Homeopathic Remedies for Ear Mites in Dogs

Ear mites are invertebrates, usually microscopic in size, that live in animal's ears. While ear mites are more common in cats, dogs are susceptible to them as well. They are highly contagious and spread rapidly with the briefest of contact between animals. If your dog has contracted ear mites, it will constantly scratch its ears or shake its head. If you see your dog expressing intense irritation with its ears, don't hesitate to treat it. Home remedies can help if the infestation is caught early; advanced infestations should be treated by a veterinarian.

  1. Corn, Vegetable or Olive Oil

    • Corn, vegetable and olive oil can be used to smother the ear mites; cutting off their air supply. The oil also soothes the skin that has become irritated with their infestation. Massage a few drops of oil inside the ear using a cotton ball. Repeat the process every day for three days. Give the ears a rest for another three days and then repeat the treatment -- to kill newly hatched mites.

    Almond Oil

    • Like corn, vegetable and olive oil, almond oil can also be used to treat ear mites in dogs. Suction 1/2 oz. of almond oil -- choose one that is infused with vitamin E -- into an ear dropper. Make sure the oil is at room temperature to maximize your dog's comfort. Gently squirt the oil into the ear and use a cotton swab to clean the ear's opening. Apply the oil in the same fashion every other day for six days. Give the ears a rest for three days and then repeat treatment to kill newly hatched mites. The oil will smoother the ear mites, and the Vitamin E will smooth and soothe the irritated canal skin.

    White Vinegar and Water

    • The acidity in vinegar will kill ear mites in dogs. However, if you suspect your dog has seriously irritated ears, avoid this remedy, because it will sting. Combine one part vinegar and two parts water together in a cup or bowl and stir. Use a dropper to suction out 1/2 oz. of the liquid, and gently squirt the liquid into the dog's ear. Massage the solution into the ear and use a cotton ball to wipe the opening. Continue every other day for several days.

    Yellow Dock Root Extract

    • Yellow dock is a wild herb used in alternative medicine for skin problems; such as eczema and psoriasis. Use yellow dock root extract, and dilute nine drops in 1 tbsp. of water. Fill a dropper with the diluted mixture and gently pour it into the dog's ear. Continue this treatment every other day for several days, to smother the mites and kill new hatchlings.