Cures for Ear Fungus in Dogs

If untreated, ear fungus can make your canine's life miserable. You may notice such a dog showing a lack of energy, whining and scratching, or rubbing its ears. If your veterinarian has determined that your dog's ear issues are fungal-related, you may be able to treat the problem yourself--without expensive antibiotics or steroids.

  1. Prevent Ear Fungus with Zinc and Copper

    • Mineral supplements of zinc and copper can help prevent canine ear infections.

      Ear fungus in dogs is caused by a reaction to the onset of Malassezia pachydermatis. This fungus spreads on the skin surfaces of dogs. According to Doctors Foster and Smith, Malassezia infections are most often caused by hereditary or infectious diseases, which challenge the immune system of a canine's skin.

      The humidity and darkness of a dog's ear canal makes it an ideal host for the Malassezia fungus. Humid climate conditions can aggravate the spread of the fungus.

      According to Wellsphere's pet expert Heru M., dogs can be given supplements of zinc and copper to lessen the likelihood of their contacting the Malassezia fungus. Zinc helps lessen the separation of fat and protein in your dog's system. It also helps monitor your dog's body temperature and swelling--both of which can encourage fungal build-ups.

      Heru M. considers copper "perhaps nature's finest anti-fungal agent," but notes that zinc can reduce the presence of copper in your dog's system. Therefore, it's important to give your dog supplements of both minerals.

    Adjust Your Dog's pH Levels With Vinegar

    • Add white vinegar to your dog's food or water to help her pH levels.

      Imbalance in a dog's pH levels can also cause of ear fungus. Dogs with too much alkaline buildup (lack of acidity) are more prone to fungal infections. A simple pH test of your dog's urine can determine whether lack of acidity is the cause of ear fungus.

      Chris Schaefer, owner of Creature Comfort Pet Emporium, notes that a pH level of 6.2 to 6.5 is "an indicator of optimum acidity." Dogs with a pH reading above 7.0 may suffer from too little acidity.

      Carole Jean Tillman, an organic veterinarian, suggests a simple solution of vinegar and water applied to the dog's inner ear, and a gentle massage of the ear after application. She suggests daily or weekly applications of water-diluted vinegar to help break down fungal buildup and promote acidity in your dog's inner ears.

      Kel Robin of Wood Haven Farms also suggests adding 1 tbsp. of white vinegar to your dog's daily food or water.

    Fungus-Fighting Foodstuffs

    • Yogurt can help your dog prevent ear fungus problems.

      Yogurt is another powerful agent in quelling fungal attacks. As Dr. Tillman notes, the active Acidophilus agent in yogurt "helps promote a healthy balance of flora in the stomach" of your dog. This enables his system to ward off the overproduction of yeast in his body.

      Vitamin C, a recognized antioxidant, is also effective in helping control the growth of yeast in your dog's system.

      Consult with your veterinarian before giving these or any other dietary supplements to your dog.

      In addition, maintaining a healthy diet for your dog, combined with frequent physical exercise and regular grooming, can help repel yeast infections and keep your dog's ears fungus-free.