How to Verify if a Dog's Eardrum Is Intact

The tympanic membrane, also know as the eardrum, separates the external from the middle and inner ear. If this membrane suffers a tear, break or rupture, the trauma can cause serious health risks to your dog. If you own or have access to an otoscope and have some expertise, you can check your dog's eardrum yourself. Otherwise, visit your veterinarian and have him conduct an examination.

Things You'll Need

  • Otoscope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay your dog down on its side so the ear you wish to examine is facing up.

    • 2

      Align the ear canal by pulling the pinnae (outside of the dog's ear) away from the head (toward you) and back with your non-dominant hand. Maintain your grip of the dog's ear while you examine the eardrum.

    • 3

      Grasp the otoscope in your dominate hand and gently insert it into the dog's ear canal. Use extreme caution when doing this so that you do not injure the ear canal or rupture the eardrum in the process of examining it.

    • 4

      Look down in the ear for the semitransparent ear drum. An intact, healthy eardrum will appear smooth and light gray. You may have to rotate the otoscope to see all the way around the eardrum.

    • 5

      Inspect the eardrum to verify it is there and look for any holes or tears in the membrane.

    • 6

      Give your dog a treat or a pat, and make an appointment with a veterinarian if you see any rips or tears in the membrane or if you cannot find the eardrum at all.