Telling the difference between dog ear mites and yeast infections can be tricky as symptoms overlap (itching, head shaking, odor, redness), but ear mites often cause a dark, waxy, "coffee ground"-like discharge, while yeast produces a brown, greasy, sometimes pungent-smelling discharge, with yeast infections often involving more significant redness and thickening of the skin; however, mites can lead to secondary yeast infections, so a vet visit for a microscope exam is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Ears—Dog ear yeast infections—also referred to as yeast otitis—cause a thick, brown discharge and strong odor in the ear canal. Affected dogs repeatedly scratch their ears to try to relieve the discomfort. They may also shake their heads and develop a head tilt. Ear infections are commonly related to food allergies.
An ear mite infection will cause your dog's ears to itch, which often results in them shaking their head excessively, or scratching at their ears with their paws. Ear mites can also cause your dog's ears to: produce wax. become irritated, causing them to look red and inflamed.
You might notice these physical symptoms as well: swelling, reddish ear wax, and redness. These symptoms are similar to yeast infections, but a significant difference is the dark granules in your dog's ears that resemble coffee grounds. These granules are ear mite discharge.
Today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved DuOtic (terbinafine and betamethasone acetate otic gel) for the treatment of otitis externa in dogs, associated with susceptible strains of yeast (Malassezia pachydermatis).
Symptoms of Dog Skin Yeast Infections
A single dose of NexGard® for Dogs or NexGard SPECTRA® for Dogs is highly effective at treating ear mites in puppies and dogs. If the ear irritation persists, or a secondary ear infection requiring additional treatment is present, it's best to consult with your vet.
Sorry—there aren't any safe, effective home remedies to treat ear mites. It's important to talk to your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ear mites.
Other ear issues, such as fungal or bacterial infections, can have symptoms similar to those of ear mite infestations. It's important to seek an accurate diagnosis from a veterinarian to choose a safe and effective treatment option.
The only home remedy for yeast infections in dogs that has any scientific data to support it is a vinegar rinse. A vinegar rinse is able to help change the pH of the skin to make it less desirable for yeast. The proper dilution is essential to avoid irritation.
Allergens that lots of dogs are sensitive to, such as grain or dairy products, could be responsible for triggering their yeast infections. Going for a grain-free dog food and/or avoiding dairy products and other common allergens entirely will likely help.
There are certain breeds thought to be genetically predisposed to developing yeast infections. These breeds include West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Cocker Spaniel, Silky Terrier, Australian Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Chihuahua, Poodle, Shetland Sheepdog, Lhasa Apso, and Dachshund.
Signs of a Yeast Infection in Your Dog's Ear
Yeast ear infections can lead your dog to experience 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.
The Best Food Choices for Dogs With Yeast Infections
Cleaning the ear mites and debris prior to treatment with commercial medications is effective for addressing ear mites, as are several home remedies including mineral oil, vinegar and water solutions, and honey applications. Be sure to monitor your dog's ear mite infection and get professional assistance if required.
Common causes include skin allergies, ear infections and ear mites. Contact your vet as soon as possible if you notice your dog head shaking/scratching their ears – the sooner the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat.
The most common way for a dog to catch ear mites is from another dog, but they can also survive in the environment for months so it's possible your dog could have caught them from your home, garden or while out and about.
Clean and protect with the Miracle Care Ear Mite Treatment Kit for Dogs. This kit includes Ear Mite treatment and R-7 ear cleaner. This pyrethrin-based liquid controls spinose ear ticks and ear mites.
Here are common ear mite symptoms you may notice:
An apple cider vinegar bath can help get rid of the mange mites. Mix ½ cup of apple cider vinegar with ½ cup of Borax and warm water. Be sure the Borax is fully dissolved before sponging the mixture on your dog's skin and coat. Also make sure your dog does not lick the mixture, as ingesting Borax can be harmful.
Breeds Prone to Ear Infections and Signs to Watch For
Untreated yeast infections can become chronic and lead to unnecessary discomfort for your dog. Over time, untreated infections may result in: Widespread inflammation and irritation. Increased risk of secondary bacterial infections.
While most dry foods rely on high-glycemic fillers like rice, corn, or potatoes, Spot & Tango avoids all of that—making it an ideal choice for dogs prone to yeast issues.
Clumps of dead skin cells start to appear as yellowish or greyish flakes and the underlying skin often looks pink and inflamed. Crusty areas or raised, crusty spots may appear on your dog's skin. Thickened or darkened areas of skin – If the skin has been affected for a while, chronic changes may begin to appear.