How to Treat Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs

Chronic ear infections turn a simple head scratch into a daily battle for your dog. The constant shaking, pawing, and whimpering aren’t just annoying—they’re signs of discomfort that demand more than a quick clean. Curing them takes patience, consistency, and a plan tailored to your dog’s needs.

First, visit the vet—no exceptions. Chronic infections often stem from underlying issues: allergies, thyroid problems, or even a misshapen ear canal. A professional exam can spot these, and many regions require a diagnosis before dispensing prescription meds. Over-the-counter drops might ease symptoms temporarily but won’t fix the root cause.

Your vet will likely swab the ear to identify the culprit: bacteria, yeast, or a mix. Treatment depends on this—antibiotics for bacteria, antifungals for yeast. Follow dosage instructions exactly; stopping early when symptoms fade is a common mistake that lets infections rebound stronger.

Cleaning becomes part of your daily routine, but do it right. Use a vet-recommended solution—never water, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide, which irritate delicate ear tissue. Gently squirt it into the ear canal, massage the base for 30 seconds, then let your dog shake it out. Wipe away excess with a cotton ball, not a Q-tip—those can push debris deeper.

Dry ears are happy ears, especially for floppy breeds like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds. After baths or swims, dry their ears thoroughly with a soft cloth. Some owners use a blow dryer on the lowest, coolest setting, keeping it several inches away to avoid burns. Moisture trapped in ear canals is a breeding ground for infection.

Address allergies if they’re to blame. Food sensitivities or environmental triggers (pollen, dust mites) often fuel chronic ear issues. Your vet might suggest an elimination diet or allergy testing, which many insurance plans cover partially. Reducing exposure to allergens can cut down on infections dramatically.

Check for ear mites, tiny parasites that cause intense itching. They’re common in shelter dogs or those who spend time outdoors. Your vet can prescribe medicated drops to kill them, and you’ll need to clean bedding thoroughly—mites survive off hosts for days.

Avoid tight collars or heavy ear accessories, which trap heat and moisture. Opt for lightweight, breathable collars, and remove them during playtime if your dog tends to get their ears dirty. Keeping the area around the ears trimmed (for long-haired breeds) also improves airflow.

Be patient—chronic infections take weeks, sometimes months, to clear. Set reminders on your phone for meds and cleanings; consistency beats occasional intense efforts. Watch for small wins: a day without shaking, a relaxed ear during petting—these mean progress.

If infections persist despite your best efforts, ask about advanced treatments. Some vets recommend ear flushing under sedation to remove deep-seated debris, or in severe cases, minor surgery to improve ear canal drainage. These steps are last resorts but can offer long-term relief for suffering dogs.

Your dog relies on you to ease their discomfort. With the right care, those painful ear infections can become a thing of the past, replaced by head tilts that mean curiosity, not pain. The work feels endless some days, but seeing them shake their head freely, no longer bothered by itch or ache? That’s the reward worth fighting for.