A dog's ear canal forms an "L" shape, extending downward in the outer opening and then angling inward, toward the center of the dog's head. According to the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," moisture can become trapped in the ear canal, creating the optimal environment for an infection to develop. Some dogs suffer from chronic yeast ear infections and after an initial diagnosis you might choose to treat this type of ear infection at home. A veterinarian, however, must treat bacterial infections or advanced yeast infections.
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Determination
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The first step in treating your dog's ear infection is to determine what type it is. Yeast-based ear infections have a strong, rancid, yeasty odor and the ear canal can contain a thick brown, greasy wax. To successfully use homemade remedies, you must catch the infection in its earliest stages. If no redness or swelling is present and your dog has a history of chronic yeast ear infections, you may clear up the problem at home.
Acidophilus
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At the first indication of an infection, introduce plain, unsweetened yogurt into your dog's diet. The acidophilus present in yogurt neutralizes yeast fungus and can sometimes prevent the spread of an ear yeast infection. In addition, acidophilus capsules are available in the vitamin aisle of your grocery store --- just sprinkle one on your dog's food.
Glycerin
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Pure vegetable glycerin will soften waxy buildup in preparation for cleaning the ear canal. Use your finger and apply approximately ¼ teaspoon, spreading it evenly in the dog's ear. Use a cotton ball if you have long fingernails. Allow the glycerin to remain in the dog's ear canal for five minutes before proceeding.
Vinegar
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You can use a mixture of one part apple cider vinegar, mixed with one part warm tap water to clean your dog's ears if you suspect he is developing a yeast infection. Use a cotton ball, saturated with the solution and then wipe the waxy buildup up and away from the inner ear canal. Vinegar helps neutralize yeast fungus. Avoid inserting the cotton ball into the lower portion of the dog's ear canal.
Allergy control
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Some dogs develop chronic ear infections from exposure to allergens. If this is the case, talk to your veterinarian about administering over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Benadryl, at home, to prevent an allergy-related infection. An acceptable dosage might be 25 mg of Benadryl per 50 pounds of dog weight. Consult your veterinarian for the exact dosage for your dog and include plain yogurt in his diet to reduce the risk of diarrhea from antihistamine treatments.
Maintenance
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Use the above home remedies at the first sign of an ear infection or at least once a week for dogs with long earflaps that trap moisture and increase the risk of developing an infection.
Warning
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A severe bacterial ear infection can result in damage to the dog's eardrum if not treated promptly and it may require antibiotics or steroid treatment. Unless you are sure of the type of ear infection, see your veterinarian before proceeding with homemade remedies.
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