What are the causes of dog ear smell?

There are two main reasons for the smell of a dog's ears, which are usually caused by an increase in ear secretions due to ear mite or Malassezia infections. The treatment principles mainly involve antibacterial and insecticidal actions, cleaning the ear canal, and preventing secondary infections. The affected dog's external ear exudates should be cleaned under anesthesia or restraint, and the ear canal should be kept dry before applying medication. During treatment, the dog should wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent scratching the ear, which can lead to wound infections or ear hematomas.

1. Ear mites causing dog ear smell

Dog ear mites are a parasitic disease caused by external ear inflammation due to the ear canal. The main symptoms include hair loss, inflammation, unpleasant odor in the ear, reddish-brown crusts and earwax visible in the ear canal, and the dog may show signs of scratching and shaking its head. Secondary bacterial infections can lead to diseases such as ear infections, inner ear infections, and meningitis.

Early treatment of dog ear mites can use therapeutic ear drops. First, thoroughly clean the ear canal with pet-specific ear cleaner, then drop the therapeutic ear drops into the ear, massage the outer ear to distribute the medication evenly inside, and repeat the process 2 to 3 times a day. Ear mites are a stubborn disease that requires continuous medication for multiple days, and it is recommended to persist in using the medication for more than 20 days until recovery.

2. Malassezia infection causing dog ear smell

Dog ear Malassezia infection is a fungal infection. Malassezia infection causes white crusts in the dog's ears, accompanied by scales, which can be easily detached upon light touch. Severe infections can cause significant skin thickening and an oily sensation. Weak immunity in dogs or damp weather can cause Malassezia proliferation.

Dogs with Malassezia ear infections usually require first cleaning the ear canal with ear cleaner, and then treating with medications containing antifungal ingredients.

How to deal with dog ear smell

It is essential to handle dog ear pus and smell promptly to prevent further exacerbation of the condition and affect the dog's hearing. Daily cleaning of the ear canal can be done, starting by trimming the ear hair around the affected area, then using clean cotton balls wrapped around hemostatic forceps or cotton swabs to absorb the pus in the ear. Replace the cotton swabs to remove dirt from the ear flaps, and then pour ear drops directly into the dog's ear. After massaging the base of the ear, allow the dog to shake its head, which will help remove the dissolved materials. Finally, wipe the remaining earwax clean.