My dog has a painful, smelly ear with colored discharge. What's wrong?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

  Veterinarian

  This looks like a rather involved infections and should ideally be evaluated by a veterinarian, so they can identify the source of the infection and give the most appropriate medication.
  
  One of the best things you can do to help ear infections is flushing the ears regularly. For Harley, I recommend flushing the ear once a day for two weeks, then as necessary. You can buy the ear flush from the pet store and I put a link to a good video below that shows how to flush a dog's ear.
  
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_8f1fll42A
  
  However, this is no substitute for the vet, because there is usually a primary cause of the infection like allergies, or something stuck inside the ear. If the primary cause is not found and treated appropriately, then the infection will reoccur. Also, the infection may have damaged the ear drum, which can cause the infection to go much deeper and cause more problems.
  
  I hope that helps and Harley gets better soon.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on November 7th, 2017

  Poor Jasper! Ear infections are common in dogs, and are usually caused by an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the ear canal. He will need prescription ear drops to treat the infection, so I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam as soon as you can.
  
  In the meantime, you can try cleaning his ears with an over-the-counter ear flush labeled for dogs - you should be able to find this at your local pet store. This will not treat the underlying infection, but it may help to remove some of the brown discharge and make him a bit more comfortable until you are able to see the vet.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on January 10th, 2020

  It could be a bacterial or fungal infection. You sill need to have Taltson seen by your veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis. This is easily done in the clinic by examining a swab of the ear(s). Afterwards, an ear cleaner along with the appropriate medication can be dispensed. Use an e-collar (cone) to prevent rubbing or scratching. Treatment may last 2 weeks after which a recheck is recommended.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful