LoveToKnow Dogs:AllComments

From LoveToKnow Dogs

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Hi Rhionna,

Docking tails and cropping ears is a very old tradition. It was originally performed to limit the potential for injuries to these body parts as the dogs went about doing the jobs they were bred for, ie: protecting flocks from predators, chasing vermin underground, etc. Today, many of these breeds are kept more as pets rather than actual working dogs, but the tradition persists because it's part of a breed's signature look. That said, some breeders/owners are now choosing not to dock or crop, allowing the dogs to remain in their natural state.

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

why do people cropp dogs ears?

-- Contributed by: rhionna

Hi Emma,

You should always be careful not to get bath water in your dog's ears because it could cause an infection. As for whether ear hair should be removed before or after the bath, I haven't heard an opinion one way or the other. It would be easier to grasp dry hair with a pair of forceps to gently but firmly pull it out in small tufts. Many groomers use a little ear powder to make the hair easier to grasp. Pulling out dirty ear hair prior to bathing might also streamline the entire grooming process because after initial flap cleaning, the ears are now clear for deeper cleaning with a swab.

That's my opinion, but if any professional groomer read your comment, I'd appreciate their input whether it truly makes a difference.

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I hear its better to clean and remove any hair from a dog's ears before bathing, is there any reason for this?

-- Contributed by: Emma

Hi Alicia,

It really does sound as though your dog has ear mites and perhaps a bit of an infection as well. It's important to clean out the ear as thoroughly as you can. Many pet supply stores sell ear wash and miticide for dog ears. Just follow the directions on the label. If this doesn't take care of the problem you should follow up with your vet. Your dog may wind up needing an antibiotic for the infection.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your dog recovers quickly.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I have a quick question...my dog has a brown discharge coming out of one of her ears...and it really stinks.... what could it be?? ear mites??

-- Contributed by: Alicia

Hi Sherry,

It certainly sounds like your daughter's Boxer might have had a food allergy. I'm glad the new diet seems to be working out well. Thanks for sharing the info. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

My daughter's Boxer has had a ear problem for quite some time and she changed the food from lamb to herring and sweet potatoe and he is during great. She is also making sure his ears are always clean.

-- Contributed by: Enter your name here

Hi Becky,

Thanks for sharing what worked for you. Maybe the info will help someone else.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

My dog had cronic ear infectios for the first year of his live,then some said he may have an allergy I cange his food to non WHEAT We use Chicken Soup For the Dog Lovers Soul,(do not work for the company or sell it just a good product) we have had no infections in4 yrs. so doggie may have an allergy

-- Contributed by: Becky

Hi Robert,

The tilted head is often a sign of an inner ear infection. Check out our article on Dog Ear Infections for a bit more info. You won't likely see much improvement in your dog's condition until most of the antibiotic course has been administered, but be sure to give the medication as directed until it is gone. As for the MRI, you would likely have to contact the veterinary department at your nearest state college. It's an expensive piece of equipment, and most vets don't have one. Your vet can help you make the connections and may even be able to tell you an approximate cost. However, my advice is to let the medication do its job, and let your dog get plenty of rest. You should see an improvement begin in the next few days, but don't hesitate to call your vet if your dog doesn't seem to respond to the antibiotics.

Thanks for your questions, and best wishes for your dog's health.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

What are the symptoms of inner ear problems? My dog is unsteady on his feet mainly in the hind legs, head is cocked to the left side. Saw the vet , she put him on antibiotics. When should I see an improvement in him. There is no vomiting, he is not as playful, disposition has not changed, his appetite is off a little. If I want an MRI what would it cost? Worried about him++++++++.

-- Contributed by: Robert Steele

I would like to know what can be done when traveling in the car in elevated areas. I think my dogs ears bother them as they get very upset every time I go through the grapevine. As soon as my ears start popping, the dogs start freaking out. Any ideas?

Hi Lori,

This question might be better addressed by your vet, but let me make one suggestion. Chewing seems to help relieve the pressure in human ears at high altitudes. That's why some people like to chew gum while flying. Perhaps keeping some dog biscuits on hand to feed your dogs periodically as you ascend will help relieve the pressure in their ears as well? I don't think it would hurt to give it a try. Let me know if it works, or any advise your vet has to offer about the situation.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: lori
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