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Dog Yeast Infection



Can you guess the most common dog yeast infection?

Ninety percent of them occur in this spot, so if you reading this because your dog has stumbled across this dog yeast infectionproblem you probably guessed correctly:  dog ear yeast infection.

A yeast infection is a simple skin condition that is caused by Malessezia dermatitis, a fungal infection that forms an excessive build-up of yeast in one particular area of the body.  

Fortunately, there is a perfectly safe and natural cure that will eliminate your dog’s unpleasant symptoms.

How to determine if your dog has a yeast infection

Common causes

Holistic treatments for yeast infections

Preventing future yeast infections in your dog

How to Determine the Presence of a Dog Yeast Infection

Most of us view our dogs as part of the family and feel we know our dogs as well as we know our spouse or child.  If you feel this way, you are already on the right track to determining whether or not your dog is suffering from a dog yeast infection.

What does knowing my dog have to do with diagnosing a dog yeast infection?  Let me give you an example…  

If you know that your dog is usually very dog yeast infectionenergetic and rarely a consistent scratcher then you will probably realize that something is wrong if your dog begins to mope around and scratch her ear frequently.  The better you know and understand your pet, the easier it will be to spot a problem before it becomes too serious.

If you notice a change in your dog, determine if a dog ear yeast infection is the culprit by examining the ear for:
  • Crustiness around the center of the ear
  • Discharge
  • Foul smell
  • Redness
  • Shaking of the head
  • Swelling
Note:  The common symptoms of a dog yeast infection can mimic those of a dog that has contracted ear mites or has something stuck far inside the ear.  Your vet will be able to determine the difference between these issues.

Common behaviors of a dog suffering from a dog yeast infection of the ear:
  • Moping around with noticeably less energy
  • Rubbing the ear on carpet or furniture
  • Scratching the ear excessively
  • Shaking of the head
  • Whining
If you have observed your dog’s strange behavior or symptoms, get him to the vet as soon as possible.  The yeast infection can worsen if it goes un-treated, so the sooner the better for your dog and your brand new oriental rug!

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What are Common Causes of a Dog Yeast Infection of the Ear?

There are a number of possible contributors to yeast growing in the ear of your dog:

Antibiotics:  A dog yeast infection of the ear can be caused by common antibiotics.  Your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic to dog yeast infectiontreat one bacterial infection, and that antibiotic may in turn cause another.  Be wary of this when your vet prescribes an antibiotic and always remember there are usually holistic alternatives.

Dark and Moist growing spots:  Yeast thrives in moist, dark environments, which makes the ears of all our beloved “floppy eared dogs” a perfect growing spot.  If your dog has floppy ears, frequently use a wet wipe or natural ear cleaner to keep them as clean as possible.  

Low Immune System:  In the end, a healthy dog will always have a greater chance at fighting off illness and disease.  It is the same with a dog yeast infection.  Yeast takes advantage of an unhealthy dog that may not have to best diet, exercise and bathing routine.  Give your dog a fighting chance against yeast by keeping them healthy!

Scratched or Wounded:  An ear that has been scratched or wounded is more susceptible to excessive yeast growth.  Check your dog’s ears often for scratches or wounds.  If one is spotted, do your best to keep it clean.
 
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Holistic Treatments for a Dog Yeast Infection

Your first step to treating your dog’s yeast infection is to have it diagnosed by your veterinarian.  If your dog is suffering from ear mites or a particle lodged in the ear, it is important to have that treated by a professional.

If your veterinarian diagnoses your dog’s yeast infection, you are safe to go ahead and try some at-home holistic treatments...  

  1. First, try cleaning the dog’s ear with a diluted white vinegar treatment.   dog yeast infectionDilute the vinegar in water, pour a small amount into the dog’s ear and gently massage the outer part of the ear.  Wipe away any extra that may seep out of the ear canal.  Doing this once a day may help to clear up your dog’s yeast infection and doing so weekly may help to prevent future infections.
  1. There are certain herbs that help cure and prevent the over growth of yeast in the body:  

    • Rosemary and Tea Tree oil work as topical pain relievers dog yeast infectionfor inflammation and as a natural disinfectant for wounds caused by repetitive ear scratching.  
Ear Dr. from PetAlive contains both along with Marigold (good for the skin) and Verbascum Thapsus (commonly used in ear drops to promote ear health).
    • Acidophilus helps promote a healthy balance of flora in the stomach, which will help prevent the overgrowth of yeast in the body.  Acidophilus is found in a pill form and also in yogurt.  
    • Vitamin C is a proven anti-oxidant that can help to regulate the growth of yeast in the body.
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How to Prevent Future Yeast Infections in Your Dog

Follow these tips to help prevent a dog yeast infection of the ear:
  • Keep the ear and the area around the ear as clean as possible.  This can be done by using a dog ear cleaner,dog yeast infection along with baby wipes for everyday use.   Since a dog’s ear canal is L-Shaped (rather than straight as in humans), you can also use a Q-Tip without fear of puncturing the ear drum.

  • Consider using Ear Dr. as mentioned above.  In addition to curing an ear yeast infection, it also works well as a preventive measure.
  • Help your dog maintain a consistent healthy balance will help to prevent yeast infections from occurring.  A healthy, balanced diet along with plenty of exercise and regular vet visit, should do the trick.
  • Keep your dog well groomed.  It will proactively fight against bacterial ear infections.
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For additional research, search our site...





Also see...

    My Online Vet MD to get specific advice from our veterinarians about      your dog

   Other Dog Ear Problems

    Finding the Right Veterinarian

    Pet Insurance Reviews



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