What does a Yorkie look like with ticks in its ears? - briefly
A Yorkie infested with ear ticks displays small, dark parasites clinging to the inner canal, usually with noticeable redness, swelling, and crusty debris around the ear opening. The surrounding fur often looks matted, and the dog may frequently scratch or shake its head.
What does a Yorkie look like with ticks in its ears? - in detail
A Yorkshire Terrier suffering from ear parasites presents several unmistakable visual cues. The small, erect ears, normally smooth and glossy, become mottled with dark, elongated specks that range from the size of a pinhead to a few millimeters in length. These organisms cling to the inner surface of the ear canal, often visible as tiny, reddish‑brown or black ovals when the ear is gently pulled back.
The surrounding skin may appear reddened or inflamed, occasionally swelling enough to distort the ear’s natural shape. In many cases, a thin, yellowish crust forms along the ear margin, indicating the accumulation of debris and secretions. A fine, watery discharge may be present, sometimes tinged with blood if the infestation has caused irritation or scratching.
Behavioral signs accompany the visual changes. The dog may frequently shake its head, tilt it to one side, or scratch at the ears with its hind legs. These actions can exacerbate the inflammation, leading to further discoloration and potential secondary infection.
Key identifiers:
- Dark, oval or elongated parasites visible on the inner ear surface.
- Redness, swelling, or crusting of the ear skin.
- Watery or blood‑tinged discharge.
- Frequent head shaking, ear tilting, and scratching.
Recognition of these characteristics enables prompt veterinary assessment and treatment, preventing the progression of discomfort and possible ear canal damage.