Alaskan Sled Dogs: Causes & Solutions for Deafness
Why Alaskan Malamutes Have Floppy Ears
1. Ear Mites in Dogs: If an Alaskan Malamute, which is typically known for its erect ears, suddenly develops a塌 ear and is unable to stand them up again, it might be due to an ear mite infection. This can lead to vestibular disorders, causing the dog to walk unsteadily and tilt its head, along with the ears drooping.
2. Calcium Deficiency: A longterm lack of calcium in an Alaskan Malamute can result in improper development and growth of its skeleton, leading to the inability to stand up its ears even as it reaches maturity, with the ears remaining droopy.
3. Genetic Factors: The Alaskan Malamute's floppy ears could also be attributed to a genetic condition known as "soft ear." This condition is incurable and often renders the affected dogs infertile.
What to Do About an Alaskan Malamute's Floppy Ears?
1. If the droopy ears are due to ear mites, the owner should first clean the dog's ear canal with ear powder and a cotton swab to remove any ear hair and debris. Then, a petspecific ear mite treatment drop should be applied to the ear canal, allowing the solution to mix thoroughly before the dog shakes its head to expel it. Once the ear mite issue is resolved, the ears should naturally stand up.
2. For cases where calcium deficiency is the cause, the owner should adjust the dog's diet to include highquality calciumrich dog food or calcium supplements. Additionally, regular sun exposure can enhance calcium absorption. An alternative method is to cut a foam tube into a shape that fits the dog's ears and use eyelash glue to attach it to the inside of the ears. This should be done consistently for about two months, and the ears should start to stand up. However, it's crucial to ensure that the ear canal remains unobstructed to prevent any other complications.
That wraps up the information on the reasons and solutions for Alaskan Malamutes with floppy ears. I hope this has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinary expert.
