Introduction
Ear infections in dogs most commonly develop as a result of parasites, yeast and/or bacteria infections, and skin allergies. If the original cause of the ear infection is not treated in a timely manner, secondary bacterial and skin infections can occur.
Causes of Ear Infections in Dogs
Mites & Fleas
Dogs can develop ear infections from scabies, sticktight fleas, and ear mites. Scabies generally cause ear infections on the outside of the ear. These small mites burrow deep in the dog’s skin and cause tissue damage and intense itching which can result in ear infections. Sticktight fleas are often mistaken for small ticks. These fleas tend to live around the edges of a dog’s ears causing severe tissue damage and infection on the tender skin of the ears. Ear mites are one of the most notorious causes of ear infections in dogs. These small mites cause intense itching and extra discharge in the ear, and as a result ear infections often develop when a dog has ear mites.
Bacteria
Yeast and bacterial ear infections often occur in dogs that are living in warm, humid, environments. Dogs that have floppy ears are especially prone to yeast and bacteria infections in their ears, as floppy ears trap and hold moisture in the ears. These types of infections often occur together as out of control yeast populations in the ear cause intense itching and skin infections which leads to bacterial infections.
Allergies
When dogs develop skin allergies, they are also prone to ear infections. Skin allergies cause intense itching on the skin and in the ears. Continual itching can tear the tissues of the ear which may cause secondary infections to occur. Dogs with skin allergies seem to be more prone to developing yeast and bacteria infections on their skin and ears as well.