How To Clean Dog Ears With Yeast Infection

Did you know that yeast infections in a dog’s ear is a common medical issue? Dog breeds with floppy ears are highly susceptible to buildup and bacteria in their ears that cause a variety of infections. Don’t ignore a yeast infection in your dog’s ears. Get the yeast infection taken care of as soon as you can. Here is everything you need to know about how to clean dog ears with yeast infection.

What is an Ear Yeast Infection?
- Symptoms of a Dog Ear Yeast Infection
What is a Natural Remedy for Yeast Infection in Dog’s Ears?

How Do You Treat a Yeast Infection in a Dog’s Ear?
Clean Ears, Happy Dog
FAQs

What is an Ear Yeast Infection?

When yeast grows rapidly in a dog’s ears, it could cause a yeast infection. Dog ear yeast infections are caused by Malassezia pachydermatis, a type of yeast found in dog ears. No, it’s not the same kind of yeast that you would use to bake bread or make beer. It’s completely different. When infected with this strain of yeast, it becomes a condition called “yeast otitis.”

Symptoms of a Dog Ear Yeast Infection

Here are the symptoms to watch out for:

Your dog does not want their ears touched
Shaking head and scratching at ears
A musty or cheesy odor coming from the ears

Swelling and redness inside the ear
Scaly skin in the ear
Excessive debris

Drooped ears
Thickened skin on the ear flaps

What is a Natural Remedy for Yeast Infection in Dog’s Ears?

Although the best way to treat a dog ear with yeast infection is to visit the vet for medications, you can also use some natural remedies. Keep in mind that natural remedies may not cure the issue entirely. That said, they will keep the symptoms under control until you can schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Here are some natural remedies for an ear yeast infection:

Green tea: Boil water and then steep a few bags of green tea. Once the tea has cooled to room temperature, soak a sponge in it then dab the dog’s ears.
Oregano oil: Oregano has antibiotic properties. Mix a drop of oregano oil with aloe vera juice. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture then gently clean your dog’s ears.

Apple cider vinegar: Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part spring water. Clean the visible regions of the ear with a cotton ball or soft cloth that has been soaked in the mixture. This will relieve some of the discomfort.

How Do You Treat a Yeast Infection in a Dog’s Ear?

Yeast infections are easy to treat when you have the correct medications from the vet. You will typically receive medicated ear drops or a topical ointment that is applied to the ears for about 2 weeks. The medications contain antibiotics, antifungal and anti-inflammatory medications.

You will also be told to clean your dog’s ears regularly. Here are the steps:

Assemble your supplies and medication for your dog.
Choose a time when your dog is calm. Give them a few treats to distract them.
Take the veterinarian ear-cleaning solution or medication and fill the ear canal. Do not let the applicator tip touch your dog’s skin to keep it clean.

For 30 seconds, massage the medicine gently at the base of the ear.
Let your dog shake their head. Use a towel to wipe up any mess.
Once the shaking is done, take a cotton ball or soft cloth to wipe out the ear canal. Go no deeper than one knuckle.

If your dog is in pain at any time, stop and call the veterinarian for assistance.

Clean Ears, Happy Dog

Taking care of your dog means sometimes dealing with issues like ear yeast infections. By knowing the symptoms, some natural remedies, and how to clean their ears, you should be able to treat a yeast infection in your dog’s ears easily. Good luck!

FAQs

How can I treat my dog’s ear infection at home?

There are some home care steps you can take to help alleviate mild ear discomfort and support your dog’s healing process. Keep your dog’s ear clean by gently wiping the outer ear with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. Applying a warm, moist compress to the affected ear can help soothe discomfort and reduce inflammation. A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar or water and witch hazel can help maintain dog ear hygiene. Make sure your dog’s ears are thoroughly dried to prevent moisture buildup. Remember that home care can be helpful for mild cases of ear discomfort, but proper diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian are essentia

Does plucking your dogs ears help with yeast infections?

Plucking a dog’s ears is sometimes recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing ear infections, especially in breeds with heavy ear hair or those prone to ear problems. However, it’s important to note that plucking alone may not be a definitive solution for yeast infections or other types of ear infections.