How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?

Identifying ear infections is easy if you know what to look for in terms of behavior and physical signs. Foul odors, such as sour or sweet smells, will often indicate a bacterial or yeast problem. My Spaniel's yeasty smell told me he had his first infection. Abnormal discharges and reactions to pain confirm that something is medically wrong.

Pain indicators range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of allergen infection. Head-shyness indicates mild pain, while vocalizing or growling indicates severe pain. I noticed my terrier flinch when I touched him on the ears. Balance problems or head tilt suggest a more serious infection that merits immediate treatment.

Home monitoring consists of weekly ear inspections during grooming. Commence by lifting the ear flaps to see if there is any redness, discharge, or swelling. Use a flashlight to inspect the canals. Since infections frequently affect one ear, compare both ears, as often one side shows more of an effect.

When symptoms are noticed, a professional diagnosis is necessary. Veterinarians use an otoscope to examine the ear canal and obtain swabs for analysis. My neighbor didn't take her lab (which has chronic ear trouble) to the vet in time. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent hearing damage.

Preventative care reduces infection risks through proper cleaning routines. Use breed-specific schedules and always dry your retriever's ears if they are in the water. After initiating an appropriate routine, my retriever has remained infection-free. Regular maintenance leads to a healthier, happier dog.

Read the full article: Dog Ear Cleaning: Essential Steps & Tips