Dog Ear Infections - Otitis Externa
The term Otitis Externa comes from the Latin for inflammation of the ear. It is a common problem in dogs and studies show that up to 20% of all dogs are affected by dog ear infections which underlines the need for regular, weekly cleaning of the dog's ears.

Symptoms of Otitis Externa
Dog Ear Infections are marked by pain and discomfort which is displayed by irritability. The most common signs of a problem with a dog is ear scratching, head shaking and an unpleasant smell. Healthy ears are shiny, free from discharge or wax and pale pink inside.

Dogs susceptible to Otitis Externa
A large number of dogs suffer from ear problems and not one particular breed is particularly susceptible however, spaniels often suffer from acute inflamation often caused by grass seed. Research has also shown that some dogs susceptible to rare hereditary diseases such as Dermatomyositis in Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs and Seborrhoea in Shar Peis and West Highland White Terriers .

Causes - Otitis Externa
There are several possible causes of Dog Ear Infections which include:

• Self inflected problems due to excess scratching

• Excess moisture - especially seen in dogs with floppy ears such as spaniels

• Hereditary diseases

• Allergies

• Foreign bodies such as grass seeds

• Parasites such as ear mites

Treatment of Otitis Externa
The treatment of dog ear infections varies according to the cause and will often include the use of antibiotics. If a dog shows signs of a bad ear infection the Veterinary Surgeon should be consulted as soon as possible. DO NOT attempt to clean an infected ear as it could aggravate the situation