Dogs, our closest animal companions, can sometimes get sick just like humans and may need help from their human friends. In such situations, they try to communicate their discomfort to you without speaking. One of the most common issues you’ll see in them is an ear infection.

Ear infection in dogs, it manifests itself through certain behavioral changes and physical symptoms. If you notice your dog constantly shaking its head, touching its ear with its paw, keeping its head tilted to one side, acting irritable, or reacting strongly when the area around its ear is touched, it may be trying to communicate an ear infection through its behavior. In addition, physical symptoms such as a dark discharge ranging from black to brown, a foul odor, swelling and redness around the ear, fever, and diarrhea may also indicate an ear infection in your dog.

Inflammation can occur in the outer ear canal or in the inner and middle ear. Inflammation in the outer ear canal is easier to treat and is immediately apparent as redness on the outside. However, inflammation in the inner and middle ear is more painful and is characterized by discharge and foul odors. Inflammation developing in these areas can be quite painful for your dog.

There are steps you can take to prevent an uncomfortable condition like “otitis externa,” or outer ear infection, in dogs. The primary cause of this discharge is grass seeds that remain in a dog’s ear after spending time outdoors during the spring months. Foreign objects entering the ear canal, hormonal changes, a poorly ventilated ear canal, allergens, and tumors can also lead to infection in the ear canal. In some dogs, an anatomical structure with low-set ears can prevent proper airflow to the ear, potentially leading to an ear infection.

The best way to prevent this without any of these issues is to check your dog’s ears when they come home—especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors—and clean them if necessary. Proper hygiene is the first line of defense against infection.

Nacotil It is effective in preventing the breakdown and regrowth of biofilms. It plays a supportive role in treating infections and otitis externa. It can be used as a preventive measure in healthy ears.

If you notice the symptoms mentioned above in your dog’s ear, you can perform an initial examination yourself. By gently lifting your dog’s ear, you can check for obvious signs such as redness, discharge, or swelling. These symptoms are sufficient reason to consult a veterinarian. It’s best to seek veterinary care for your dog as soon as possible if they’re in pain. After the veterinarian’s examination, you’ll need to administer the medications prescribed for the infection to your dog.