Description: The inflammation of the external part of the ear canal and caused by a variety of factors including trauma, allergies, parasites, bacteria, presence of foreign object, yeast, or congenital predisposition. Otitis externa is manifested by redness and swelling of the affected ear, pain, discharge, and a foul odor emanating from the ear. The dog may also scratch at the inflamed ear. In order to give the best treatment, a thorough examination is done and swabs are usually taken from the ear to test for the presence of mites, bacteria, or yeast. For bacterial infections, antibiotics are usually administered while antifungal treatments can be given to get rid of the yeast infections. Thorough ear cleaning is also necessary.

Breeds Commonly Affected: ABasset Hound, Bloodhound, Clumber Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Field Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Kerry Blue Terrier, Komondor, Old English Sheepdog, Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, Pyrenees Braque Francais, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Spinone Italiano, Sussex Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, Wirehaired Pointing Griffon