Dog Ear Infections: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Ear infections are one of the most common conditions we treat at Oliver Animal Hospital in Austin, TX- and for good reason. They’re uncomfortable, can escalate quickly, and often stem from underlying issues like allergies or seasonal hazards such as foxtails, which are especially common in Texas.

If your dog has been scratching their ears, shaking their head, or showing signs of discomfort, prompt attention can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know to recognize, treat, and help prevent ear infections in dogs.

What Is an Ear Infection?

Dog ear infections, or otitis externa, involve inflammation of the external ear canal. Dogs are particularly prone due to the shape of their ears, which can trap moisture, debris, and bacteria. Common contributing factors include:

  • Allergies (environmental or food-related)
  • Frequent exposure to water (bathing, swimming)
  • Ear mites or parasites
  • Floppy ears or narrow ear canals
  • Endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism
  • Foreign material, including foxtails

Foxtails: A Hidden Cause of Ear Infections in Texas

Foxtails are sharp, barbed grass awns that can lodge in a dog’s ear canal during outdoor activities- especially in Texas fields and trails. Once inside, they burrow deeper with movement, causing pain, inflammation, and infection. They cannot be shaken out and often require veterinary removal.

Signs of a Foxtail in the Ear

  • Sudden head shaking or pawing at one ear
  • Yelping when the head or ear is touched
  • Redness, discharge, or visible swelling in one ear
  • Head tilt or disorientation

If your dog shows these symptoms after outdoor activity, don’t wait- early removal can prevent deeper infection or damage.

Why Ear Infections Require Timely Care

When left untreated, ear infections can progress beyond the outer canal and cause more serious complications, including:

  • Chronic inflammation or scarring
  • Thickened ear canals
  • Middle or inner ear disease
  • Ear hematomas from repeated head shaking
  • Hearing loss or balance issues
  • Facial nerve paralysis
  • In severe cases, surgery such as Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA)

Signs to Watch For

Symptoms of an ear infection include:

  • Head shaking or persistent ear scratching
  • Redness, heat, or swelling of the ear flap or canal
  • Discharge with odor (yellow, brown, or black)
  • Pain or sensitivity when touched
  • Loss of balance or head tilt (in advanced cases)

Diagnosing Ear Infections at Oliver Animal Hospital

When you visit us, we begin with a comprehensive exam to determine the cause and severity of the infection. This may include:

  • Physical exam and otoscopy: Visualization of the canal and eardrum. Learn how we examine and medicate the ears.
  • Cytology: A microscopic evaluation of debris to identify bacteria, yeast, or mites.
  • Culture and sensitivity testing: To guide antibiotic choice for resistant infections.
  • Advanced imaging: Considered for chronic, deep, or recurring infections.
  • Medical history review, including past infections, diet, and allergy symptoms.

How We Treat Ear Infections

Treatment is personalized and may include:

  • Veterinary ear cleaning: Safe removal of debris and wax buildup. Learn more about proper cleaning techniques.
  • Topical treatments: Antibiotics, antifungals, and anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Oral medications: For deeper infections or when systemic treatment is needed.
  • Allergy management: Diet trials or immunotherapy when allergies are a root cause.

Why Some Infections Keep Coming Back

Recurring ear infections often point to an underlying issue that hasn’t been fully addressed.

Allergies—whether environmental or food-related—are a common trigger, as is improper ear cleaning (either too aggressive or too infrequent).

In Washington, seasonal foxtail exposure is also a frequent contributor, particularly in active or outdoor dogs. Certain breeds with floppy ears or narrow canals are naturally more prone to ear problems due to limited airflow.

And in some cases, infections return simply because treatment was stopped too soon. At Tender Touch Animal Hospital, we take the time to identify and manage the root cause of your dog’s ear infections—not just the symptoms.

Preventing Future Infections

Preventive care makes a big difference. We recommend:

  • Routine ear checks and cleanings with vet-approved solutions
  • Thoroughly drying ears after swimming or bathing
  • Avoiding areas with foxtails during dry, warm months
  • Addressing skin conditions and sensitivities early
  • Supporting ear and skin health through nutrition– see how diet impacts dermatitis

What to Bring to Your Appointment

To help us provide the most effective care, please bring:

  • A list of current medications and supplements
  • History of ear problems, including treatments that did or didn’t work
  • Information about your dog’s diet and environment
  • Videos or photos of behavior at home (e.g., scratching or shaking)

FAQs

Q: Are ear infections contagious?
 A: Most are not, but ear mites can spread between pets.

Q: How long does treatment usually take?
 A: Most infections resolve in 2–4 weeks with proper care.

Q: Can I use over-the-counter drops?
 A: We strongly recommend veterinary guidance. OTC products can worsen some infections or irritate the ear canal.

Q: When should I worry about recurring infections?
 A: If your dog has more than one infection per year, a deeper investigation is likely needed.

We’re Here to Help

At Oliver Animal Hospital, we understand how frustrating recurring ear infections can be. Whether it’s allergy-related, environmental, or foxtail exposure, we’ll work with you to get to the root of the problem and keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and active.