What is ear mite in dogs?

Ear mites in dogs are a common and contagious parasitic infection that can cause severe irritation and discomfort [1]. With timely diagnosis and treatment using the correct medication, such as ear drops or spot-on treatments, the infection can be quickly controlled. Regular checking and cleaning of the ears, combined with preventive measures such as the use of spot-on treatments, are crucial to preventing further infections. Always consult a veterinarian for the correct diagnosis and treatment to avoid complications.

What are the symptoms of ear mites in dogs?

The symptoms of ear mites in dogs can vary, but the most common signs are:

• Itching in the ears: The dog scratches its ears frequently or shakes its head.
• Brown or black earwax: The mites produce a dark, grainy earwax that often resembles coffee grounds.
• Redness and inflammation: The inside of the ear may be red and swollen due to irritation.
• Strong odour from the ear: Inflammation can lead to a foul smell coming from the ear canal.
• Tilting the head: Some dogs tilt their head as a result of the irritation.

It is important to note that ear mites are not always visible without an otoscope, a medical instrument used to look inside the ear. A veterinary comparison of diagnostic methods found that a swab sample examined under a microscope can pick up more cases than otoscopy alone, since mites can be missed when the ear canal is already inflamed [3]. Regular cleaning and checking of the ears can help to detect the presence of ear mites at an early stage.

How can a dog get ear mites?

Dogs can contract ear mites through direct contact with other infected animals, such as dogs, cats or wild animals. The mites can also spread via contaminated surfaces such as bedding, blankets or even brushes. Puppies and young dogs are more susceptible to ear mites, as their immune systems are often still developing. Even well cared for dogs can contract ear mites simply by spending time around infected animals, since direct contact is considered the main route of transmission [2].

Are ear mites contagious to other animals or humans?

Yes, ear mites are highly contagious to other animals, particularly dogs, cats and sometimes even rabbits. Ear mites can be transmitted from animal to animal through direct contact, for example when animals sleep or play together. Veterinary parasitology guidelines recommend treating every dog and cat in the household at the same time, since an untreated pet can simply reinfect the others [6]. Although rare, humans can also contract ear mites, particularly through close contact with infected animals, but this is uncommon and symptoms are usually mild [6].

How do you recognise ear mites in dogs?

Recognising ear mites in dogs starts with observing their behaviour. Many dogs will shake their heads, scratch their ears, and show signs of irritation. The inner part of the ear may appear red and inflamed, and brown earwax may be present, which is a characteristic sign of ear mites. Black earwax resembling coffee grounds is also a key symptom of an ear mite infestation.

What do ear mites look like under a microscope?

Under a microscope, ear mites resemble small, white, spider-like creatures that are in motion. They are difficult to see with the naked eye, which is why a microscopic examination is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis [3].

What is the treatment for ear mites in dogs?

The treatment of ear mites in dogs focuses on eliminating the parasites and relieving the symptoms. Some effective treatment methods are:

1. Ear drops for ear mites

Veterinarians often prescribe medicated ear drops containing an insecticide to kill the ear mites. These drops must be administered into the ear canal daily, following the veterinarian's instructions. Products such as Stronghold and Advocate are often effective against ear mites: in controlled studies, selamectin (the active ingredient in Stronghold) cleared ear mites in around 90% of dogs by day 60 [4], and an imidacloprid plus moxidectin combination (the active ingredients in Advocate) reached 82% clearance by day 56 [5].

2. Spot-on treatments

Spot-on treatments, such as Advocate or Stronghold, are applied to the dog's skin and work systemically to combat parasites, including ear mites. This treatment is convenient as it often only needs to be applied once, though the studies above used repeat applications roughly a month apart to fully clear an infestation [4][5].

3. Ear cleaning

Before administering medication, the ear must be thoroughly cleaned to remove excess earwax and dirt. This helps to increase the effectiveness of the medication. Always use an ear cleaner suitable for dogs and avoid harsh products such as alcohol or vinegar, unless recommended by a veterinarian.

4. Home remedies

Although some home remedies such as olive oil or vinegar are recommended by pet owners, it is important to be cautious. Olive oil can help to suffocate the mites, but it is not a substitute for medicinal treatments. Always consult a veterinarian before using home remedies.

How can I prevent my dog from getting ear mites?

Preventing ear mites in dogs starts with good hygiene and regular ear checks. Here are some preventive measures:

• Regular ear checks and cleaning: Clean your dog's ears weekly to remove dirt and excess earwax.
• Use of preventative treatments: Spot-on treatments such as Stronghold can be administered monthly to prevent parasites, including ear mites.
• Avoid contact with infected animals: Limit your dog's contact with animals you suspect may have ear mites, and if one pet in the household is diagnosed, have every other dog or cat checked too [6].

What happens if ear mites in dogs are left untreated?

If ear mites in dogs are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications. The constant irritation and inflammation can result in a secondary ear infection, which is accompanied by increased pain, pus formation, and even hearing loss [6]. In severe cases, a dog may develop an aural haematoma, sometimes called a "bloody ear," where a blood vessel in the outer ear ruptures due to excessive shaking and scratching [6].

Are there any natural treatments for ear mites in dogs?

Some home remedies may help to relieve ear mites, but they should be used with caution and should never be seen as a substitute for medical treatment. Olive oil is often used to suffocate the ear mites and loosen excess earwax. Vinegar, diluted with water, can be used in some cases to clean the ears, but it may irritate the skin. Always consult a veterinarian before trying natural remedies.

How long does treatment for ear mites in dogs take?

Treatment for ear mites in dogs usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity of the infestation, though clinical studies have followed dogs for up to 60 days to confirm mites were fully cleared [4][5]. It is important to follow the full course of treatment prescribed to ensure that all ear mites and their eggs are killed. Once treatment is complete, a veterinarian can carry out a check-up to confirm that the ear mites have been completely eliminated.

Is ear mite the same as an ear infection in dogs?

Ear mites and ear infections are not the same, but ear mites can lead to an ear infection if left untreated. Ear infections can also be caused by other factors, such as bacteria, yeasts, or allergies. An ear infection caused by ear mites is often accompanied by a dark discharge and intense itching, and mites are estimated to be behind roughly 5 to 10% of otitis externa cases in dogs, with the true share likely higher since mites can be hard to find once a secondary infection has taken hold [6].