Causes & Symptoms of Dog Ear Inflammation - Quick Guide

Section 1: Causes of Canine External Ear Inflammation

It's quite common for dogs, especially smaller breeds, to develop external ear inflammation due to moisture in their ears. Some might be surprised at how such a seemingly minor issue can lead to such severe consequences. The reason lies in the small size of these dogs' ears, which also feature narrow ear canals and a considerable amount of hair. This combination makes it difficult for water to escape once it enters their ears. Many pet owners may not be aware of this, and often fail to protect their pets' ears during baths. Without proper drying after a bath or after getting wet in the rain, the ears remain damp, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and leading to otitis externa, or external ear inflammation.

In addition to infections caused by parasites, foreign objects, and bacterial or fungal infections, certain diseases can also lead to canine otitis externa, such as immunological skin diseases. However, these conditions usually present with other symptoms, so if you notice your dog exhibiting abnormal signs along with otitis externa, it's essential to take them to a veterinary clinic for immediate treatment.

Section 2: Symptoms of Canine External Ear Inflammation

1. In the early stages of external ear inflammation, the dog's ear canal may appear red, swollen, and itchy. They might exhibit signs of discomfort, such as shaking their heads, scratching at their ears with their hind legs, or leaving yellow, puslike discharge that stains the fur around the ear, making it appear dirty.

2. As the inflammation worsens, the swelling in the area may increase, or pusfilled blisters may appear. The yellow discharge may turn brown and black, emitting a foul odor, and lead to hair loss around the ear base, as well as a decrease in hearing.

3. If the otitis externa becomes chronic, the condition may fluctuate between periods of improvement and recurrence. This can cause thickening of the ear canal tissue, potentially leading to tumors. The ear skin may thicken, the ear shape may change, and hearing may be impaired.

These are the insights provided by Oxygen Pet Doctor regarding the causes and symptoms of canine external ear inflammation. We hope this information helps clarify any confusion and provides valuable guidance.