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My dog's ears bother him. Is Zymox good for yeast or prevention?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 1 month old | 53 lbs

Is it okay to use zymox otic enzymatic solution to prevent ear problems (yeast infections), and one version with hydrocortisone if my dogs ears are bothering him? Thank you. LL

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 3rd, 2017

All of the Zymox products that I found are to treat irritation and inflammation, so they wouldn't be very good at prevention or specific treatment of infection. The best preventative would be a good ear cleaner 1-2 times per week or after getting out of water. I like Dechra EpiKlean Ear Cleanser as it is gentle and helps dry out the ear and remove debris. If you think that Wes already has an ear infection, then he would need have it diagnosed by a vet and get medications specific for his type of infection. Once cleared, you can continue with normal cleaning to prevent further ear infections!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Anna M., DVM
Veterinarian
Yes, I actually really like this product for mild ear infections and irritation. It works great for mild yeast infections - but if you are using it and not seeing improvement, then have Wes seen by a vet as he may need a stronger medicated ear treatment. Hope this helps.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angela Hinton, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 28th, 2018
Hello there!
I am sorry to hear Gibbs suffers from chronic ear infections. I know how frustrating that can be for a pet owner.

Zymox would be my over the counter choice for an ear solution for dogs. If you are able to find it, Zymox Advanced would be even better. Zymox has hydrocortisone in it which will help calm down the inflammation the ears. The Zymox advanced has some added ingredients to help breakdown the biofilm bacteria produce which can slow down their growth.
Both products contain the hydrocortisone.
Inflammation is what creates all the pain, itchiness and irritation and that is what the cortisone will help take care of and will help Gibbs feel better. But the infection still needs to be treated.

The Zymox label states that it is a good alternative to actual ear medications such as antibiotics. While I don't agree with that (most dogs still need a treatment ointment or oral meds in combo with it) I think it would be a good short term alternative for you since you are in a bind right now.

I see that you are in the UK and I'm not sure how readily available Zymox is. If you are unable to find this brand I would look for something similar that has hydrocortisone in it. IF you still can't find that then I would just get an over the counter ear cleanser and use that for now. At least getting some of the gunk out will help him.
And then once you are home you can get him to his vet for treatment.

I hope you find this information helpful.
I wish you and Gibbs all the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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