Dog Health
Issues - Description of Dog Ear Infections - Otitis Externa
The term for Ear Disease is Otitis Externa from the Latin for
inflammation of the ear. It is a common problem in dogs and
studies show that up to 20% of all dogs are affected by dog ear
infections which underlines the need for regular, weekly cleaning
of the dog's ears.
Dog Health
Problems - Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections - Otitis Externa
Dog Ear Infections are marked by pain and discomfort which is
displayed by irritability. The most common signs of a problem with a
dog is ear scratching, head shaking and an unpleasant smell.
Healthy ears are shiny, free from discharge or wax and pale pink
inside.
Dog Health
Questions - Dogs susceptible to Dog Ear Infections - Otitis
Externa
A large number of dogs suffer from ear problems and not one
particular breed is particularly susceptible however, spaniels
often suffer from acute inflamation often caused by grass seed.
Research has also shown that some dogs susceptible to rare
hereditary diseases such as Dermatomyositis in Collies and
Shetland Sheepdogs and Seborrhea in Shar Peis and West Highland
White Terriers .
Dog Health
Questions - Dog Ear Infections Causes - Otitis Externa
There
are several possible causes of Dog Ear Infections which include:
Self inflected problems due to
excess scratching
Excess moisture - especially
seen in dogs with floppy ears such as spaniels
Hereditary diseases
Allergies
Foreign bodies such as grass
seeds
Parasites such as ear mites
Dog Health
Information - Treatment of Dog Ear Infections - Otitis Externa
The treatment of dog ear infections varies according to the cause
and will often include the use of antibiotics. If a dog shows
signs of a bad ear infection the Veterinary Surgeon should be
consulted as soon as possible. It should also be noted that
attempts to clean an infected ear could aggravate the situation.
Dog Health
Advice
We hope that the canine health information and dog health advice
has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are
in doubt about your Dog's Health please consult your Canine Health
Specialist.
Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems
The sole purpose of the Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems is as a reference
manual to provide useful information to dog and puppy owners. It
is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat sick dogs or as a
substitute for obtaining professional veterinary advice. Please
remember that if you are in any doubt about your Dog's Health
please consult your Canine Veterinary Specialist immediately.
