Ear Mites in Dogs

Has your dog been shaking their head or scratching their ears unduly lately? It could be these tiny parasites, ear mites that have inhabited their ear canals and are causing extreme itching and discomfort. It is essential to get the treatment for ear mites quickly to avoid secondary infections. 

The article explains the symptoms to look out for when your dog catches ear mites, how the vets diagnose ear mites in dogs, and the treatment plan to help you ease their discomfort.

What Are Ear Mites in Dogs?

Ear mites, also known as Otodectes cynotis, are tiny parasites typically found in ear canals or the surroundings of a dog's ears and feed on ear wax and oil, which can cause itching, pain, and abnormal discharge.

However, ear mites are generally uncommon in dogs and are mostly found in cats, but some dogs can also get these parasites when they come in contact with an infected animal. Normally, you will find ear mites in dogs and puppies that spend more time outdoors. 

Although ear mites may not be thought of as a medical emergency, if left untreated, they may cause secondary infection or hearing loss. So, getting your dog checked with a vet immediately is crucial if you think they may be infested with these tiny parasites. 

Symptoms of Ear Mites in Dogs

The symptoms you must look out for ear mites in dogs include:

• Itchy, red ears

• Head shaking 

• Brown or black waxy ear discharge

• Head tilt

• Lethargy

• Loss of hair near the ears and eyes caused by excessive scratching

• Declined appetite

• Encrusted rash around or in the ear

How Do Dogs Catch Ear Mites?

It is important to understand how your dog caught ear mites if you want to get rid of ear mites in your dog. Pets usually catch ear mites from close contact with another animal infested with ear mites. They can also catch ear mites from their environment, usually where other infested animals may be present, such as dog parks.

Are Ear Mites Contagious to Other Pets?

Yes, ear mites are highly contagious to other pets. If your dog is infested, they could pass that on to other pets in the household. And despite other pets not showing any symptoms, it is crucial that they also get proper treatment simultaneously. 

How Veterinarians Diagnose Ear Mites in Dogs

Whenever you doubt that your dog may have caught ear mites, visit your veterinarian and get them properly checked.

The diagnosis will involve examining your dog’s ears closely using an otoscope to find any abnormal discharge from their ear canals and to check swelling. Then, they may ask about other pets in the family and other details about your dog's medicines or preventatives.

If there is discharge from the ear, it will be examined under a microscope by collecting the sample with a cotton swab. This way, the vet looks for ear mites or their eggs. 

Also, there is a chance that these mites may cause secondary infection, which is why the vet may collect another sample from the ear canal and examine it under a microscope to find bacteria or yeast. 

Treatment of Ear Mites in Dogs

According to the VCA Animal Hospitals, the veterinarian will decide the most suitable insecticidal products for ear mite treatment. Multiple treatment options are available for ear mites, including daily topical ear mite medicine for dogs, single-use products, or injections, such as ivermectin. 

According to an article by PetMD, veterinarians usually begin the treatment by cleaning the debris off the dog’s ears with the help of ear cleansers, which allows medication to work better. Cleansing once daily until the mites and infections are gone is essential.

Topical and oral flea, tick, and heartworm preventives are highly effective in treating ear mites in dogs. Sometimes they may not be labeled to treat ear mites, but are often used this way (always consult with your veterinarian).

Also, single-use products are being considered more effective at killing ear mites. The products include Bravecto® and Advantage Multi®. 

Moreover, if your dog has also been diagnosed with a secondary infection (bacterial or yeast infection), the veterinarian may prescribe a topical medication. It should be applied to the ear canals after cleansing for a week. 

Conclusion

When the treatment ends, the pet parents must bring their dogs back to the vet for a repeat check-up of their dog's ears to ensure the ear mites are gone. Weekly cleaning of your dog's ears will clear any debris and minimize the risk of infections. Also, be regular with your dog's flea, tick, and heartworm preventives to protect them from ear mites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do dog ear mites look like?

While seeing ear mites on dogs with the naked eye is quite challenging, they can sometimes appear as tiny white spots. 

How to get rid of ear mites in dogs?

The treatment of ear mites usually begins with cleansing the dog’s ears thoroughly and carefully, followed by topical, oral, or both medications advised by the veterinarian. 

What are the home remedies for ear mites in dogs?

Some popular home remedies for treating ear mites include green tea rinse to flush out all the ear mite debris, but it’s always better to consult your veterinarian.