A dog ear yeast infection looks like red, swollen, itchy ears with a strong, musty odor, producing dark brown, greasy, waxy discharge, and can cause the skin to look crusty, thickened, or have an "orange-peel" texture, leading to constant head shaking, tilting, or scratching.
It is important to determine whether the infection is caused by yeast, bacteria, or both. If your dog has a yeast infection of the outer ear canal, the vet might prescribe a topical antifungal ointment or cream. Miconazole and ketoconazole are two antifungal medicines that are often effective.
A yeast infection and a bacterial infection in dogs can look the same to the naked eye. To determine the difference, your veterinarian can take a sample of the ear discharge. When examined under the microscope, your vet can distinguish between a bacterial and yeast ear infection by the microbes they see.
Treatment involves antifungal shampoos, allergy medications, and maintaining hygiene. Over-the-counter products like Monistat are sometimes used but should be applied cautiously and only after vet approval. Preventative care includes regular cleaning, avoiding moisture buildup, and monitoring for recurring infections.
There's some evidence to suggest that common food allergens, such as grain, could be responsible for yeast infections in some dogs, alongside other food triggers such as dairy or sugar.
The Best Food Choices for Dogs With Yeast Infections
If left untreated, ear infections in dogs can lead to more serious infections and symptoms. These can include problems with balance and coordination, intense pain, and in some cases, facial paralysis.
Diets High in Sugar and Carbs
While there is no best dog food for yeast infections, diets high in sugar and carbohydrates can create an environment that promotes yeast overgrowth, making them the worst dog food choices for dogs prone to yeast infections.
Many ear infections won't heal on their own and require veterinary attention. Fortunately, if symptoms are minor, you can manage and treat the dog's ears at home, potentially avoiding a trip to the veterinarian. However, severe cases and chronic infections may need professional veterinary care.
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 That Your Dog May Have A Yeast Ear Infection
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.
The frequency of cleaning your dog's ears will depend on whether it is for treatment of an infection, which could be up to daily to start, or maintenance, which could be every 1-2 weeks. Dogs with a history of allergies, recurrent ear infections, or floppy ears may need their ears cleaned more frequently.
The paws are a common site for a yeast infection in a dog. If your dog is licking or chewing at their paws, they may have some pain, discomfort or itching there. Yeast infections are one of many reasons why a dog's paws might be irritated, and constant licking can cause more inflammation and discomfort.
Antifungal ear drops, such as fluconazole and clotrimazole, can treat many types of fungal ear infections.
Allergens such as pollens, mold, dust, cigarette smoke, cleaning products, and even certain foods, especially if they're high in sugar and carbs, can also lead to yeast infections. For some dogs, yeast problems are seasonal, and when the temperature and humidity are high, problems with yeast can occur.
Some of the dog breeds prone to ear infections include basset hounds, bloodhounds, Chinese Shar-peis, cocker spaniels, beagles, Labradoodles, and golden retrievers.
The most common primary cause of yeast otitis is allergies. Environmental or food allergies can cause ear inflammation, leading to yeast overgrowth. Dogs who frequently go in the water may be at a higher risk due to their ears getting wet. Excess moisture getting trapped in the ear canals can lead to yeast overgrowth.
Home treatments for dog ear infections
Dark Brown or Reddish-Brown
Dark brown earwax may simply be a build-up of healthy wax. Your dog's ear may just need cleaning. Gently wipe away the dirt and debris with a warm, damp cloth and dry afterward. Yeast infections (candida or Malassezia spp) commonly cause earwax to turn greasy, dark brown or reddish-brown.
Apple cider vinegar can be used to combat yeast that has already manifested on the skin and coat, and this is because yeast cannot tolerate acidic pH. Mix apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio and rub it on your dog's body. The yeast won't like this and will stop multiplying.
Zignature Kangaroo Dry Food is a great option for dogs with yeast infections because it uses kangaroo as a novel protein, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions that can contribute to yeast overgrowth.
However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before including yogurt in your dog's diet, as some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to dairy products. Additionally, yogurt should not be viewed as a treatment for yeast infections in dogs, but rather a supplemental measure to support overall health.
Recognizing Common Symptoms
The acidity of apple cider vinegar helps restore the ear's natural pH and fights against yeast overgrowth. Another effective home remedy is coconut oil due to its antifungal properties. A small amount applied to the inside of a dog's ear can help soothe irritation and combat the fungus causing the infection.
A severe inner ear infection can spread to the part of the brain that controls your dog's breathing and heart rate, although this is quite rare. Two potential long-term complications of inner ear infection include a permanently altered sense of balance and persistent signs of Horner's syndrome.