How can I help my dog with irritated ears?

If your dog scratches their ears or shakes their head regularly, it could be a sign of an ear or skin problem. Common causes include skin allergies, ear infections and ear mites. Contact your vet as soon as possible if you notice your dog head shaking/scratching their ears – the sooner the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat. If you’ve noticed your dog scratching their ears or shaking their head more regularly than usual, contact your vet as soon as possible. The sooner the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat. Let your vet know if you have noticed any other symptoms such as itchy skin or loss of balance.

To help your dog with irritated ears, you can start by cleaning your dog’s ears, which can make it easier for you to examine your dog’s ear canal, remove microbes and other small foreign objects that may cause dog ear infections, and clean and expose the ear canal for possible topical medication applications. Cleaning your dog’s ears can be done by gently wiping the ear with an absorbent gauze, avoiding cotton swabs, which can push debris deeper into your dog’s ear. It is also important to clean the external portions of your dog’s ears. After a swim or a bath, take care to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears, as ear infections are often caused by excess moisture. If your dog experiences chronic infections, talk to your vet about underlying causes such as allergies. Once your vet has determined the severity and type of ear infection your dog is experiencing, they will clean your dog’s ear thoroughly to remove debris, discharge, and ear wax, and may use a medicated ear cleaner or apply a topical medication. Your vet will likely prescribe a topical medication to your dog, and it is important for you to carefully follow your veterinarian’s exact directives and instructions. You may make the application process easier by keeping your dog relaxed with affection and treats, relying on a partner's help to hold and comfort your pet while you apply medication to the ear, and gently massaging the medication into the affected area. Always finish the full course of the medication, even if your pet seems to be feeling better.