
- Cytology: a swab examined for yeast and bacteria
- Culture for severe or recurring infections
- Cleaning, sometimes under sedation
- Medicated ear drops or long-acting gels applied at the clinic
- Oral medication for severe swelling, pain, or deeper infection
- Treating underlying causes: allergies, foreign bodies, ear mites, or ear canal changes
Applying ear medication at home
- Clean first if your vet advises, using a vet-recommended cleaner.
- Fill the canal as directed and massage the base of the ear.
- Finish the full course and keep the recheck appointment.
What to avoid
- Cotton swabs deep in the canal
- Hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, vinegar, or oils
- Leftover ear medications
- Stopping treatment when it looks better but before the recheck
Recurring infections
Environmental and food allergies are the most common underlying causes. See skin allergies in dogs.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis externa in dogs
- Paterson S. Discovering the causes of otitis externa. In Pract. 2016
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis media and interna
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.