Dog ear infection treatment: what can I do at home?
The short answer
Towel the ear base dry, wipe only the visible flap, nothing inside.
Ear medicine depends on whether it is yeast, bacteria or mites; a vet decides.
Dog ke kaan me infection ho to kya kare?
Kaan ka bahar wala hissa sukha rakhein, andar kuch na daalein, vet se baat karein.
Safe to do tonight
- Towel-dry the ear base, wipe only the visible flap
- Vet-approved dog ear cleaner only, on the vet's schedule
- Seek vet advice for smell, discharge or repeated shaking
About the ear medicine
- Yeast, bacteria and mites each need a different ear medicine
- Vet looks down the ear canal and tests a swab
- Follow the vet's full plan: smell fades before infection does
Never use on a dog's ear
- Earbuds: they push debris deeper and can perforate
- Dettol, Savlon, spirit or peroxide: they burn inflamed ears
- Human ear drops, oil, garlic or paracetamol on your own
When help can’t wait
See a vet today if
- Dog's ear has a new smell, redness or discharge
- Dog shakes its head repeatedly, or the ear is painful
- Swollen ear flap after shaking: vet within 24 hours
- Ears keep getting smelly: allergy or moisture may drive it
Go to a clinic now
Dog has head tilt, circling, stumbling, flicking eyes, drooping face, bleeding, fever with severe pain, or violent one-sided shaking.
Not sure? Ask a vet.
Questions here are for non-urgent pet care.Prefer a video consultation?
This page is for general guidance and does not replace an examination by a vet.