Have you seen your dog shaking their head or scratching their ears excessively? They might have parasites. While there are many types of ear infections, parasitic infestations like ear mites can be treated at home using readily available supplies. I share my top three home remedies for ear mites in dogs but it is always wise to consult your vet before treating on your own.
What Are Ear Mites?
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Ear mites, or Otedectes cynotis, are microscopic parasites that commonly live in the ears of dogs, cats, and other animals. While invisible to the naked eye, you can see the discharge that forms in the ear when mites are present. You’ll notice deposits resembling dried coffee grounds in the ear canal.
How Do Dogs Get Ear Mites?
Ear mites may be passed from animal to animal, especially after coming in contact at places like the groomer, park, or animal shelter. Mites may also transfer from infested surfaces, such as bedding or toys.
Symptoms Of Ear Mites
Are you wondering if your dog has ear mites or just dirty ears? A good indicator that your pet is affected is if they shake their head and scratch their ears frequently. You may notice that your pup’s ear canal also looks red or inflamed.
Signs of an ear mite infestation include:
- Dark, dry, crumbly discharge from ears
- Head shaking
- Scratching ears
- A rash in or around the ear
Did You Know?
Pet insurance covers the vet exam and treatment for ear mites, including antiparasitic medication. And because ear mites are curable, some insurers cover them even if your dog has been diagnosed before the policy’s effective date. Pet insurance is a great option if your dog suffers from chronic ear issues, as it can help cover the treatment cost and other health conditions.
Ear Mites vs Yeast Ear Infection
So your dog has been shaking their head and scratching their ears. These actions could also be a sign of a yeast infection. So which is it?
Yeast infections are much more common in dogs than ear mites, but to properly determine what type of infection your pup has, you need to swab their ear. Grab a cotton swab and insert it into the ear canal, making sure not to insert it too far. Swab the ear debris and inspect. If the swab is coated in a black, waxy material with a slightly sweet smell, it’s likely yeast. Our article on treating dog ear infections without a vet covers remedies for yeast and fungal infections. If the debris is black, firm, and crusted, your dog has ear mites—a parasitic infection. Choose one dog ear mite home treatments below.
How To Get Rid Of Ear Mites In Dogs
Depending on the severity of this parasitic infection, you may be able to treat ear mites at home—and save yourself a vet bill (but don’t forget to check with your vet before self-treating). Once you have cleaned your dog’s ears, try one of the following natural remedies for ear mites in dogs.
1. Oil Treatment
Try an oil treatment for an easy home cure for ear mites in dogs. To start, grab an oil. Good options include almond, castor, corn, or olive oil. Put 1/2 dropper-full in each ear and massage the ear canal so that you hear a fluid sound. Let your dog shake their head once you’ve done this for a minute. Then, gently clean the ear opening with cotton swabs to remove excess oil and debris.
The oil will smother many of the mites and make the ears less hospitable. Repeat this process several times a day for up to six weeks.
2. Vitamin E
Raid your medicine cabinet for vitamin E softgels. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that also fights infections and promotes healing. Mix 1/2 ounce carrier oil with 400 IU vitamin E (from the punctured softgel). Add these ingredients to a dropper bottle and follow the same steps as above for an oil treatment.
3. Yellow Dock
The herb yellow dock has been used traditionally as a natural remedy against parasites. To make an herbal decoction—the preferred method for preparing the tougher parts of plants like roots, bark, and seeds—add 1 teaspoon of dried yellow dock root to 1 cup of water to your pot on the stove. Simmer for approximately 20 minutes. Then, strain the liquid, leaving the solid root behind.
Once cooled, apply this brew to your dog’s ears using the same technique as the oil above. Repeat this process every three days for three to four weeks. You can also use this decoction as a rinse after washing your pup’s coat to ensure there are no mites hanging out on the outside of the ears, waiting to crawl back in later.
Prevention
Follow these practices and prevention tips to avoid mites and keep your dog in tip-top health:
- Keep your dog away from other pets until you know they are free of ear mites.
- Check for mites during adoption or rescue.
- Keep your dog’s ears, coat, and skin clean.
- Wash your pet’s bedding regularly.
- Maintain your pup’s healthy diet.
Supporting your pet’s immunity will aid in both prevention and recovery from a parasitic infection. Nutrition plays a critical role in immunological response, but some supplements can bolster your pet’s immunity. Popular choices for dogs’ immune support and infection prevention include probiotics, colloidal silver, and herbal blends.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many common questions regarding the topic of ear mites in dogs. We’ve answered a few of these inquiries below. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments.
What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of Ear Mites In Dogs?
So you’re wondering what kills mites on dogs instantly. While home remedies for ear mites in dogs are great for an accessible, budget-friendly approach, the fastest approach will be a prescription topical antiparasitic or oral medication. Selamectin (brand names: Revolution, Paradyne, Stronghold, Chanhold) is an avermectin antiparasitic used as a topical parasite treatment in pets. This medication should reach full effectiveness within the first week of application.
Do Ear Mites Need Antibiotics?
Treating ear mites locally is typically an effective solution to ear mite infestations; however, an ear mite infection may lead to a secondary bacterial infection, which may require antibiotics. Talk to your veterinarian for additional support.
Is Hydrogen Peroxide Good For Dog Ear Mites?
Don’t use hydrogen peroxide on your pup’s ears. This product can irritate your dog’s skin and even damage the ear. Instead, try one of our recommended home remedies for ear mites in dogs.
What To Use To Clean Dogs’ Ears (Home Remedies)
One of the best ways to keep your pet free from ear mites is to check and clean their ears regularly. Our guide on how to clean dogs’ ears includes directions, product recommendations, tips, and more.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Tara is part of the Canine Journal team, which has over a decade of experience researching, testing, and writing about anything and everything dog-related. She also has 8+ years of experience in the wellness industry, with experience in pet nutrition and supplementation. For this article, Tara spent 3 hours researching and writing to provide everything you need to know about home cures for ear mites in dogs.