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.
Yeast Infections
In many cases, a yeast infection causes what is described as a sweet or musty smell. There can also be redness and discharge from the ear that's generally brown in color. Yeast infections should be seen by your veterinarian within several days.
If you notice your dog's ears smelling musty or sickeningly sweet, she may have a yeast infection in her ears. This problem may cause pain, itching, swelling, redness, and sometimes oozing discharge along with the smell. It is a common problem in dogs' ears because a dog's ears are a prime location for Candida to grow.
Combine a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and gently flush your dog's ears with the mixture. Another option is to use coconut oil, which has antifungal properties. Apply a few drops to your pup's ear canal, and gently massage it to help it spread.
Ear infections are uncomfortable and itchy for dogs, not only that, they can become painful if the infection is left untreated and becomes more severe. If you think that your dog may have a yeast infection in one or both ears it's time to head to the vet.
The key to preventing yeast ear infections in dogs is keeping the ear canal healthy and dry. Whenever your pooch has been in water bathing or swimming be sure to dry your dog's ears well. Underlying conditions such as allergies or hypothyroidism can cause your dog to experience chronic or recurring infections.
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.
Ear mites and other parasites can cause parasitic infections which will produce a foul smell. Earwax buildup - Periodic cleaning of your pet's ears may keep this cause under control. Allergies - This can include food allergies as well as inhaled irritating allergens. Trauma to the ear.
If their ears smell yeasty or downright stinky, it's likely that a bacterial or yeast infection is brewing.
The perfect environment for yeast to grow is hot, humid weather. Yeast infections are common when moisture and warmth are combined with a lack of airflow caused by the shape of your dog's ears.
A yeast infection usually doesn't cause vaginal odor.
Skin and Paws
Topical ingredients that are effective in treating yeast include chlorhexidine, miconazole, and ketoconazole. In difficult-to-treat or severe cases, oral antifungal medications are used. Oral antifungal medications used in dogs include fluconazole, terbinafine, ketoconazole, and itraconazole.
Your Pup's Ears
Left untreated ear infections in dogs can develop quickly and result in symptoms such as balance and coordination issues, pain and in severe cases facial paralysis.
Discharge and Odor
If you see something abnormal coming out of your dog's ears that comes with a terrible smell, this is a likely sign of an infection.
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.
Signs of an ear infection in dogs
Is shaking her head frequently. Has red, inflamed skin on the underside of her ears. Pulls away from you when you try to pet her ears (she may be pain) Has a stinky, bad smell in her ears (often a musty odor)
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.
Serious yeast infections inside the ear can take up to six weeks to heal. Keep paws clean and dry.
The best treatment to get rid of most yeast infections comes down to medicated creams or a pill. Studies show that these creams and the oral pill, fluconazole, both work more than 90% of the time. Uncomplicated yeast infections usually respond to treatment within a couple of days.
Foods to Avoid for Yeast Overgrowth in Dogs
Avoid starchy vegetables, foods that contain carbohydrates and added sugars that may show on labels as dextrose and fructose.
The probiotics in Greek yogurt also fight yeast infections, which can help dogs with recurring ear or skin infections. Just be sure to avoid flavored or sweetened Greek yogurt, as dogs don't need the added sugar.
You can make ear cleaning solutions at home using apple cider vinegar and lukewarm water. Apple cider vinegar will help kill yeast or bacteria.
Clean each of your dog's ears once or twice a day.
In order to eliminate the fungal infection, you will need to keep your dog's ear really clean.
Foods containing simple sugars, including many fruits. White flour and other glutenous grains. Anything fermented with yeast, such as alcoholic drinks. Some dairy products, including whole milk.