If your dog has ear problems, it probably has some type of infection. Many dogs are prone to chronic ear infections. When a dog has ear problems, it may scratch its ear and try to avoid having the area touched. There are many remedies you can try for treating a dog's ear infection. However, if the condition worsens or doesn't improve, you should contact your veterinarian.
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Cod Liver or Vitamin E Oil
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If your dog has a middle- or inner-ear infection, cod liver will help the condition and relieve some of the discomfort. Simply apply a few drops to the infected ear or ears. After you apply the drops, gently massage the ears. If you cannot find cod oil, use vitamin E oil in the same manner.
Apple Cider Vinegar
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Apply apple cider vinegar to your dog's ears to keep an infection from getting worse. Add 2 tbsp. of vinegar to a cup of water. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and gently wipe the inside of the ear. You can also give this solution to your dog twice a week to drink. The vinegar is an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal that will boost the dog's immune system. Often, if your dog has an ear infection, a common symptom will be itchy ears. This solution will give your dog some relief from the discomfort.
Keep the Ears Dry
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One way to help your dog's pesky ear problems is to simply keep the ears dry. This can be tricky if you have a dog with long ears. Try switching to a dog bowl that has a tall stand. This will keep the ears from soaking in the water dish. Also, when you bathe your dog, put cotton balls in its ears to keep them dry, or be sure to take extra time drying out the ears. Keeping the ears clean will help keep bacteria from infecting them.
Calendula
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Calendula is an anti-fungal that has healing properties. Mix 1 tsp. of calendula to 1/2 tsp. sea salt to 1 cup of filtered water. Use the solution to flush out the ears by applying it with a bulb syringe, which can be found at most drug stores. Your dog may try to squirm away, so you may want to have someone holding it while you do this.
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