Throughout my career, one of the most common reasons dog owners give for bringing their dog in for care is ear problems. This is true even when they don't realize that the problem is inside their dog's ears. Here are some tips for noticing the signs of ear infections, how to treat them, and how to prevent them.

Take a good look at both ears. Gently, but thoroughly lift each ear flaps and point them to the ceiling. Both ears should be similar in appearance and smell. A dog's ears should look and smell clean, free from excessive discharge, and not bright red. They should never smell foul or “yeasty.”

There are a variety of causes of ear problems – including food allergies. Your veterinarian can help you identify the root problem. Possible causes of ear problems include:BacteriaFungusParasites such as ear mitesForeign materialCysts or massesHair build-upMoisture from swimming or bathsEnvironmental allergiesFood allergies/sensitivitiesIrritation due to excessive cleaning of the earsSymptoms of Ear ProblemsEar problems can have a variety of symptoms including:Painful when their ears are touchedPawing or scratching the earsShaking or tilting the headRedness or inflammation on any part of the earFoul, funky smell to the ear

A dog's ear canal can be divided into 3 general sections: the outer canal, the middle and the inner ear canal. The two types of ear infections are:Outer ear infection (otitis externa). A waxy, yellow, or reddish-brown, or dark black-brown ear discharge can be a sign your dog has some sort of problem or infection, A problem like this requires prompt attention from your veterinarian because there can be many different causes of the discharge or inflammation. A prompt and accurate diagnosis will help decide the appropriate medication needed to effectively treat the underlying cause of the problem, so it doesn't get worse.Inner ear infection (otitis interna) or middle ear infection. An untreated external ear infection can easily lead to a very painful middle or inner ear infection, both of which mirror otitis externa symptoms as well as a reluctance to open the mouth or problems with balance or wobbliness. Some dogs may walk in circles or become nauseous.

Treating and cleaning ears are not the same thing. An owner can clean a normal healthy ear but only a veterinarian should attempt to diagnose or treat any ear that is unhealthy. Any ear that is inflamed, weepy or is painful must be seen by a veterinarian to diagnose the underlying issue properly and then to start appropriate treatment. Treating an external ear infection may require topical medications such as antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory medications, or a combination of topical and systemic oral medications. Chronic issues sometimes require surgery.Treatment for middle or inner ear infections is more serious and extensive and should only be diagnosed and treated by a licensed veterinarian or surgeon as a dog's ear drum and sense of hearing may be in jeopardy. Treatment may require antibiotics, flushing the ear by your vet, or surgery if the condition is serious

An owner can clean a healthy ear on their dog when instructed properly and with the right tools. A dog's ear canal goes down and then in. I always tell my clients that you can clean whatever you can visibly see: the inside of the ear leather (the pinna) and the downward visible part of the ear canal. You shouldn't go digging deeply inwardly to excavate as you may either push material further down the canal or possible damage the sensitive ear drum. Remember, only clean what you can see.To clean a dog's ear, I recommend a cotton ball saturated with a vet-recommended ear cleaner. Wipe out the inside of the ear, never going too deep. Gently squeeze the ball and gently massage the base of the ears.