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Breeds Prone to Ear Infections and Signs to Watch For

Though ear infections are one of the most common pet ailments, there are certain breeds that tend to be more prone to them. Remember to always keep water out of your pet’s ears and watch for common signs that could indicate that there is an infection brewing.

Dog Breeds with floppy ears and long ears (aka: pendulous ears)

  • Basset Hound
  • Bloodhound
  • Afghan Hound
  • Coon Hound
  • Springer Spaniel
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Cavalier King Charles (high rate of Glue Ear)
  • Daschund
  • Shih Tzu
  • Bull Mastiff
  • Beagles
  • Newfoundland
  • Saint Bernard
  • Great Dane
  • Weimaraners
  • Doberman (if ears not cropped)

Breeds of Dogs that are Swimmers

  • Labradors
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Portuguese Water Dog
  • Poodles

Breeds of Dogs with hairy inner ear flaps

  • Miniature Poodles
  • Schnauzers

Persian Cats are also highly prone to ear infections

Below is a list of very common signs that your pet could have an ear Infection.

  • Rubbing of the ear and surrounding area on the floor or furniture
  • Head shaking or head tilt
  • Redness/Swelling
  • Earwax Buildup could lead to infection
  • Scratching of the ear or area around the ear
  • Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
  • Odor in the ear
  • Crusts or scabs on inside of the outer ear
  • Hair loss around the ear
  • Loss of balance
  • Unusual eye movements
  • Lesions
  • Walking in circles
  • Hearing loss
  • Bleeding of the ear canal
  • Crying/Whimpering while scratching/rubbing ears

Common Causes of Ear Disease:

  • Allergies (e.g. Food, grass, environmental)
  • Parasites
  • Ear mites
  • Bacteria and yeast Infection
  • Foreign bodies, e.g., plant awns (aka foxtails, grass seeds
  • Trauma
  • Hormonal abnormalities, e.g., hypothyroidism
  • Excess moisture and ear anatomy
  • Hereditary or immune conditions, and tumors

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