Ear infections are one of the most common—and frustrating—reasons pet owners bring their dogs to the veterinarian. They’re painful, smelly, and confusing. When the ear infection keeps coming back, it can feel like you’ll never get ahead of them.
This episode is part of the HEAR NOW series (Help, Educate, Assess, Regulate), created in partnership with Merck Animal Health. In this two-part series, expert guest Dr. Christine McKinney, Merck Animal Health Small Animal Dermatology Specialist, joins to answer the most frequently asked questions about dog ear infections to give pet owners the clear, evidence-based information they need.
Why Do Dogs Keep Getting Ear Infections?
The #1 question veterinarians hear is: “Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?”
The answer is almost always: primary disease.
Allergies are the most common culprit (environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold).
Food allergies may play a role, but are less common.
Other possible causes include hypothyroidism, parasites, foreign bodies (like foxtails or grass awns), or even inflammatory growths like polyps.
Dogs with allergies don’t just have “dirty ears.” They have inflammation that changes the ear canal environment, making it the perfect breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. That’s why treatment has to go beyond cleaning up the infection—it has to manage the root cause.
Are Food Allergies Causing Ear Infections?
Another popular internet search: “Does my dog’s ear infection mean they have a food allergy?”
Food allergies do exist in dogs, but they account for only 20–30% of all allergic dogs, and not all of those dogs will develop ear disease.
A strict elimination diet trial is the gold standard for diagnosis.
Randomly switching foods or just “cutting out chicken” won’t provide real answers.
Many dogs with food allergies also have environmental allergies, so diet alone is rarely the full solution.
If you want to explore this option, work with your veterinarian or a veterinary dermatologist to make sure it’s done correctly.
Do Floppy Ears Cause Ear Infections in Dogs?
Many people assume dogs with floppy ears are doomed to have infections forever. The truth?
Floppy or heavy ear flaps are a predisposing factor, not a primary cause.
Heavy ears can trap moisture and block airflow, which interferes with the ear’s natural cleaning mechanism.
Breeds like Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds may need special maintenance plans, but they are not automatically destined for chronic infections.
Simple interventions such as regular ear cleaning, anti-inflammatory drops, or customized maintenance plans from your vet can make a big difference.
Does Swimming Cause Ear Infections in Dogs?
Summer swimmers, listen up:
Moisture from swimming or bathing can contribute to infections, but it’s rarely the only cause.
If your dog loves the water (like most Retrievers), don’t hold them back. Instead:
Ask your vet about drying ear cleansers to use after swimming.
Work with your vet to develop a customized maintenance plan.
Letting your dog enjoy their favorite activities while keeping their ears healthy is all about balance.
Is Ear Cleaning Enough to Prevent Infections?
Pet owners often ask if regular ear cleaning is the solution. The truth is:
- Most normal dogs don’t need routine cleaning. If they do, there is likely a primary disease.
Ear cleaning helps, but it’s not a cure.
Cleaning removes wax and debris, and certain veterinary cleaners contain drying or antimicrobial properties.
Over-cleaning can irritate the canal and make things worse.
The best cleaning plan depends on your dog’s unique needs and should be guided by your veterinarian.
Treatment Spotlight:
When infections do happen, effective treatment is essential. Your veterinarian should recommend cytology to look for the type of infection in your dog’s ear(s). For certain bacterial or yeast infections, veterinarians may use Mometamax Single™️, a single-dose, in-clinic treatment from Merck Animal Health.
No struggling with ear drops at home.
Provides antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory relief.
Not for every case, but a helpful option for dogs and owners where compliance is tough.
Always talk with your veterinarian about whether this option is right for your pet.
Mometamax Single™ (gentamicin, posaconazole, and mometasone furoate otic suspension) – IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Mometamax SingleTM is for otic use in dogs only. Do not use in cats. Mometamax Single should be administered by veterinary personnel. Do not use in dogs with known tympanic membrane perforation. The integrity of the tympanic membrane should be confirmed before administering the product. Reevaluate the dog if hearing loss or signs of vestibular dysfunction are observed during treatment. Do not use in dogs with known or suspected hypersensitivity to gentamicin, posaconazole, or mometasone furoate. Avoid contact with eyes. For complete instructions and safety information, refer to the product label.
Key Takeaways About Ear Infections for Dog Owners
Ear infections are almost always secondary to primary disease, most often allergies.
Floppy ears and swimming don’t cause infections alone, but they can make them worse.
Food allergies are less common than many people think, but worth investigating properly.
Cleaning helps, but it’s not enough on its own—over-cleaning can even harm.
Partnership with your vet is the most important tool in breaking the cycle.
