Companion Animals

Dog Chronic Ear Disease Management

Chronic otitis in dogs causes persistent pain and recurrent infections, requiring long-term management and addressing underlying causes.

Key Facts

Chronic otitis affects up to 20% of dogs with allergic skin disease
Ear anatomy in floppy-eared and hairy-eared breeds increases risk
Biofilm formation in chronic cases makes treatment much more difficult
Video otoscopy enables better visualisation and treatment targeting
Allergy management is essential for preventing recurrence in atopic dogs

Welfare Considerations

Chronic ear disease causes persistent pain that dogs often conceal through habituation. Many dogs live for years with undertreated painful ear conditions. Addressing underlying causes - primarily allergies - alongside symptomatic treatment is essential for welfare. Deep ear flushing under anaesthesia may be necessary for established disease.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary assessment for dogs showing any ear discomfort signs
Discuss allergy testing if ear disease recurs despite treatment
Avoid over-cleaning ears which disrupts normal ear flora