Companion Animals

Dog Ear Disease and Chronic Discomfort

Ear disease is among the most common and painful conditions in dogs, particularly in breeds with heavy, pendulous ears or narrow ear canals.

Key Facts

Otitis externa affects up to 20% of dogs seen in veterinary practice
Cocker spaniels, Labradors, and Shar Peis are highest-risk breeds
Underlying allergies drive most chronic ear disease
Recurrent infections cause progressive structural changes
Early management prevents stenosis and middle ear involvement

Welfare Considerations

Chronic ear disease causes significant pain, head shaking, scratching, and secondary self-trauma. The itch-scratch cycle is distressing. Many dogs suffer for extended periods before effective treatment is initiated.

What You Can Do

Have your dog's ears checked regularly, especially if head shaking occurs
Manage underlying allergies to reduce ear disease recurrence
Advocate for breed standards that do not exaggerate ear architecture