Dog Ear Infection: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care

Ear infections are a common issue in dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. They may develop quickly and often worsen over time, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed.

If your dog is showing signs of ear irritation, it’s important to recognize the symptoms early and understand when veterinary care is needed.

Common Causes of Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections in dogs are often caused by bacteria, yeast, or underlying conditions that create an ideal environment for infection. Common causes include:

• Bacterial infections
• Yeast infections
• Allergies (environmental or food-related)
• Moisture trapped in the ears (after bathing or swimming)
• Ear mites (more common in puppies)
• Excessive ear wax buildup
• Foreign objects (grass, debris)
• Narrow or floppy ear canals that trap moisture

In many cases, ear infections are linked to allergies or chronic ear conditions.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Ear infections can worsen quickly, so it’s important to watch for signs that your dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

You should seek care if your dog:

• Is shaking their head frequently
• Is scratching or pawing at their ears
• Has redness or swelling inside the ear
• Has a strong or foul odor from the ears
• Has discharge (brown, yellow, or black)
• Cries or shows pain when the ears are touched
• Has balance issues or tilts their head

If symptoms are severe or worsening, prompt care is recommended.

How We Diagnose Ear Infections in Dogs

At Nexus Veterinary Urgent Care, we evaluate ear infections by identifying the type and cause of the infection.

Diagnostics may include:

• Thorough ear examination
• Ear cytology to identify bacteria or yeast
• Evaluation for ear mites or foreign objects
• Assessment for underlying allergies or skin conditions
• Additional testing depending on severity

This allows us to provide targeted treatment based on what’s causing the infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the ear infection.

Common treatments may include:

• Prescription ear medications (antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory)
• Ear cleaning and flushing
• Medications to relieve pain and inflammation
• Treatment for underlying allergies
• Follow-up care for chronic or recurring infections

Proper treatment is important to prevent recurrence and complications.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

We provide same-day urgent care to help your pet get the care they need as soon as possible in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk. Visit us at 1124 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or call us at 757-974-8111.