Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit us at Renfrew Animal Hospital. They are uncomfortable, sometimes painful, and often frustrating for pet owners because they can keep coming back. The good news is that with the right approach, most ear infections are very manageable, and many are preventable.
This guide goes deeper than surface-level advice. We will walk through why ear infections happen, why they recur, how they are properly treated, and what you can realistically do at home to reduce the chances of seeing them again.
Why Dogs Get Ear Infections So Often
A dog’s ear is very different from a human ear. The ear canal is long and shaped like an L, which makes it easy for moisture, debris, and microorganisms to get trapped. Once that environment becomes warm and moist, bacteria and yeast can multiply quickly.
Some dogs are also simply more prone than others. Floppy ears reduce airflow. Hairy ear canals trap debris. Dogs that swim frequently or get regular baths are exposed to more moisture. However, the most common factor we see is underlying inflammation.
In many cases, the ear infection is not the primary problem. It is a symptom of something else going on in the body.
The Most Common Underlying Causes
Allergies
Allergies are the leading cause of recurring ear infections. Dogs with food or environmental allergies often develop ear inflammation before showing signs on their skin. The inflamed ear canal produces excess wax, creating ideal conditions for infection.
Yeast Overgrowth
Yeast thrives in warm, inflamed ears, especially in dogs with allergies. These infections often have a strong, musty odor and dark discharge.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections can occur on their own or alongside yeast. They often produce yellow or green discharge and can be very painful if left untreated.
Foreign Material
Grass seeds, dirt, or plant debris can trigger sudden ear infections, especially after outdoor activity.
Hormonal Conditions
Conditions like hypothyroidism weaken the skin’s natural defenses and make infections harder to clear completely.
Ear Mites
Ear mites are uncommon in adult dogs but can still occur, particularly in households with multiple pets.
Why Ear Infections Keep Coming Back
Recurrent ear infections usually happen for one of three reasons.
The underlying cause was never addressed. Treating the infection without managing allergies often leads to repeat flare-ups.
Medication was stopped too early. Even if the ear looks normal, infection can still be present at a microscopic level.
The treatment was not targeted correctly. Not all ear infections are the same, and the wrong medication will not fully resolve the problem.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we routinely examine ear samples under the microscope. This allows us to identify whether bacteria, yeast, or both are present and choose treatment that is specific and effective.
Signs of an Ear Infection You Should Not Ignore
Some signs are obvious, while others are subtle and easy to miss.
- Head shaking or scratching
- Redness inside the ear
- Unusual odor
- Dark, yellow, or thick discharge
- Sensitivity or pain when the ear is touched
- Head tilt or balance issues in severe cases
- Behavior changes such as irritability or lethargy
If your dog shows signs of pain or develops a sudden head tilt, this should be treated as urgent. Infections can spread deeper into the ear if not addressed promptly.
How Ear Infections Are Properly Treated
Treatment depends entirely on what is found during the exam.
Most infections require medicated ear drops that target bacteria, yeast, or both. Some cases also need oral medication, particularly if inflammation is severe or the infection is deep.
Pain management is an important part of treatment. Inflamed ears are painful, and controlling discomfort helps speed healing.
For dogs with chronic ear issues, we may recommend allergy management, dietary trials, or long-term maintenance strategies to reduce flare-ups.
Most ear infections respond very well when treated early and appropriately.
Ear Cleaning: When It Helps and When It Hurts
Ear cleaning can be beneficial, but it is not always the solution.
Cleaning removes debris and discharge so medication can work properly. However, over-cleaning or using inappropriate products can worsen inflammation.
Hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or homemade solutions should never be used unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we show pet owners exactly how to clean ears safely and explain how often cleaning should be done based on each dog’s needs.
How to Prevent Future Ear Infections
Prevention plans should be tailored to the individual dog, but these steps are consistently effective.
- Address allergies early
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Use only veterinarian-recommended ear cleaners
- Complete all prescribed medication courses
- Schedule follow-up exams when recommended
For dogs with recurring infections, regular ear checks allow us to catch inflammation early before it becomes painful.
When to Book a Veterinary Visit
If head shaking lasts more than a day, discharge is visible, or your dog shows signs of pain, it is time for an exam. Waiting can turn a simple infection into a more complicated and uncomfortable problem.
Ear infections are common, but they are also very treatable. With proper diagnosis, targeted treatment, and a plan that fits your dog’s lifestyle, most dogs can remain comfortable and infection-free.
If your dog is dealing with ear issues or repeat infections, the team at Renfrew Animal Hospital is here to help address the root cause, not just the symptoms.