Lab with ear infection

[huntingvet]

Yeast infections in dogs can be a frustrating issue to manage. Labradors have increased cerumen and sebum secretions in the skin and ears - that is why they are great water dogs because they have a partial water barrier in their coats. However, this increased cerumen secretion in their ears predisposes them to overgrowth of normal yeast and bacteria.

Ear cleaners with acetic acid and boric acid have been shown to be very good in management of yeast infections. Duck hunters have known this for years and have been making home made varieties with vinegar. There are commercially prepared formulations that may have nicer fragrances, may be milder for the ear canal, and may have increased effectiveness.

The frequency of ear cleaning varies from dog to dog. I would recommend at least after every water episode (bathing, swimming) and every 1-2 weeks for maintenance. Over cleaning the ears is similar to overbathing and may actually contribute to the problem

The bottom line is you will have to stay on top of it to prevent complications. Good luck