Dog Ear Infections – Natural Remedies That Really Work

Did you know that ear infections in dogs are one of the main reasons people take their dog or cat to the vet (other than life-threatening illnesses)?

And did you also know that in many cases, these infections could be treated naturally — without recurring flare-ups?

Now, I know that giving you natural tips and advice on this isn’t going to make me very popular with some vets. But I realised a long time ago that not everyone is going to like what I say (and it would be a boring world if we were all the same!). It’s impossible to please everyone — and to be honest, I no longer try.

So fasten your seat belts, because here we go…

What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?

The number one root cause of many illnesses in pets is insufficient nutrients and inadequate ingredients in their food and diet. This can be made worse by exposure to environmental toxins.

That’s why the best prevention is always a healthy, nutrient-rich diet (true for us humans too!).

When it comes to ear infections specifically, here are the most common causes:

🐶 Bacteria – they thrive in warm, moist areas. A scratch or cut near the ear canal can create the perfect breeding ground.

🐶 Allergies – both food and environmental. Food allergies can lead to Candida (a yeast infection) which causes pain and inflammation.

🐶 A suppressed immune system – often the result of recurring infections, overuse of antibiotics, hormonal imbalance, or certain medications.

🐶 Ear mites – tiny spider-like insects that live in the ear canal. They love a warm, moist environment and cause irritation and inflammation.

🐶 A foreign object – something organic or non-organic lodged in the ear canal. Fox tail grasses are a common culprit.

Symptoms of Ear Infections in Dogs

If your dog has an ear infection, you may notice:

🐾 A regular build-up of ear wax that returns within a day or two of cleaning

🐾 Pain or sensitivity – your dog may turn their head away or cry when you touch their ears

🐾 Giddiness and/or vomiting

🐾 Holding their head to one side

🐾 Red and inflamed ear flap or canal

🐾 Persistent scratching of the ears

🐾 Excessive head shaking

🐾 A nasty smell

4 Natural Remedies for Dog Ear Infections

Here are four effective, natural solutions you can try:

• 1. Apple Cider Vinegar – Packed with antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Great for infections as long as there are no open wounds (it will sting). Always use raw, unfiltered ACV for best results. Bragg’s Organic or Raw Health Organic with “the mother” are excellent choices.

• 2. Colloidal Silver Water or Gel Ear Drops – Silver is a powerful, natural broad-spectrum antibiotic that quickens the healing process. It’s also antiseptic, antifungal and a disinfectant. (Available online.)

• 3. Garlic and Mullein Oil Ear Drops – Mullein contains antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Garlic is a natural broad-spectrum antibiotic. You can buy these online or make your own (search “garlic and mullein oil for dogs”).

• 4. Garlic Oil Ear Drops – Garlic is often used as a natural antibiotic. It’s also an antioxidant, anti-allergen, antifungal and even anticancer. Again, you can purchase this online or make it yourself (search “garlic oil for dogs”).

But Isn’t Garlic Dangerous for Dogs?

You may have heard that garlic is bad for dogs. The confusion often comes from its close cousin — the onion.

Both garlic and onion contain thiosulphate, the substance that can cause Heinz Factor anaemia in dogs. However, garlic contains this in barely traceable amounts. The levels found in onions are far higher, which is why onions are unsafe, while garlic (in safe, small doses) is widely used in natural healing.

My Motto: Treat the Cause

When I worked in my complementary therapy practice my motto was:

“Treat the cause and the symptoms magically disappear.”

That motto remains with me today — and always will 🙂

By using natural remedies like the ones above, you treat the cause rather than just masking the symptoms. This means no recurring infections and no unwanted side effects.

Final Thoughts

Vets do an amazing job, and there are times when their services are absolutely invaluable. But in many cases, these simple, natural remedies can provide relief and prevent repeat infections.

Give the remedies above a try — and of course, if you are ever in doubt about your dog’s health, always seek professional help from a qualified vet.

🐾 Would you like more step-by-step help with your dog? You’ll find proven solutions in my Dog Training DVDs and Online Courses — trusted by over 26,000 dog owners worldwide. And remember to scroll back up to grab your FREE eBook, packed with kind, effective methods to stop pulling, aggression, and unwanted behaviour.