Health & wellness
Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet. They’re also a condition that can recur, particularly in dogs with floppy or hairy ears, dogs who swim frequently, or those with underlying conditions such as allergies.
The good news is that recognising the signs early and getting treatment promptly can make a real difference to your dog’s comfort and recovery.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the common causes of dog ear infections, the signs to look out for, how they may be treated, and simple steps that may help reduce the risk of ear infections returning.
Every ear infection is different, so if you’re concerned about your dog’s ears, it’s always best to see your vet. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend the treatment that’s right for your dog.
Table of contents
- What causes ear infections in dogs?
- Signs your dog may have an ear infection
- How vets may diagnose and treat ear infections in dogs
- How to help prevent ear infections
- Why your dog’s ear infections may be recurring
- How pet insurance can help support you and your dog
What causes ear infections in dogs?
Most dog ear infections affect the outer ear canal, a condition called otitis externa. When the ear becomes inflamed, it can create a warm, moist environment that may allow bacteria and yeast to grow. Although bacteria or yeast often contribute to the infection, there’s usually an underlying reason the inflammation started in the first place.
Several factors can increase a dog’s risk of developing an ear infection, including:
- Moisture trapped in the ears after swimming or bathing
- Floppy or hairy ears that reduce airflow
- Wax build-up
- Ear mites and other parasites
- Foreign objects, such as grass seeds
- Less commonly, hormonal conditions or growths within the ear canal
Once the ear becomes inflamed, bacteria and yeast can multiply quickly, leading to signs of an ear infection that many dog owners recognise, such as head shaking, scratching, and ear discharge.
Some dogs are simply more prone to ear infections than others. Dogs with floppy ears, thick hair around the ear canal, underlying allergies, or an active lifestyle that includes plenty of swimming may need extra care to help keep their ears healthy.
The important thing to remember is that recurring ear infections often have an underlying cause. Treating the infection is only part of the solution. Identifying what’s triggering it and addressing the underlying cause can help reduce the chance of it coming back.
Signs your dog may have an ear infection
One of the most common signs that your dog may have an ear infection is persistent head shaking or ear scratching. If your dog suddenly starts shaking their head more often, scratching at one ear, or rubbing their face along the carpet or furniture, it’s worth taking a closer look.
Other signs may include:
- An unpleasant or yeasty odour coming from the ear
- Discharge that looks waxy, dark brown, yellow, or cream-coloured
- Redness, swelling, or scaly skin inside or around the ear
- Sensitivity, discomfort, or pain when the ear is touched
Some dogs may also seem quieter than usual, become reluctant to have their ears or head touched, or show signs of discomfort when chewing or yawning.
Left untreated, ear infections are unlikely to improve on their own. Instead, they can become increasingly painful and may lead to ongoing inflammation, narrowing of the ear canal, hearing changes, or even a blood-filled swelling (called an aural haematoma) caused by repeated head shaking.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to book an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. Early treatment can help relieve your dog’s discomfort and may prevent more serious complications from developing.
How vets may diagnose and treat ear infections in dogs
Because several different health conditions can cause similar signs, your vet will want to determine exactly what’s happening inside your dog’s ear before recommending treatment. They’ll usually begin by examining the ear canal with an otoscope, allowing them to look for inflammation, foreign objects, excess wax, or damage deeper inside the ear.
Your vet may also take a small swab from the ear and examine it under a microscope. This helps identify whether bacteria, yeast, ear mites, or a combination of these are causing the problem, so your dog receives the treatment that’s most likely to work.
If you’re wondering how to treat dog ear infections properly, the answer depends on what’s causing the infection.
If an ear infection is diagnosed, your vet will recommend treatment based on the underlying cause and severity of the infection.
Treatment may include:
- Cleaning the ear canal to remove wax and debris
- Medicated ear drops to treat bacterial infections or yeast overgrowth
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Oral antibiotics or antifungal medication in more severe cases
- Managing underlying health conditions that may be contributing to the infection
- Clipping excess hair around the ear opening in some breeds to improve airflow
It’s important to follow your vet’s advice and treatment plan for the full course, even if your dog seems better after a few days. Stopping treatment too early can allow the infection to return. Your vet may also recommend a follow-up appointment to make sure the infection has completely cleared before treatment is stopped.
How to help prevent ear infections
Not every ear infection can be prevented, but a few simple habits can help reduce the risk, especially if your dog is naturally more prone to them:
Dry your dog’s ears after swimming or bathing
Moisture trapped inside the ear creates a warm, moist environment that may encourage bacteria and yeast to grow. Gently drying the outer ear and ear folds with a towel after swimming or bathing can help reduce the risk of ear infections.
Check your dog’s ears regularly
Get into the habit of checking your dog’s ears regularly. Look for redness, unusual wax build-up, or odour, as these can be early signs of ear infection.
Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner
Some dogs, particularly those with floppy or hairy ears, may benefit from routine ear cleaning. Always use a cleaner recommended by your vet and follow their instructions carefully. Your vet can show you how to clean your dog’s ears safely.
Never use cotton buds
Avoid putting cotton buds or any other objects into your dog’s ear canal. They can push debris further inside and may even damage the delicate tissues of the ear.
Keep excess hair under control
For dogs with particularly hairy ears, keeping the hair around the ear opening neatly trimmed may improve airflow and help reduce moisture build-up.
Manage underlying health conditions
If your dog has recurring ear infections, an underlying health condition may be playing a role. For example, allergies are a common cause of recurrent ear infections in dogs. Working with your vet to identify and manage any underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk of future ear infections.
Why your dog’s ear infections may be recurring
Recurring ear infections are common in dogs, and they’re often a sign that there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Allergies are a common cause. Reactions to certain foods or environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites can increase the risk of ear infections, and unless the allergy is managed, infections are more likely to recur.
Parasites can also contribute to recurring irritation, which is why it’s important to keep up with your dog’s year-round parasite prevention.
Your dog’s anatomy may also play a role. Floppy ears, narrow ear canals and thick hair around the ears can reduce airflow and trap moisture, creating conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Dogs who swim frequently may also be more likely to experience repeat infections because their ears can remain damp for longer.
If your dog’s ear infections keep coming back, don’t be discouraged. Identifying and managing the underlying cause is often the key to breaking the cycle and helping keep their ears healthy over the long term.
How pet insurance can help support you and your dog
Because ear infections are so common, and can recur multiple times over a dog’s life, the cost of repeat vet visits, ear cleaning, swabs, and medication can add up, especially for dogs who are prone to them.
With RSPCA Pet Insurance, eligible health conditions are covered, which can give you the confidence to get your dog’s ears checked as soon as you notice a problem, rather than waiting. Plus, every policy contributes to vital RSPCA animal welfare initiatives, which means you’re not just protecting your own pup, you’re also supporting animals in need nationwide.
To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your pet, click here. Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote online.
Disclaimer
As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure this cover suits your needs.
References
[1] Australian Veterinary Journal. Incidence of presenting complaints and diagnoses in insured Australian dogs. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32662531/
[2] RSPCA Pet Insurance. Golden Retriever pet insurance. Available from: https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/dog-insurance/golden-retriever/
[3] RSPCA Pet Insurance. Cavoodle pet insurance. Available from: https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/dog-insurance/cavoodle/
[4] MSD Veterinary Manual. Ear infections and Otitis Externa in Dogs. Available from: https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/ear-disorders-of-dogs/ear-infections-and-otitis-externa-in-dogs
[5] VCA Animal Hospitals. Ear Infections in Dogs (Otitis Externa). Available from: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/ear-infections-in-dogs-otitis-externa
FAQs
If your dog keeps shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or rubbing their head on the floor or furniture, it could be a sign of an ear infection. However, these behaviours may also be caused by ear mites, allergies, or something lodged in the ear, such as a grass seed. Because there are several possible causes, it’s best to have your dog’s ears checked by your vet rather than waiting to see if the problem goes away on its own.
A strong, unpleasant, or yeasty smell is often one of the first signs that something isn’t quite right with your dog’s ears. In many cases, it’s associated with an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast, which can develop when moisture becomes trapped in the ear, or as a result of allergies, excess wax build-up, or inflammation. Your vet can examine your dog’s ears, identify the cause, and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
For some dogs, regular ear cleaning can be a helpful part of their routine, especially if they’re prone to ear problems. If your vet recommends it, you can use a vet-approved ear cleaner and clean only the outer part of the ear, following the product instructions carefully. Never use cotton buds or insert anything into your dog’s ear canal, as this can push debris further in or cause injury. If your dog is already showing signs of an ear infection, it’s best to see your vet before cleaning their ears.
Recurring ear infections in dogs are often a sign that there’s an underlying issue that hasn’t yet been addressed. Allergies are one of the most common causes, but ear shape, frequent swimming, and parasites can also increase the risk. While treating the infection is important, working with your vet to identify and manage the underlying cause can help reduce the chance of future infections.
Ear infections are one of the most common health conditions seen in dogs, and for some dogs they can become an ongoing issue. Over time, the cost of repeat vet consultations, diagnostic tests, ear cleaning, and medication can add up.
With RSPCA Pet Insurance, you may be eligible to claim for these health conditions provided they are covered, helping you manage the costs of unexpected vet treatment. And with every policy contributing to vital RSPCA animal welfare initiatives, it’s protection with purpose. For your own pup and thousands of others across Australia.
To learn more, visit the RSPCA Pet Insurance website or get a commitment-free quote online today.
As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure this cover suits your needs.
