Kaan Mein Dard! (Ear Pain!): Why You Must Never Ignore Your Dog’s Earache👂

If your dog is scratching their ears or shaking their head a lot, pay close attention! Otitis Externa (the medical term for outer ear infection) is one of the most common reasons dogs are rushed to the vet.

It is a painful, irritating condition that can quickly become serious and compromise your dog’s happiness. The earlier you spot the signs, the easier and faster the cure!

The Signs: When Your Dog Says, “My Ear Hurts!”

Since your dog can’t tell you about the pain, their body language speaks volumes. Look out for these signs that their ear (kaan) is in trouble:

• Head Shaking: Constant, vigorous shaking of the head, as if trying to get water out.
• Scratching: persistent, aggressive scratching at the base of the ear.
• Pain/Reluctance: They whine or pull away when you touch their ears or head.
• Smell: You notice an unpleasant, sour, or foul odour coming from the ear.
• Discharge: sticky, black, or yellowish-brown wax/discharge in the ear canal.
• Redness & Swelling: The flap of the ear or the entrance to the canal looks red, swollen, or inflamed.

If you notice any slight discomfort or persistent scratching, please assume it’s a problem and get it checked.

The Complicated Causes: Why It Keeps Coming Back

An ear infection is rarely simple. It’s usually caused by a primary problem, which is then made worse by other factors:

Once the ear is inflamed, secondary bacteria and yeast (fungal) naturally living in the ear multiply uncontrollably. This is why the problem often seems to clear up, then comes back with a vengeance!

The Golden Rule: Why You Must Act Immediately

We know it’s just an ear issue, but delaying treatment is a huge mistake.

• Vicious Cycle: The longer the infection lasts, the more the lining of the ear canal thickens and swells. This thickening blocks airflow, making the environment even more favourable for bacteria to grow. The ear gets sicker and sicker.
• Severe Complications: If the outer ear infection is not treated, it can travel deeper into the middle and inner ear (Otitis Media). This is extremely painful, can affect balance, and sometimes requires complicated and expensive surgery to fix.

Don’t wait! When you see the signs, a quick visit to the vet for a check and simple drops is all it takes. This simple vigilance prevents pain and saves you future worry and cost.