What do ear‑mite symptoms look like in dogs? - briefly
Intense itching, dark crusty debris resembling coffee grounds in the ear canal, and a foul odor are the primary signs; dogs often shake their heads or scratch the ears repeatedly.
What do ear‑mite symptoms look like in dogs? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in canines produces a recognizable set of clinical signs. The most common indicator is intense itching, especially when the dog scratches or shakes its head frequently. Excessive ear rubbing against objects or the floor often accompanies the discomfort.
Typical manifestations include:
- Dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds within the ear canal.
- Foul odor emanating from the affected ear.
- Redness, swelling, or ulceration of the ear canal walls.
- Crusting or thickened skin at the entrance of the ear.
- Secondary bacterial or yeast infections, evident by additional discharge or increased irritation.
In severe cases, the ear canal may become narrowed or partially blocked, leading to hearing loss or balance disturbances. Persistent scratching can cause self‑inflicted wounds, increasing the risk of cellulitis. Early detection based on these signs enables prompt treatment, preventing chronic inflammation and permanent damage.