How do you get rid of an infection in a dog?

Spotting the first signs of trouble is key—maybe your pup’s paw is swollen, they’re scratching a red patch raw, or there’s a foul smell from their ears. These could all point to an infection, and ignoring them won’t make it go away. In many places across Europe and North America, letting a treatable condition fester might even run afoul of animal welfare laws, which require owners to provide timely veterinary care. Don’t wait for a minor issue to turn into a major one; trust your gut if something feels off.​

Start by scheduling a visit to the vet. They’ll identify whether it’s bacterial, fungal, or viral—each needs a different approach. For example, a bacterial skin infection might need antibiotics, while a yeast ear infection could respond to antifungal drops. Never guess or use leftover meds from past issues; what worked before might not match the current infection, and incorrect treatment can make things worse.​

Follow the vet’s instructions exactly, even if your dog starts looking better. Skipping doses or stopping early because symptoms improve is a common mistake, but it can let the infection linger or come back stronger. If the medication upsets your dog—like causing an upset stomach—or if symptoms get worse instead of better, call the vet right away. They might adjust the dosage, switch to a different medication, or check if there’s another issue at play.​

At home, keep the infected area clean as directed. For skin infections, that might mean gentle baths with a medicated shampoo prescribed by the vet. For ear infections, you might need to wipe away debris with a special solution before applying drops. Be careful not to over-clean, though—this can irritate the area further. Also, prevent your dog from licking or chewing the infected spot, which can spread bacteria or delay healing. An Elizabethan collar (the “cone of shame”) might be necessary, even if your pup hates it temporarily.​

Be aware of local regulations that tie into pet health. In some regions, failing to treat a contagious infection—like kennel cough or a skin condition that spreads to other animals—could result in fines, especially if it affects other pets in public spaces. Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date also helps prevent certain infections in the first place, which is often a legal requirement for licensing in many cities.​

With prompt care, most infections clear up without complications. Watch for signs of recovery, like reduced swelling, less scratching, or a return to normal energy levels. If these don’t show up within the expected timeframe, check in with your vet again. Remember, your dog can’t tell you when they’re in pain, so staying vigilant and acting quickly is the best way to get them back to their happy, healthy selves.