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Dog Yeast InfectionCan 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  problem 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 Preventing future yeast infections in your dog Also see Other Dog Ear Infections How to Determine the Presence of a Dog Yeast InfectionMost 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  energetic 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:
Common behaviors of a dog suffering from a dog yeast infection of the ear:
(back to top) 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  treat 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. (back to top) Holistic Treatments for a Dog Yeast InfectionYour 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 holistic treatments.
How to Prevent Future Yeast Infections in Your DogFollow these tips to help prevent a dog yeast infection of the ear:
(back to top) Also see Other Dog Ear Infections Back to Illnesses & Remedies from Dog Yeast Infection
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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.
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.
