It’s not uncommon for bird dogs to get an ear infection in fact it’s a result of the size and depth of their ears. Because hunting dogs (gun dogs) spend so much time outdoors and have large, floppy ears, they are actually more prone to getting an ear infection. Infections in the ear are a result of yeast or bacteria which can grow in your dogs’ ear and eventually may wind up in the ear canal.

Symptoms of Otitis
Not only are ear infections painful, in extreme cases they may actually lead to your dog becoming deaf. There are some symptoms that you can be on the lookout for – some are basic behaviors of dogs that have ear infections while others are clinical symptoms. You should be aware if:

Your dog has any discharge from their ears which is heavily colored
Your dogs; ears begin to emit a strong, foul odor
Your dog begins to scratch his ears or shake his head excessively

These early signs can get worse and becoming a serious infection. Once the infection begins to creep deeper into your dog’s ear, it will get into the inner ear and begin affecting your dog’s ability to keep his balance and to hear:

Disorientation
Falling down or an awkward “drunken” gate
Loss of hearing
Unusual eye movements or “crazy eye”

As soon as you’ve noticed something wrong, take your dog to a veterinarian. The faster you treat the infection, the easier it will be to care for it and the less it will cost you in money and your dog in pain.

Your veterinarian can find the problem by utilizing a special scope to observe the infection, and sometimes, a cotton swab may be use to get a sample. Ear mites and other diseases can have the same symptoms of otitis, so they must be ruled out before treatment can begin.

Treating Ostitis
Usually the infection is treated with a medication. Sometimes it’s as simple as hydrogen peroxide poured into the ear regularly or it will involve a prescription medication for more serious infections. Sometimes antibiotics are also prescribed to lessen the other affects of the infection. A thorough ear cleaning will be done at the vet’s office and then your regular treatments with medication will be done at home.

The treatment for most ear infections will mean that you’ll have to place the medication in your dogs’ ear and that is most likely going to mean that you’re going to need a second set of hands. The dog isn’t going to be particularly happy with any treatment, but it’s critical that the treatment be completed per your veterinarians’ instructions. Don’t forget to talk soothingly to your dog during treatments, it will help him relax.

Watch your dog carefully. Even after the infection is “cured,” it can come back again and dogs never become immune to it. Remember: the earlier you catch it, the easier it will be to take care of it.

Keep in mind that not only is health issues important with your hunting dog, but the type of hunting dog supplies you get from your dogs are just as important. Make sure to do your research and take your time when you decide to purchase something such as a dog training collar.