A lot of owners might not be aware that what looks like a lack of appetite might actually be the result of an ear infection. That’s because your dog isn’t refusing to eat due to a sudden hunger strike but, rather, the infection in his ear is making it hard for him to chew .
What happens if a dogs ear infection goes untreated?
What Untreated Ear Infections May Lead To. Ear infections that are not treated can spread from the outer part of the ear into the middle or inner ear of the dog . When the infection or inflammation spreads to the middle ear, it is termed otitis media.
What foods cause ear infections in dogs?
An excess of grain and/or sugar in the diet is a common causes of ear infections in dogs. Sugar feeds the yeast already in the body and causes an overgrowth, which results in the dark, yeasty-smelling buildup inside the ears.
How can I treat my dog’s ear infection without going to the vet?
Apple cider vinegar works by killing both yeast and bacteria . Use a mixture of 50% organic apple cider vinegar and 50% water, soak a cotton ball and clean your dog’s ears. If you notice your dog in pain or her ears drying out too much, discontinue use and see your vet.
How long can a dog live with an ear infection?
While most uncomplicated infections resolve within 1 to 2 weeks , underlying conditions or severe symptoms may take longer or lead to chronic ear infection in dogs.
Can a dog licking other dog’s ear cause an ear infection?
When two dogs are on friendly terms as part of the same family, they become very comfortable grooming each other. Licking each other’s ears is just one way to show that. What’s more, it can ward off ear mites, but too much licking can cause irritation and possibly an ear infection .
How long can a dog go with an ear infection?
With treatment, early-stage ear infections will usually clear up within a week or two . If your dog’s ear infection is more severe or is caused by an underlying health condition, treatment may be more challenging and may take months to resolve.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections in one ear?
Ear mites, foreign material such as grass awns and by far and away the most common is food allergies . Food allergies are one of the most common causes of recurrent ear infections in dogs. Food allergies in pets appear much differently than in humans and result in inflammation, often in the ear and GI tract.
Does yogurt help with dog ear infections?
Greek yogurt is particularly helpful for dogs taking antibiotics, which kill off some of the good bacteria in a dog’s gut. The probiotics in Greek yogurt also fight yeast infections, which can help dogs with recurring ear or skin infections .
Can I put hydrogen peroxide in my dog’s ear?
We do not recommend the use of cotton swabs, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your dog’s ears . These products can cause inflammation to the ear canal and may worsen an ear infection.
What is the brown stuff in my dog’s ears?
A waxy, yellow, or reddish-brown ear discharge can also be a sign your dog has an ear infection , which can be a result of allergies, mites, polyps, overproduction of ear wax, excessive bathing or swimming (which can leave too much moisture in the ears), or other problems.
Can apple cider vinegar cure ear infections in dogs?
Apple cider vinegar helps by acting as a cleanser and an anti-fungal and antibacterial agent . Dabbing this into your dog’s ears sparingly can help to clean out the inside of their ears and treat the infection.
Are ear infections in dogs painful?
Ear infections are painful . Many dogs will shake their head and scratch their ears trying to relieve the discomfort. The ears often become red and inflamed and develop an offensive odor. A black or yellowish discharge commonly occurs.
Why do dogs lick eachothers mouths?
Deference. An adult dog might lick another dog’s face to show subordination . In other words, he wants to say “you’re in charge, and I mean you no harm.” If a dog meets a peer he highly respects, he might lick that dog’s face to show deference.
Why does my dog keep licking my other dog’s ears?
Why do some dogs lick other dogs’ ears? Dogs may lick another dog’s ear to say hello and let them know that they’re friendly . They may also do it as part of a grooming and bonding process or simply because they enjoy the taste of earwax. Some dogs may be more likely to lick ears when they’re bored.
Why does my dog lick my son’s ears?
If your dog licks your ears, they may be signalling a high level of comfort . Mutual grooming is common among pack members, and you may be perceived as just one of the pack. Licking your ears may also be a sign of love, care and respect. In other words, when your dog licks your ears, they’re complimenting you!
Why wont my dogs ear infection go away?
It’s best to see your veterinarian as soon as you notice symptoms because ear infections won’t go away on their own . Your veterinarian will take a swab of the ear discharge and look at it under a microscope to see if it’s mites, yeast, or bacteria, and then prescribe the appropriate medication.
What can I feed a dog with chronic ear infections?
- Hill’s Prescription Sensitivities Dog Food — Best Overall. ...
- Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Food — Best Value. ...
- Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Dry Dog Food — Best for Puppies. ...
- Forza10 Nutraceutic Sensitive Ear Plus Dog Food. ...
- Nutro Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Dry Dog Food.
