10 Things To Look For If You Suspect Ear Mites In Dogs

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Your dog’s ears can say a lot about their health, but how often do we really check them? A little itch here and there might seem harmless, but persistent discomfort could be a sign of something far more irritating—ear mites. Keep reading to discover the ten most important signs that could mean your dog is dealing with an ear mite infestation.

Frequent Head Shaking

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Head shaking is one of the first signs you’ll notice if your dog has ear mites. It happens because your pet is trying to relieve the discomfort they have from the intense itching. Watch closely—persistent shaking could indicate a serious issue that needs immediate attention.

Whimpering Or Changes In Behavior

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Ear mite infestations can make some dogs more irritable, withdrawn, or even aggressive. If your normally friendly dog suddenly seems agitated or avoids head pats, it could be a reaction to ear pain. Early treatment can prevent the discomfort from escalating into secondary infections or long-term stress.

Excessive Scratching At Ears

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When your dog scratches its ears incessantly, it’s more than just a mild annoyance. Ear mites cause severe itching, prompting dogs to scratch, paw, or even bite at their ears. This behavior often leads to sore, inflamed skin that demands veterinary care to prevent further damage.

Dark Brown Or Black Ear Discharge

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If you notice an unusual discharge in your dog’s ear, book an appointment. The dark, coffee-ground-like discharge often includes earwax, mite waste, and sometimes blood. Vets can confirm ear mites with a simple swab test under a microscope and prescribe medicated drops to eliminate the infestation effectively.

Loss Of Hearing Or Balance Issues

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Does your dog seem to be ignoring commands or appears uncoordinated? It could be due to ear mites. The irritation and infection caused by the mites can lead to temporary hearing loss or balance problems. This is a sign to take immediate action to prevent permanent damage to your dog’s ears.

Red Or Inflamed Ears

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At the first sign of swollen or red ears, take your dog for an assessment. It could be due to ear mites that cause irritation as they burrow into the skin. Such visible inflammation or swelling requires prompt treatment so it does not escalate into a bigger issue.

Visible Scabs Or Sores Around The Ear

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Constant scratching by ear mites can create painful sores or scabs around the ear. Over time, the irritation leads to raw skin, which may bleed or become infected. It’s essential to address these wounds before they turn into abscesses or permanent scarring.

Constant Rubbing Of Ears Against Furniture Or Carpet

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Ignoring your dog’s excessive ear rubbing can lead to serious issues like infections, inflammation, and even hearing loss in extreme cases. This behavior signals significant irritation, often caused by ear mites. When your dog presses its ears against surfaces, it’s a desperate attempt to relieve the relentless itching.

Pale Or Yellowish Inner Ears

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Pale or yellowish discoloration inside the ear can signal a buildup of wax and infection due to ear mites. It could also indicate the presence of bacteria or yeast, which thrive in the moist environment of the ear canal. If you notice a change in color, your dog’s inner ear health needs urgent attention.

Ear Swelling Or Lumps Around The Ear Area

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Ear mites often irritate and lead to swelling and lumps. Persistent symptoms like scratching and head shaking can result in aural hematomas, which are painful blood-filled swellings that require surgical intervention.

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