Otitis (Ear Inflammation or Infection) in Dogs

Understanding Otitis in Dogs: What Pet Owners Should Know

If your dog has ever had an ear infection, you’re not alone. Ear problems in dogs are one of the most common reasons for vet visits—and otitis is often to blame. While not as common, cats can also suffer from ear inflammation or infection (otitis).

At Pet Wellness Clinics in Indianapolis, we believe that understanding your dog's health is the first step in protecting it. Here’s what you need to know about otitis, how to recognize the signs, and how our veterinarians can help keep your dog's ears healthy and pain-free. 

What Is Otitis? 

Otitis can affect one or both ears and ranges from mild irritation to more serious, chronic issues. Depending on where the inflammation is located, your veterinarian may diagnose: 

• Otitis externa – inflammation of the outer ear canal (most common) 
• Otitis media – inflammation of the middle ear 
• Otitis interna – inflammation of the inner ear, which can affect balance and hearing 

What Causes Otitis in Dogs? 

Several factors can contribute to otitis in dogs, including: 

• Allergies (food or environmental or both) 
• Trapped moisture in the ears from swimming or bathing 
• Ear mites or other parasites 
• Excessive hair in the ear canal 
• Foreign bodies (like grass seeds) 
• Yeast or bacterial infections 
• Underlying skin conditions 

Dog Breeds Prone to Ear Infections 

Dogs with floppy or hairy ears have limited air circulation, creating a warm, moist environment ideal for infections.   

• Cocker Spaniels  
• Basset Hounds  
• Labrador Retrievers  
• Golden Retrievers  
• Poodles (and Doodles)  
• Shih Tzus  
• Beagles
• Frequent swimmers (Retrievers, Spaniels, etc) 

Signs Your Dog Might Have Otitis 

Watch for these common symptoms: 

• Scratching or pawing at the ears 
• Head shaking or tilting 
• Redness, swelling, or discharge in the ear canal 
• A foul or yeasty odor from the ears 
• Whimpering or avoiding head touches 
• Loss of balance or coordination (in severe cases) 

If your dog shows any of these signs, don’t wait—ear infections can worsen quickly and become painful or chronic if left untreated. Call us at (317) 516-5921 to schedule an appointment. 

Preventing Ear Infections in Your Dog

You can help protect your pet’s ears with a few simple habits: 

• Dry their ears thoroughly after baths or swims 
• Clean ears regularly with a vet-approved ear cleanser 
• Keep hair trimmed around and in the ear canal if needed 
• Watch for early signs of irritation and bring them in promptly 

Treating Dogs with Otitis 

If you suspect your dog has ear inflammation, call us at (317) 516-5921 to schedule an appointment. During your dog's exam, our veterinary team will gently examine the ears and use an otoscope to look into the canal. We may collect samples to identify if bacteria, yeast, or parasites are present under a microscope, which helps guide the most effective treatment. 

Treatment of otitis depends on the cause but may include: 

• Prescription ear drops, ointments, or cleansers 
• In-clinic injectable treatments to help with pain and inflammation 
• Oral medications for inflammation or infection 
• Allergy management if an underlying issue is found 
• Regular cleanings and maintenance to prevent recurrence 

At Pet Wellness Clinics in Indianapolis, our goal is to make sure your pet stays comfortable, healthy, and happy. We’re here for your dog's ears—and everything else, too. Schedule an appointment now >