Living with an Allergic Dog by Dr. Ezik:
Why Ear Infections Keep Coming Back In Allergic Dogs and How to Help
If you’re a pet parent of an allergic dog, you know the drill: yet another ear infection, another vet visit, more medications. It’s exhausting and can feel like you’re just going in circles, hoping for a permanent fix. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and many dog owners feel the same frustration. Here’s why ear infections keep coming back and how a few changes can help your dog feel better.
Why Do Ear Infections Keep Coming Back?
Allergies cause inflammation (like swelling and redness) in the skin, including the sensitive skin inside the ears. This leads to:
Weak Skin Defenses: Allergies weaken the skin, making it easier for bacteria and yeast to grow in the ears.
Poor Airflow: Swelling in the ear narrows the canal, trapping moisture and heat inside, which helps bacteria thrive.
Incomplete Treatment: Ear infections often need longer treatment than we think. Stopping too soon can allow infections to come back. Be sure to attend your follow-up appointment to check if treatment should continue or if the infection has fully resolved.
Stronger, Resistant Bacteria: Some bacteria learn to survive the usual treatments, making them tougher to clear up.
Protective Layers: Some bacteria even form a coating that shields them from treatment, so they can linger and return.
How to Help Manage Ear Infections in Allergic Dogs
Treating and preventing chronic ear infections isn’t just about one solution. Here’s a simple plan:
Relieve the Itch with Cytopoint or Apoquel: Cytopoint or Apoquel are medications that can help allergic dogs feel less itchy. Less scratching means less chance of hurting the ear and starting another infection.
Use a Gentle Ear Cleanser Like CeraSoothe: CeraSoothe is specially designed for sensitive, allergy-prone dogs. It’s easy to use twice a week and can help clear out bacteria and yeast without being harsh on the skin. You will always need this, if you don’t remember when you purchased the last bottle, that means you may not be using it frequently enough.
How to Use It:
Lift your dog’s ear and squeeze the solution in, being generous with the amount—just a little bit won’t be enough to do the job effectively.
Gently massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds.
Let your dog shake their head, which naturally removes loosened debris.
Gently wipe the outer ear with a clean cloth.
Avoid Common Mistakes:
Don’t clean too often, as it can dry out the ear.
Avoid pushing anything deep into the ear canal.
Consider a Hypoallergenic Diet: Sometimes, certain ingredients in food can worsen ear issues. A hypoallergenic food trial for 8-12 weeks can help you see if food is part of the problem.
Try Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy: For dogs with environmental allergies (dust, pollen, mold), allergy testing can help identify triggers. Immunotherapy, which involves giving tiny doses of these allergens, can help your dog become less sensitive over time.
Be Patient and Consistent
Managing ear infections in allergic dogs can be a long process. It’s easy to feel frustrated, but with a simple routine and patience, you can reduce the frequency and severity of infections, helping your dog live more comfortably. Remember, you’re not alone, and with the right support, your dog can find lasting relief.