Most cases of infections affecting the middle and inner ear in dogs started as an infection in the outer ear. When cleaning your pet’s ears, you will be unable to see the middle or inner ear because it is separated from the external ear by the ear drum. The middle and inner ear function to coordinate hearing and control balance. Thus, when there are problems in these parts of the ear, symptoms that are manifested is not only loss of hearing but also loss of balance and other neurological problems. If problems are caught early, most can be treated successfully.

A dog suffering from middle and inner ear infection may suffer from pain and may have foul-smelling or bloody ear discharge. He may also be shaking his head and scratching or pawing at the ear persistently. As the infection progresses, the dog may have facial paralysis and inflammation of the facial nerve that runs near the middle ear. Nervous symptoms are eventually manifested include loss of balance, downward tilting of the head, and even circling. Take your pet to your Plano, TX pet clinic for proper diagnosis and treatment. To learn more, click here.