Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and apply it to your dog's ears using a cotton ball. Another natural remedy is tea tree oil — but be warned, it is potent and should be diluted before use. Simply mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area.
In the meantime, there are some home remedies you can try to ease your pet's discomfort, such as a warm compress, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide ear flush, and the use of natural anti-inflammatory agents like coconut oil or aloe vera gel.
A dog ear yeast infection usually occurs when there's an excess of moisture in their ear. It typically begins in the outer ear canal (or the otitis externa) but can progress to involve the middle ear canal (otitis media) and inner ear (otitis interna) if left untreated.
Anti-fungal ear drops are the most common treatment for dog ear yeast infections. Your vet may also prescribe oral anti-fungal tablets and pain relief medication if your dog's ear is very painful. For severe infections, an ear flush under general anesthesia may be necessary.
Some effective solutions include coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and probiotics. These remedies can help reduce inflammation, kill off the yeast, and soothe your pet's discomfort. Before you go rushing to the vet, give these holistic options a try first. You might be surprised at how effective they can be!
You can clean your infected dog"s ears yourself, but be sure to avoid using cotton buds as these can push debris further into the ear canal, causing more severe problems. It is best to use a saline solution to clean the ears. You can make this by boiling water, letting it cool, and adding salt.
Ear infections need the vet
Ear infections have many different causes. We're here for the love, health, and happiness of your pet, which means knowing first what's causing the problem, and then prescribing the most effective treatment for your pet. Home remedies for ear infections often just don't work.
Dog ear infections will not go away on their own, and trying to treat them at home with natural remedies likely won't work—and may even worsen the infection. “If the ear issue has progressed to an actual infection, I do not recommend any at-home or over-the-counter remedies,” Dr.
Using an ear-cleaning solution containing ketoconazole can help fight the infection. Apply the solution to the affected ear, massage the base of the ear, and use a clean cotton ball to wipe away the excess solution and debris.
Dark brown or black—This type of earwax is commonly associated with yeast and/or bacterial ear infections. It's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if earwax is this color. Brown—Light brown earwax is normal and expected. If the wax is accompanied by odor or inflammation, it can be a sign of infection.
Apple cider vinegar helps by acting as a cleanser and an anti-fungal and antibacterial agent. Dabbing this into your dog's ears sparingly can help to clean out the inside of their ears and treat the infection.
Never put olive oil, vinegar, shampoo, or any other substance in a dog's ear. Also, avoid poking around with cotton buds in the ear, you will only work any wax and debris further in and potentially damage the eardrum.
Apple cider vinegar can clean a dog's ears and rebalance the skin pH, but it will also dry out ears to combat yeast and bacterial infections. When using apple cider vinegar around your dog's ears, remember to never use it on raw or open sores since it is an acid and will burn and cause irritation.
Apple cider vinegar is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent that helps to prevent ear infections. Meanwhile, rubbing alcohol helps to dry out the ear canal and prevent the growth of bacteria. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can help to soothe irritated ears.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has several health benefits for dogs, and one of them is that it is an effective home remedy for dog ear infections. This nature's bounty has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. You can use it to treat ear infections caused by yeast or bacteria.
No, tea tree oil is not safe for dogs. This fact may surprise you … because it's often in products made for dogs. You'll find products like shampoos, insect repellents, or hot spot, ringworm or ear infection treatments, and more.
Various remedies that can be applied to improve your dog's ear health and get rid of infections are: Coconut Oil: It acts as a great anti-bacterial and anti-fungal component that can be administered to the pooches in their infected ears.
Many dog owners add coconut oil to their food to keep their pup's coat shiny, but did you know you can also use it to clean your dog's ear infection? Melt the coconut oil in a saucepan (make sure it's not too hot!) and add 2-3 drops into your dog's ear. This can also be used to clean your dog's ears on a cotton ball.
They may use a medicated ear cleaner or apply a topical medication. In more severe cases, the vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or oral antibiotics for your pet. Your vet will likely prescribe a topical medication to your dog.
If your dog has a yeast ear infection you may notice one or more of the following symptoms: Red or brown waxy discharge in the ear. Itching, scratching & pawing at the ear. A cheesy or musty smell coming from the ear.
To clean the ears, tilt your dog's head downward with one hand and squirt a gentle cleanser recommended by your veterinarian into the ear, filling the canal. Holding the ear closed, give it a nice massage, really squishing the cleanser around in there. That softens any gunk inside.
Can I get antibiotic ear drops over the counter? No, antibiotic ear drops aren't available over the counter. These medications require a prescription from a healthcare provider. You can purchase some antifungal ear drops over the counter.
When some dogs eat ingredients such as chicken, wheat, corn or other individual items, ingestion will trigger an allergic reaction that can alter the natural flora and allow an unnatural growth of yeast. If your pet suffers from yeasty ears, attempt altering their diet to eliminate common triggers.
Skin Creams
Many antifungals (e.g. Canesten) can be used in pets. Bad Stuff: Do not use creams on broken skin, and always be aware of how much is being swallowed by pets. You could easily reach a toxic dose by reapplying creams that are licked off.