Ear Mites in Dogs

Ear mites are microscopic parasites that live in the ear canal. They feed on ear wax and skin oils and can affect dogs of any age but are most common in puppies.

Because they are so small, ear mites are rarely visible to the naked eye and usually require veterinary examination to confirm.

How Do Dogs Get Ear Mites?

Ear mites spread easily between animals through close contact, usually from one dog to another but they can also be spread between cats and dogs.

If one pet in a household has ear mites, others may already be infected even if they are not showing symptoms.

Signs of Ear Mites in Dogs

As ear mites cause irritation and inflammation of the ears, common signs include:

• Frequent head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Rubbing the head or face on furniture or the ground
• Red, inflamed or painful ears
• Increased ear wax
• Dark, dry or crumbly discharge (often black or brown)
• Unpleasant smell from the ears

These signs can also be caused by allergies, bacterial infections or yeast infections, so a veterinary examination is essential to identify the cause.

When to Contact Your Vet

You should contact your vet if:

• Your dog is scratching or shaking their head persistently
• Their ears look red, sore or swollen
• There is discharge or a strong smell from the ears
• Your dog seems painful or distressed

Trying to treat ear problems at home without a diagnosis can make the condition worse and cause significant discomfort.

How Are Ear Mites Diagnosed?

Your vet will examine your dog’s ears carefully and may take a sample of ear debris to be checked under a microscope.

Treatment For Ear Mites

Treatment will depend on your dog’s needs and the severity of the problem.

Spot-on or Tablet Treatments

Many parasite treatments also kill ear mites. They’re usually simple and low stress for you and your pet.

Ear Drops

Ear drops may be prescribed for several weeks. They help kill mites, soothe inflammation and can also treat secondary bacterial or yeast infections.

Ear Cleaning

Medicated ear cleaners may be recommended which helps remove wax and debris.

Your vet or nurse can show you how to clean your dog’s ears safely.

Treating Other Pets

All dogs and cats in the household usually need treatment to prevent reinfection.

Always follow your vet’s instructions and complete the full course of treatment, even if your dog’s ears look better early on.

Treating the Home Environment

Ear mites can survive away from pets for some time, so you will also need to take the following steps:

• Wash bedding, blankets and grooming tools on a hot cycle
• Use a suitable household parasite spray, if advised
• Take extra care if you have cats, as some products are toxic to them

Ongoing Care

After treatment, monitor your dog for any return of symptoms. Clean your dog’s ears only if advised by your vet but please don’t use cotton buds inside your dog’s ears.

If irritation or discharge returns, please contact your vet.

Outlook

With prompt and appropriate treatment most dogs make a full recovery however, delaying treatment can lead to painful ear infections.

Can Ear Mites Affect Humans?

It is extremely rare for humans to be affected as the ear mites that affect dogs are different from those that affect humans.

Preventing Ear Mites

The best prevention is regular parasite control.

• Use routine flea and parasite treatments recommended by your vet
• Check your dog’s ears regularly, especially puppies
• Seek veterinary advice early if you notice irritation