What are the main causes of canine ear problems ? Most veterinarians will agree that the most common underlying causes of ear problems in dogs are allergic reactions (inhalant and food allergies).  Pollen and molds which cause hay fever symptoms in people are the principal causes of skin and ear problems in canines. Canine immune systems change during the years and they may also react to ingredients in kibble, even after eating the same food since puppyhood. Alternative reasons for ear infections include foreign objects ( fur) that have become lodged in the ear, ear mites, polyps , and tumors within the ear canal. In certain dog breeds, the ear canal becomes thickened or mineralized and once this takes place, surgery may be needed to relieve chronic pain. Some PONS tend to get dirty ears which don't smell as bad as infections, but require cleaning on a weekly or even daily basis.

When you have pinpointed the main cause of your PON'S ear problems with the guidance of your veterinarian, and have found the problem is caused by allergies, you have a number of choices. You can put your dog on those so-called special kibble foods and still have problems (or not), or you can switch over to a  home crafted diet. If your PON has inhalant allergies, you may have to take the decision to use antihistamines or other natural remedies. Most important, these ear problems need to be solved because if the ear canal remains inflamed and infected for a long time, the infection may move across the eardrum to the middle ear.

Make an appointment with your veterinarian and work together to find alternative solutions to improve the health of your PON'S ears. In some cases, you may have to do further research on your own in order to solve this painful problem.