When the climate that your dog lives in becomes warm and humid or if exposed to the right conditions, the yeast on your dog's skin and in their ears can suddenly become a concern. Our Grass Valley vets discuss yeast infections in dogs' ears and how you can help prevent this uncomfortable condition.
Yeast Infections in Your Dog's Ears
Your dog's ears and skin will have yeast naturally growing on them which is normal and contributes to their overall health. When the correct balance of yeast exists your pet's skin and ears stay healthy. However, inflammation of the ear can cause yeast levels to accelerate and grow leading to a brown, greasy discharge within the ear canal and around the inside flap of your pup's ear. This discharge can be both itchy and smelly for your beloved pup.
Our Grass Valley vets see yeast infections in dogs' ears far more often in the summer months when it is hot and humid than at any other time of year. Hot humid weather provides the perfect environment for yeast to grow. When that moisture and warmth are combined with a lack of airflow caused by the shape of your dog's ears, yeast infections can often result.
What Are The Causes of a Yeast Infection in Your Dog's Ears?
There is a wide variety of potential causes of yeast infections affecting dogs' ears. Some of these could be:
- Trapped moisture - especially in dogs with long floppy ears
- Antibiotics
- Immunodeficiency
- Too much bathing
- Yeast allergy
- Frequent swimming
- Exercise in humid environments
- Feeding your dog sugary snacks
- Not cleaning your dog's ears often enough
What Are The Symptoms of a Yeast Infection in Your Dog's Ears?
Some of the potential symptoms that your pup could experience with yeast infections in the ear are:
- Red or brown waxy discharge in the ear
- Itching, scratching & pawing at the ear
- A cheesy or musty smell coming from the ear
- Red or irritated ear
How Can Yeast Infections in Your Dog's Ears Be Treated?
Ear infections are uncomfortable and itchy for dogs, not only that, they can become painful if the infection is left untreated and becomes more severe.
If you think that your dog may have a yeast infection in one or both ears it's time to head to the vet for an examination. Your veterinarian can determine the cause of your pup's ear infection and recommend the best treatment. During your dog's appointment, your vet will likely give your dog's ears a good cleaning to get treatment started off right.
The best treatment for your dog's yeast ear infection will depend upon the underlying cause and may include:
- Regularly cleaning your pet's ears at home with a medicated cleanser
- Topical medications
- Oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medications
Preventing Ear Yeast Infections From Occurring in Your Dog
One of the main ways that you can help to prevent ear yeast infections from happening to your dog is to ensure that their ears stay clean and dry at all times.
Whenever your pooch has been in water bathing or swimming be sure to dry your dog's ears well.
Underlying conditions such as allergies or hypothyroidism can cause your dog to experience chronic or recurring infections. Treatment for the underlying cause of your pup's ear infections is essential.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.