Teddy Dog Ear Itch, Scratching, and Head Shaking: Treat

When a Teddy Bear dog experiences an itchy or uncomfortable ear, they often resort to scratching their ears or shaking their heads to alleviate the discomfort. However, if the cause is not promptly identified and treated, the dog may suffer from complications such as ear infections or hematoma due to excessive scratching.

So, what could be causing a Teddy Bear dog's ears to itch, and what kind of medication should be used to treat it?

Part 1: Common Causes of Ear Itching in Teddy Bear Dogs

1. Ear Mites: These are common parasites that reside in a dog's ear canal, feeding on blood and ear secretions, leading to severe itching.

2. Ear Inflammation: Dogs with weakened immune systems, ears that have been exposed to water, or those infected with ear mites may develop secondary bacterial or yeast infections, leading to otitis externa or otitis media. Symptoms include redness, increased discharge, itching, and pain, and in severe cases, pus may leak and hearing may decrease.

3. Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to certain foods or environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, leading to allergic otitis, which causes redness and intense itching.

Part 2: The Consequences of Constant Ear Scratching and Head Shaking

Continual ear scratching and head shaking in Teddy Bear dogs can lead to several issues:

● Ear Trauma and Infection: While ear itching may be a symptom of otitis, persistent scratching can lead to skin damage and exacerbate infections, potentially causing infections in the ear canal, behind the ear, and surrounding skin, making treatment more challenging.

● Ear Hematoma: Frequent head shaking can cause the ear's subcutaneous blood vessels to rupture, leading to a hematoma filled with blood and tissue fluid between the ear cartilage and skin. If not addressed promptly, this can not only affect appearance but also lead to severe otitis externa.

Part 3: Medications to Solve the Problem

Before considering medication, it's advisable to fit your dog with an Elizabethan collar to prevent further scratching and potential infections.

Next, inspect your dog's ears. If they are dirty, use a product like Ear Cleanse (Pet Ear Care Solution) to clean them. After applying the solution, gently massage the base of the ear for 12 minutes to soften the earwax. Then, allow your dog to shake out the solution and any debris, and use a medical cotton ball to wipe the ear clean.

Finally, apply an ear medication with antiinflammatory and antiparasitic properties, such as Ear Clear (Miconazole Nitrate and Neomycin Sulfate Ointment). This ointment contains miconazole nitrate, neomycin sulfate, triamcinolone acetonide, and permethrin. Miconazole nitrate and neomycin sulfate have antibacterial and antifungal properties, while triamcinolone acetonide primarily relieves itching and swelling, and suppresses allergic reactions. Permethrin is an insecticide that effectively kills mites in the ear canal.

Of course, if your Teddy Bear dog's ears are severely inflamed, with symptoms like pus, bleeding, pain (refusing to be touched), or hearing loss (manifested by dull reactions, head tilting, or behavioral changes), it's best to seek veterinary care immediately.