Dog Ear Problems

Questions About Dog Ear Problems

My Dog's Ear Hurts

Hello,

It may be nothing but my Shih Tzu/Maltese puppy is acting strangely. He doesn't like noise, and he yelps when I touch his ear and neck area. I was wondering if this is a sign of an infection or illness. I am very worried about him because he is also shaking quite heavily. He is up to date with all his vaccinations.

~~ Kim

Expert Reply

Hi Kim,

I'm not a vet, but I suspect that your dog may have a serious ear infection that reaches deep into his ear canal. Shih Tzus and Maltese tend to grow hair in their ears, and this makes them especially susceptible to ear infections because of the reduced air flow.

The best thing you can do is make an appointment to have your vet examine your dog and figure out what's causing the pain. If it's not his ears, he may have a gum infection that has worked it's way through to the sinus nerve above the tooth. Only your vet can tell for sure.

Thank you for your question, and I truly hope your dog is feeling better very soon.

~~ Kelly

Allergies Make Dog Miserable

My Cocker Spaniel has had some kind of allergy for years now. His ears are constantly getting infected, and he is always licking his feet non-stop.

I have spent so much money in and out of the vet. A year ago they told me to start on a new food called Natural Balance, but this hasn't brought about any change in his condition. Could you please suggest a good food I can give him? The vet always wants to change his food, but none of them work. I have changed three different times in the last three years. I really hate to see my dog suffer so much.

One more question, is it okay to give my dog carrots? Quite a few years ago, a different vet said this was fine and this is what I have given him for treats.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.

~~Cheri

Expert Reply

Hi Cheri,

I understand your frustration over your dog's situation. It's a terrible feeling to watch your dog suffer and not be able to fix the problem.

I do agree that it sounds like a classic case of food allergy. Have the vets you've worked with simply suggested switching formulas, or have they actually tested your dog for specific food allergies. If you haven't already read our article on Dog Food Allergies, please check it out. It describes the process. If you can determine the exact foods your dog is allergic to, you stand a good chance of curing his condition.

I'd also like to ask if your dog has ever been specifically tested and treated for a yeast infection? The foot licking is usually tied to an itchy infection of this nature. Many chronic ear infections can also be tied to this organism. If your vet has tried this route yet, please encourage him to at least test for it. It may make all the difference in his condition.

Now for the carrots. Unless your dog is actually allergic to them, which would be extremely rare, they are a wonderful food source. Carrots and green beans are included in many home-cooked dog diets. This may be another route to consider in addressing your dog's food allergy.

Cheri, I sincerely hope that my suggestions will be helpful to your situation. You have my best wishes for your dog's recovery.

~~ Kelly