Dog Ear Infection Cures

Ear infections in dogs can either be caused by mites or a bacterial, viral or yeast infection. Some dogs are also prone to chronic ear infections that are caused by food allergies, environmental factors or breed vulnerability. Dogs that swim a lot are more inclined toward ear infections. Watch for redness, excessive ear scratching or head shaking. Most ear infections will require a prescription from your vet to cure, but some home remedies can help provide temporary relief.

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

    • Apple cider vinegar mixed with an equal part of water makes a good ear wash to clean an infected ear. It can keep the infection from worsening while you wait for a vet appointment. If your dog will drink it, give it a cup of water with 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar to boost its immune system. As a preventative, mix 2 cups of water, 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar and 1 tbsp. of rubbing alcohol. Rub this in your dog's ears before it goes for a swim. The mixture keeps away wax buildup and wards off mites. It can also inhibit the overgrowth of yeast.

    Warm Compresses

    • If your dog is in pain with its ear infection, try a warm compress. Wet a washcloth with warm, not hot, water and hold it against the dog's ear. If you can see inflammation or pinpoint the area of swelling, place the compress against that spot. Stop using this method if your dog appears uncomfortable. Otherwise, hold it against the ear until the cloth cools. You can use this on an as-needed basis.

    Macerated Garlic

    • Garlic is dangerous for your dog, so make sure it doesn't ingest this mixture. This is a remedy you have to prepare in advance to have on hand. Add 2 cloves of garlic to olive oil and let it blend for two weeks. Then strain out the garlic and keep the oil for when you need it. Two or three drops in the infected ear can help with inflammation and preventing a worsening of the infection. Use this sparingly, and only for mild cases. You can also add a drop or two of tea tree oil to the mixture right before putting in the dog's ears to further soothe itching and inflammation.