There are three types of ear infection in dogs, the outer ear infection, middle ear infection, and the inner ear infection.  The symptoms are usually characterized by inflammation and a foul-smelling wax discharge.

Both the middle ear and inner ear are regarded to be more severe than outer ear infection.  These types of ear concerns in dogs require the help of a veterinarian because the condition can easily get worse and are often not curable unless specialist treatment is carried out.

Some ear infections are caused by mites which are easy to diagnose and cure with a microscopice smear of the ear wax. Chronic ear infections make dogs miserable and smelly and even though it gets improved with treatment it can keep coming back.  The ear tissue will sometimes change to become thicker, spongier, and more productive...secreting large amounts of inflammatory glaze and goo.

If the look and smell of the ear and the history indicate a possible yeast infection, it may be treated aggressively with Chlorhexidine 4% followed by clotramizole ointment or other medications that kill yeast.

About 20% of dogs with frequent ear inflammation and infections have underlying food allergies.  Your vet may recommend a therapeutic test diet to find out if your pet is allergic to certain foods.  It's important to do these food trials correctly ... not just switch brands.

If the pet's ear is obviously infected and no mites are found, and it is thought that allergies and secondary yeast infections are not a major factor, the treatment is pretty straight forward:  The vet will generally prescribe a soothing ear cleaner, possibly containing a topical steroid and an antibiotic. Please note that some antiseptics and antibiotics common in many liquid ear medications can occasionally cause harm.to the ear, especially if the ear drum is not intact, which is why it is important for the vet to give your dogs ear a thorough examination with an otoscope 'before' commencing any treatment.