Is your dog at risk for an ear infection?

Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at UK-based pet insurance company Waggel, explains why ear infections are so frequently overlooked...

Many owners dismiss the early warning signs of ear infections as normal dog behaviour. Head shaking, ear scratching, and even a mild odour can be easy to normalise. What's concerning is that untreated ear infections can lead to chronic pain, hearing loss, and in severe cases, require surgical intervention. The difference between early intervention and delayed treatment can mean months of unnecessary suffering for your pet.

Three facts every dog owner should know about ear infections:

1. Breed matters more than you might think

The RVC study revealed that certain breeds are significantly more predisposed to ear infections. Basset Hounds are 5.6 times more likely to develop ear infections compared to crossbreeds, while Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Cocker Spaniels all showed elevated risk.

Dogs with pendulous ears or hair-filled ear canals are particularly vulnerable due to reduced airflow and moisture retention.

2. The symptoms are often subtle until they're severe

Early signs like occasional head shaking or ear scratching are easily dismissed, but as infections progress, dogs may develop more obvious symptoms including redness, swelling, discharge, odour, and visible discomfort. By this stage, the infection is typically more difficult to treat and may have already caused significant discomfort.

3. Recurrence is common without addressing the underlying causes

Without identifying and managing predisposing factors, ear infections in dogs often recur. Addressing underlying causes, such as allergies, swimming habits, or anatomical features, is essential to prevent chronic ear issues.

Practical tips to prevent and identify ear infections:

• Regularly check your dog's ears—healthy ears should be pale pink, odourless, and relatively clean

• Clean ears gently as recommended by your vet, especially after swimming or bathing

• Never use cotton buds deep in the ear canal; use vet-approved cleaning solutions instead

• For dogs with floppy ears or known susceptibility, establish a regular ear-checking routine

• Address underlying allergies with your vet's guidance, as these frequently contribute to ear issues

• Learn the early warning signs: increased ear touching, head shaking, or redness

• Consider preventative ear cleaning for high-risk breeds, but only with products recommended by your vet

• Seek veterinary attention at the first sign of ear discomfort rather than waiting for obvious symptoms

Ear infections represent one of the most treatable yet persistently common health issues in dogs. Early intervention can mean the difference between a simple course of medication and months of chronic, painful infection. Many owners are shocked to discover how much their dog's behaviour and happiness improve once an ear infection is properly treated - dogs they thought were 'just getting older' suddenly become more playful and energetic once that constant discomfort is relieved.