Treating Dog Ear Infections at Home

Ear infections are common in dogs and can cause significant discomfort. Before trying home remedies for dog ear infections, it's important to have your vet examine your dog to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Mild ear infections can sometimes be treated at home after a vet visit, in tandem with medication. Home remedies may help soothe irritation and discomfort while medication clears up the infection.

Causes of Dog Ear Infections

Several factors can increase a dog's risk of developing an ear infection, including:

Allergies
Excess moisture and water in the ears
Heavy hair growth inside ears
Ear mites
Foreign objects lodged in the ear
Autoimmune diseases
Skin infections

Bacteria and yeast often take advantage of the inflamed, irritated skin in the ears to cause an infection.

Signs of an Ear Infection

Be on the lookout for these common signs of an ear infection in dogs:

Head shaking or head tilting
Ear scratching or rubbing
Redness and inflammation in or around the ear
Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
Odor coming from the ears
Crusts or scabs around the outer ear
Hair loss around the ear
Walking in circles or loss of balance
Sensitivity or pain around the ears

Veterinary Treatment

Only a vet can diagnose and develop an appropriate treatment plan for a dog ear infection. Treatment typically includes:

Examining the ear canal with an otoscope
Culturing any discharge to identify microorganisms causing infection
Oral antibiotics or antifungal medication
Anti-inflammatory medications
Medicated ear drops or flush

For severe or chronic infections, surgery may be needed to open up the ear canal for drainage and ventilation.

Relieving Discomfort at Home

While vet prescribed medications clear up the underlying infection, home remedies can help soothe inflammation and discomfort.

Some options your vet may recommend trying include:

Acetic Acid

Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1-2 parts rubbing alcohol. Soak cotton balls and squeeze out excess liquid. Wipe just inside the ear flap and around the outer ear.

The acetic acid in vinegar has antibacterial properties while the alcohol helps dry excess earwax and debris.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel contains tannins with mild anti-inflammatory properties. Dip cotton balls in undiluted witch hazel and clean around the outer ear.

Aloe Vera Gel

The mucilaginous polysaccharides in aloe vera gel help soothe irritated skin and fight inflammation and itching. Gently wipe a thin layer around the ear flap opening.

Coconut Oil

Apply a few small dabs of virgin coconut oil around the outer ears to lubricate, soothe dry skin, and prevent flies from being attracted to discharge.

Avoid putting coconut oil or other oils down into the ear canal as this can worsen infections.

Chamomile Tea Bags

The aroma compounds in chamomile have been shown to relieve skin inflammation. Steep a couple of tea bags in hot water. Let cool to skin temperature and press gently around irritated ears.

Cold Compress

Wrap an ice pack or frozen bag of peas in a towel and apply for 5-10 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation, numb pain, and reduce itching.

Be careful not to freeze the skin. Only apply cold compress to the outside of ears.

When to Avoid Home Treatment

While these home remedies may provide some relief in mild cases, they are not a substitute for veterinary care. Only attempt home treatment for ear infections under veterinary guidance.

See your vet immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:

Your dog is in excessive pain or discomfort
Swollen lymph nodes behind their jawbone
Crusting and scabs in and around their ear
Green or bloody discharge
Foul odor coming from ears
Loss of balance or trouble walking
Persistent head tilt or walking in circles

Chronic or severe infections left untreated can result in permanent ear damage or hearing loss.

Caring for Ears after Infection

To help prevent another ear infection after treatment:

Gently wipe ears 1-2 times per week with dry cotton balls to remove debris and excess wax. Do not insert anything into the ear canal.
Keep your dog's ears clean and dry after walks, baths, swimming etc.
Brush hair gently around ears daily using your fingers or a cotton ball, especially in long haired dogs.
Have your vet show you how to apply prescription ear cleaners as needed.
Avoid exposing your dog to irritants like dust, smoke, and other harsh chemicals.
Make sure your dog receives any allergy medications as prescribed.

Dietary Considerations for Ear Health

Diet can play a key role in promoting ear health after an infection. Some tips:

Feed your dog high quality food with meat as the first ingredient
Avoid foods with excessive corn, wheat, soy, eggs, dairy, or other common allergens
Supplement with omega-3 rich fish oil to reduce inflammation
Ensure diet provides optimal protein and micronutrients
Keep your dog hydrated with access to clean, fresh water at all times

Check with your vet about the ideal post-infection diet for your pup!

When Are Antibiotics Necessary?

While home remedies can support conventional treatment, antibiotics are almost always necessary to fully cure a dog ear infection.

Oral or topical antibiotic drops combat infection causing pathogens. Specific antibiotics are used based on identification of microorganisms from cultures.

Antibiotics treat both bacterial and fungal infections in the ears. It is essential to finish the entire course as directed to prevent resistance and ensure elimination of the infection.

Skip the home remedies and go straight to your vet if your dog shows symptoms of an ear infection following any trauma to the head or ears.

The Bottom Line

Dog ear infections can be complex and serious if left untreated. While home treatment may provide some relief, leave clearing infections to your vet.

Work closely with your veterinarian to find the underlying cause and get prescription medication to fight the infection alongside any recommended home remedies.

With some TLC and proper treatment, your pup will be back to their happy, healthy selves in no time!

FAQs

Can I use apple cider vinegar for my dog's ear infection?

Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties and can help create an unfavorable environment for yeast and bacteria. To use it safely, dilute the apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of clean water. Dip a cotton ball in the solution and gently wipe just inside the ear flap. Do not pour vinegar into the ear canal.

Is hydrogen peroxide effective for dog ear infections?

Hydrogen peroxide can be drying and damaging to tissues. It's usually not recommended but in some cases vets may advise using a very diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse. Always follow your vet's specific advice on hydrogen peroxide for ear treatment.

Can I use coconut oil for a dog ear infection?

You can apply a small amount of coconut oil around the outer ear area to soothe skin irritation, swelling, and itchiness. But avoid putting coconut oil or other oils into the infected ear canal as this can worsen the infection.

How often should I clean my dog's ears after an infection?

Gently wipe your dog's ears about 1-2 times per week with a soft cotton ball to prevent excess buildup of wax and debris. Take care not to insert anything down into your dog's ear canal. Ask your vet to demonstrate proper technique for keeping your dog's ears clean.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.