Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs are brought to the veterinarian, and with good reason- they’re uncomfortable, easy to miss in the early stages, and often linked to other health conditions. At Mid-Valley Veterinary in Orland, CA, we see a high number of ear infection cases throughout the year, particularly during foxtail season when these barbed grass awns frequently become lodged deep in the ear canal.

Whether your dog is showing subtle signs of irritation or dealing with chronic infections, timely care makes a significant difference.

What Are Ear Infections?

Medically known as otitis externa, an ear infection involves inflammation of the external ear canal. Dogs are more commonly affected than cats due to the shape of their ear canals and breed-specific anatomy. Causes may include moisture, allergies, parasites, underlying conditions, or debris buildup- like foxtails, which are a serious concern in California and can lead to infection, abscesses, or deeper tissue damage.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Ear infections rarely resolve on their own. The ear canal is highly sensitive, and inflammation can quickly escalate into pain, infection, or even long-term damage if left untreated. Potential complications include:

  • Chronic inflammation or scarring
  • Thickened ear canals
  • Inner or middle ear disease
  • Ear hematomas– painful blood-filled swellings of the ear flap caused by trauma from constant head shaking.
  • Facial nerve paralysis
  • In severe cases, surgical removal of the ear canal (TECA)

You can learn more about Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA) when infections become unmanageable with medical therapy alone.

Recognizing Common Symptoms

Watch for these signs if you suspect an ear infection:

  • Frequent head shaking or head tilting
  • Scratching or pawing at one or both ears
  • Redness, heat, or swelling in the ear flap or canal
  • Discharge with odor (may be yellow, brown, or black)
  • Pain when touched around the ears
  • Loss of balance or coordination (in more advanced cases)

These signs often worsen without treatment. In some dogs, the only sign may be subtle behavioral changes or increased irritability.

Foxtails: A Common but Serious Risk in California

Foxtails are one of the most common- and dangerous- culprits behind ear infections in dogs, especially here in California. These barbed grass awns are designed to burrow, and when they enter the ear canal, they can travel deep into the tissue, causing intense pain, inflammation, and infection.

Why Foxtails Are a Problem

Foxtails can’t be shaken out or dislodged once they’ve entered the ear. Their arrow-like shape causes them to move only in one direction: deeper. Once embedded, they often go unnoticed until they cause significant discomfort, infection, or even damage to the eardrum. In some cases, surgical removal is required.

Signs a Foxtail May Be in the Ear

  • Sudden, intense head shaking
  • Pawing at one ear
  • Yelping or snapping when touched near the ear
  • Tilted head or loss of balance
  • Visible swelling or discharge from the ear

If your dog shows these signs- especially after time spent in dry fields, trails, or grassy areas- it’s important to have their ears examined immediately.

If you suspect a foxtail is embedded in your dog’s ear, contact us immediately– early removal can prevent pain and avoid more invasive treatments.  Learn more about foxtails and their risks to pets.

What to Expect at the Vet

At Mid-Valley Veterinary, we begin with a full ear exam, often including:

  • Medical history review
  • Otoscopic exam of the canal and eardrum
  • Cytology to examine discharge under a microscope
  • Culture and sensitivity testing for resistant infections
  • Imaging (when indicated) for chronic or deep infections

Each case is different, and we tailor the diagnostic process to your pet’s condition and response to prior treatments. Learn more about Otitis Externa and its treatment in clinical practice.

Treatment Options

Once we determine the type and severity of the infection, we may recommend:

  • Dechra professional ear cleaner to remove debris and allow medications to reach the affected areas. We prefer Dechra products for routine cleaning as well as medicated cleaners. Ask us which is best for your pet!
  • Topical treatments (antibiotic, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory) depending on test results. Learn more about how to administer treatments: medicating the ears of a dog.
  • Oral medications for systemic or inner ear involvement
  • Allergy control, including food trials or environmental allergy testing

If allergies are a suspected trigger, we often start by addressing environmental allergens. This guide on dog allergies is a helpful overview, and for food-related sensitivities, we may recommend a veterinary-supervised diet trial, as outlined in this article on identifying food allergies.

Why Some Infections Keep Coming Back

Recurrent ear infections are often linked to:

  • Chronic allergies (food or environmental)
  • Foxtail exposure (especially in rural or grassy areas)
  • Breeds with narrow or floppy ear canals
  • Poor response to or early discontinuation of medication
  • Improper cleaning methods or overcleaning

Managing these cases often means going beyond medication to identify and address the root cause.

Prevention at Home

Ear cleaning and care routines can significantly lower the risk of recurrence. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Clean ears regularly with veterinarian-recommended solutions like Dechra (never alcohol or hydrogen peroxide)
  • Follow proper technique: Cornell’s guide to cleaning your dog’s ears offers step-by-step instructions
  • Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
  • Check for foxtails, especially after hikes or time in grassy areas

A person applies ear drops to a calm golden retriever’s ear indoors. The dog looks relaxed and cooperative during the treatment.

Nutritional Support & Allergy Management

Allergies and skin conditions are closely tied to ear health. Supporting the skin from the inside out can reduce inflammation and improve outcomes. Consider:

  • Hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets for suspected food sensitivities
  • Omega-3 fatty acids to support skin barrier function
  • Probiotics for gut and immune health

FAQs

How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
 It depends on your dog’s breed, activity level, and history of infections. We’ll help you develop a routine that avoids both under- and over-cleaning. Some pets need it daily- others yearly.

Are ear infections contagious?
 Most bacterial and yeast infections are not, but mites can spread between animals. We’ll determine the cause and guide you accordingly.

What if my dog’s ears look better but they’re still scratching?
 Improvement in symptoms doesn’t always mean the infection is fully resolved. Follow-up is essential to prevent recurrence.

Support You Can Count On

At Mid-Valley Veterinary, we take ear infections seriously because we know how quickly they can progress- and how uncomfortable they can be. Whether you’re managing a one-time foxtail  issue or navigating a long-term condition, we’re here to help you find solutions that work.