It’s not uncommon for hunting dogs to get an ear infection in fact it’s a result of the size and depth of their ears. Because hunting dogs (gun dogs) spend so much time outdoors and have large, floppy ears, they are actually more prone to getting an ear infection. Infections in the ear are a result of yeast or bacteria which can grow in your dogs’ ear and eventually may wind up in the ear canal.

Symptoms of Otitis
Not only are ear infections painful, in extreme cases they may actually lead to your dog becoming deaf. There are some symptoms that you can be on the lookout for – some are basic behaviors of dogs that have ear infections while others are clinical symptoms. You should be aware if:

Discharge from the ears, usually yellow or green in color
Foul smell to the ear
Excessive scratching or head shaking

These early signs can get worse and becoming a serious infection. Once the infection begins to creep deeper into your dog’s ear, it will get into the inner ear and begin affecting your dog’s ability to keep his balance and to hear:

Disorientation
Disorientation of the dog
Awkward collapses or “drunken” state
Deafness
Strange movements of the eye, also known as “crazy eye”

If you recognize any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. The quicker it is diagnosed, the quicker you’ll be able to begin treatment. Quick treatment will save you money in the long run, as well as discomfort for your dog.

The diagnostic process for dogs ear infections are similar to those that are performed on our children, a scope is used to visually check the ear, a sample is taken with swab and the diagnosis is made. As a side note, please be aware that your dog may exhibit similar symptoms if they have ear mites.

Treating Ostitis
Your dogs’ ear infection may be treated in one of two of ways:

A) For a less serious infection your vet may suggest you treat the dog with hydrogen peroxide which you place directly in the ear;
B) For a more serious infection your dog may require a prescription antibiotic or other appropriate medications.

Regardless of the course of treatment that is recommended for your dogs ear infection, your vet is likely to perform a thorough cleaning of your dogs ears before the treatment begins, then they will give the initial dose of medication to show you how to use it and you’ll finish the course of treatment at home.

When you give the medication, which is usually squirted or poured into the dog’s ear, you will have to hold the dog down or have someone help you. Obviously, the dog won’t like this, but it needs to be done.

Because dogs cannot become immune to ear infections, you should watch carefully for the signs, even if you believe he is cured. Early action requires early detection, and makes the infection easier to handle.