Ear infection in dogs - why does it recur?

📞 Treatment of ear diseases in Vantaa: 010 739 9130

Canine ear infection (otitis externa) is one of the most common reasons to seek veterinary attention. However, unfortunately, the ailment often returns immediately after the course of medication.

Why does ear infection recur? Because inflammation is only a symptom, not the actual cause.

Cause and effect

Ear infection is almost always caused by something of the predisposing factor, which changes the conditions of the ear canal favorable for yeasts and bacteria.

1. Allergy (The most common cause): Atopia or food allergy causes swelling and itching of the skin of the ear canal. This is the perfect breeding ground for yeast.
2. Structure: Lush ears (e.g. spaniels) or hairy ear canals prevent air from circulating, causing the ear to “meow”.
3. Foreign object: Hay or hair that has fallen into the ear.
4. Tumors or polyps: Stenosis in the ear canal.

How to break the thread?

At Animal Hospital Sacrum, we don't just treat the symptom, we look for the cause.

• Cytological sample: We look under a microscope to see if there are yeast, rod or cocci bacteria in the ear. This determines the choice of the drug.
• Cleansing: If the ear is filled with secretions, the drug will not work. Often the ear needs to be rinsed in the clinic (sometimes under sedation).
• Treatment of the underlying disease: If there is an underlying allergy, ear infections will stop only when the allergy is brought under control.

Symptoms — when to see a doctor?

• The dog shakes its head or scratches its ears.
• The ear smells bad (yeast smells sweet, bacteria rotten).
• The ear reddens and is hot.

Do not use old, leftover drops left in the closet! The wrong drug can aggravate the situation or cause bacterial resistance.

📍 Come and show your ears to an expert: Porttisuontie 13, Vantaa.