My Dog's Ear Sounds Like It Has Water in It: A Comprehensive Guide

Dogs can't actually swim with water in their ears, but they can get moisture trapped inside, which can cause discomfort and affect their hearing.

This trapped moisture can come from various sources, such as swimming, bathing, or even just humidity in the air.

Ear infections are a common issue when moisture gets trapped in the ear canal, and symptoms can include redness, swelling, and a strong odor.

The ear canal is a narrow, winding tube that's prone to moisture accumulation, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, it's essential to seek veterinary attention to prevent further complications.

Ear infections in dogs are more common than you'd think, with approximately 20% of canines contracting some form of ear disease. This can be due to various factors, including bacterial or yeast overgrowth, allergies, and ear anatomy.

Certain breeds with long floppy ears or hairy ones are more vulnerable to ear infections, as these ears can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for yeast growth or bacterial infections. I've seen this firsthand with my own dog, who has floppy ears and is prone to ear infections after swimming.

The causes of ear infections can be broken down into several categories, including:

These factors can contribute to ear infections in different ways, and understanding them can help you and your veterinarian develop an effective treatment plan.

There are three types of ear infections in dogs.

One of the most common types is the outer ear infection, which affects the outer ear canal.

This type can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or a combination of both.

Another type is the middle ear infection, which affects the eardrum and the bones in the middle ear.

This type can be caused by a foreign object stuck in the ear, a bacterial or viral infection, or an ear mite infestation.

The third type is the inner ear infection, which affects the inner ear and the balance system.

Dogs with floppy ears or hairy ears are more prone to ear infections due to trapped moisture and debris. This can create an environment ideal for yeast growth or bacterial infection.

Approximately 20% of canines contract some form of ear disease, making it a relatively common issue. Bacterial or yeast overgrowth is a significant contributor to ear infections, often caused by an imbalance in the ear's environment.

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Ear trauma or injury can damage the skin or ear canal, heightening susceptibility to infection. This can be due to overzealous cleaning, excessive scratching, or foreign objects.

Underlying conditions like hormonal imbalances, skin disorders, or autoimmune diseases can debilitate the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to ear infections. Ear mites or parasites can also cause ear irritation, paving the way for subsequent infection.

Here are some common causes of dog ear infections:

Allergies can also contribute to ear infections, particularly in dogs prone to food-related or environmental allergies. These allergies can trigger inflammation and escalate the production of wax and oils in the ear, creating an environment conducive to infection.

A veterinarian will visually assess your dog's ears, looking for signs of inflammation, redness, swelling, discharge, or any other anomalies.

This inspection will also help identify if your dog is showing signs of distress or discomfort.

The veterinarian may collect a sample of the ear discharge or debris to examine under a microscope, a process called ear cytology.

This helps identify the presence of bacteria, yeast, or other microorganisms that could be causing the infection.

A thorough examination by a veterinarian is the first step in diagnosing a dog ear infection, and it's essential to get a professional opinion to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying a dog's ear infection as quickly as possible generally entails a detailed physical assessment and targeted diagnostic tests.

Veterinarians employ a variety of techniques to diagnose dog ear infections, including a detailed physical assessment.

A physical examination of your dog's ears can help identify signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge.

Your veterinarian may also use targeted diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of an ear infection.

These tests can include a microscopic examination of a sample of ear discharge to identify the presence of bacteria or yeast.

If your dog's ear sounds like it has water in it, it's likely due to an ear infection, especially if they have floppy ears. Ear infections can be quite uncomfortable and painful for dogs.

Treating the underlying cause is crucial to prevent recurring infections. This might involve managing allergies, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune disorders through dietary changes, medication, or other interventions.

A veterinary professional should guide the treatment process, and it's essential to follow their instructions carefully and complete the entire medication course, even if symptoms seem to improve. Failing to do so can lead to a recurrence or worsening of the infection.

Ear infections can lead to severe complications, including chronic otitis, if left untreated.

Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent ear infections in dogs. Use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleanser and follow proper cleaning techniques to remove excess wax and debris.

Dry your dog's ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming, as moisture can contribute to developing ear infections. This is especially important for dogs with floppy ears.

Allergies, such as food or environmental allergies, can contribute to ear infections. If your dog has known allergies, work with your veterinarian to manage them effectively and minimize the risk of ear infections.

Trimming your dog's ear hair can help prevent ear infections. However, avoid using Q-tips, as they are not safe for use in a dog's ears.

Related reading: Vinegar and Water for Dogs Ears

Here are some steps you can take to help keep water out of your dog's ears:

Regular ear cleaning sessions can help keep canine ear infections at bay. Start with monthly ear cleaning sessions, unless your dog has daily "mud visits", in which case you may need to clean their ears more frequently.

If your dog shows signs of discomfort, it's time to consult your veterinarian. Some symptoms of an ear infection include bad odor, swelling in or around the ears, an off-color discharge, or your dog winces in pain when you try to touch their ears.

Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to ear infections due to their anatomy. If your dog has floppy ears, be extra cautious.

If you suspect water got stuck in your dog's ears and they haven't cleared up after a couple of days, you'll need to get them cleaned out to avoid infection. This is especially true for dogs with a history of ear infections, skin issues, or other ear problems.

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You may also notice a nasty discharge from their ears or a foul smell coming from them. If you notice these symptoms, it's best to consult your veterinarian.

The safest option is to find a commercial ear-cleaning product specifically designed for removing water from a dog's ears. However, if you suspect an ear infection, it's always best to consult your veterinarian.

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