Canine Bacterial Ear Infection

Dogs that suffer from chronic ear conditions may be producing an excess amount of ear wax. This may lead to the growth of bacteria, which soon leads to infection of the ear. Dogs with repeated bacterial ear infections may need to be cultured in order to determine the type of bacteria that is causing the infection.

  1. Identification

    • A bacterial ear infection is caused by an over-growth of bacteria in the ear. Bacteria in the ear may be resistant to antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. Dogs that suffer from chronic ear infections, may have an underlying condition such as allergies, that exacerbate the ear infection.

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms of a bacterial ear infection in dogs may include shaking the ears, scratching the ears, a discharge from the ear and a foul odor in the dog's ear. According to Marvistavet.com, some complications that may occur from a severe bacterial infection include paralysis of the facial nerve, as well as vestibular symptoms. Vestibular symptoms in dogs may include a head tilt, lack of coordination, loss of balance and rhythmic eye movements also known as nystagmus.

    Types

    • Pseudomonas is a type of bacteria that may cause ear infections in dogs. Pseudomonas can be a serious infection that may become resistant to many antibiotics. Dogs that have recurrent ear infections that require the use of antibiotics can encourage the bacteria to become resistant to treatment. According to peteducation.com, other types of bacteria that can cause ear infections are staph and strep. Bacteria may ascend through the oral cavity and to the ear, causing infection.

    Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian may make the diagnosis of a bacterial ear infection by performing a complete exam on your dog's ear. According to peteducation.com, a bacterial infection often exudes a yellow discharge and has a strong odor. A culture may be taken of the dog's ear in order to determine the type of bacteria that is causing the infection.

    Treatment

    • The treatment for canine bacterial ear infections depends on the type of bacteria affecting the ear and the severity of illness. Veterinarians may use a combination of oral antibiotics and topical medicines to treat this condition. In dogs that suffer from chronic bacterial infections, the veterinarian may clean and flush the ear. In severe cases, the dog may need to be sedated to perform this task.