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How To Treat A Dog Ear Infection Without A Vet
Written By Alex Olsson
Published: 06/11/2017Updated: 04/09/2025
Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
How to treat a dog ear infection without a vet
Hmm, your dog’s acting a bit off, and you’re starting to wonder if they might have an ear infection. Not every dog suffers from this, but certain breeds — like Cocker Spaniels, Pugs, and Bulldogs — are more likely to get them.
No matter what breed your dog is, it’s a good idea to regularly check and clean their ears to prevent dirt from building up, which can lead to bacteria and infections.
Ear infections can be super painful for your pup, so it’s a good idea to reach out to the vet. But sometimes treating a dog ear infection naturally at home can be just as effective, and it might even be quicker and easier depending on your dog’s symptoms.
Of course, whether you go the natural route or not, keep in mind that it varies just how well home remedies work. Things like the type and severity of the infection, and your dog’s breed, can make a big difference in how effective your treatment is.
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Where do dog ear infections come from?
Your dog’s ears play a big role in their ability to pick up sounds, even the faintest ones. But because their ears are so open, they’re also prone to collecting dirt, dust, and dead skin cells.
Over time, these things can create a perfect environment for yeast, bacteria, and parasites to grow, which can lead to an ear infection.
It’s tough to watch your furry friend suffer, and ear infections can cause them a lot of pain and distress. If left untreated, the infection can even spread to the central nervous system and cause hearing loss.
Once an infection takes hold, your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics to get rid of it. In some cases, if the infection is severe, your dog may even need to be put under anesthesia to have their ear thoroughly cleaned out.
It’s always best to catch these things early, so don’t hesitate to reach out to the vet if you suspect something’s up!
Natural treatment for dog ear infection
Considering a natural treatment for dog ear infection can be a great alternative to rushing straight to the vet, and it can actually work really well — especially if you catch the infection early. As with most health issues, the earlier you address the problem, the easier it is to manage.
But, if you’re unsure at all, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet first. They can help you figure out whether a natural remedy will work or if it’s time for something a bit stronger to prevent a more serious infection from developing later on.
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When should I avoid treating a dog ear infection naturally?
Natural treatments for dog ear infections can get a bad rap sometimes, but they’re actually pretty helpful once the infection is under control. They’re a great way to keep your dog’s ears clean and free from bacteria, yeast, and mites.
However, if your dog’s ears are really inflamed or have broken skin, it’s best to let the vet have a look. They can prescribe antibiotics to clear things up quickly.
If the infection’s very bad, then definitely leave it to the pros. The only way to know if your dog’s eardrum isn’t damaged is for a vet to take a peek inside. And if that’s the case, your pup might need a little sedation to make sure they’re comfortable while the vet works on their ear.
Bacterial and fungal infections can cause some serious problems if they’re left untreated, so it’s super important to act fast. As always, if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to call the vet! Better safe than sorry.
Natural ear infection remedies for dogs
If your dog’s ear is really swollen or they're in a lot of pain, don’t try to handle it with a home remedy — definitely reach out to your vet.
But if the vet gives the all-clear and says it’s just a mild infection in the early stages, they may be okay with you trying some home remedies to help your dog feel better. Always best to double-check with them first, though.
Treating dog ear infections naturally – follow these steps
When you're applying a topical solution to your dog’s ear, the first step is to clean the area to make sure it's free from dirt or debris. This makes it easier for the solution to do its job! After cleaning, you can apply a natural remedy to help with the infection. Here are some home remedies you might want to try:
Tea
Brew some green tea, let it cool, and then use a pure cotton ball (not synthetic) to gently clean the ear. Be careful not to pour the tea directly into the ear, as that could push the debris deeper into the canal.Olive oil
A few drops of olive oil can work wonders as a natural ear cleaner. Just put a few drops in the ear, give it a gentle massage, and then use a cotton ball to wipe away any mess..Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another good cleanser. Dab a cotton ball with it, and mix in a little coconut oil before applying it to your dog’s ear to help clean the infection area.Apple cider vinegar
Mix equal measures of apple cider vinegar and water to create a homemade cleaning solution. This can help fight infection, but don’t use it if the ear tissue is raw or swollen — vinegar can sting. It can help with mild mite infestations, but may not be strong enough for a more serious infection. As always, if you’re ever in doubt about your dog’s ear infection, it’s best to consult with your vet before trying any remedies!
Recovering from natural treatment for dog ear infections
When it comes to treating a dog ear infection naturally, the rate of recovery really depends on how severe the actual infection is.
If it's a bad one, it may take some time for your dog's ear tissues to fully heal. But the good news is, as long as there’s no permanent damage, your dog should be feeling better within a month or so.
Things to consider with dog ear infection remedies at home
While home remedies can be easy to access and apply, some dog owners feel they’re a bit slow to act. And, if they’re not applied properly, the infection or infestation could actually get worse.
For most ear infections, especially if they’re more than just mild, conventional medications may work faster and be more effective.
If you do decide to try treating your dog’s ear infection at home, make sure you’ve armed yourself with as much info as you can. Understand the cause of the infection and the best ways to handle it safely at home.
That said, keeping your dog healthy overall by providing them with a balanced diet and regular exercise is a great way to prevent ear infections from happening in the first place.
Healthy dogs are less likely to experience issues like ear infections, so taking care of their overall well-being is key.
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