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Why is my dog's ear still hurting after months of treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | unneutered

My dog Bailey has a really sore ear. He keeps shaking his head to the side where his ear hurts and his ear twitches. He used to cry in pain, too. He has a treatment for his ear but the problem is not ending and I don't think it is working. This problem has been ongoing for several months now, and I have even consulted a vet before. Yet, he is still in extreme pain. Is there anything we can do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on April 18th, 2017

Poor Bailey - it is vital he is seen by a vet again as soon as possible to have the condition reassessed. Ensure he is fasting as it may be necessary to sedate him in order to fully examine the ear and identify any infections or growths which may be present and to ensure a deep clean can be performed. In some cases further tests for underlying causes such as allergies or thyroid disease may be recommended and in very rare cases surgery is required to remove or bypass areas with permanent scarring which may be preventing the normal healing process. Regular, routine cleaning of ears each week is recommended for dogs with recurrent problems

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I'm sorry Bailey is having such troubles with his ear! I'm not sure what treatment has been done on his ear, the last time he saw a vet, or if any tests have been done on his ear. Ear infections in dogs can be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria. In order to treat it correctly, the cause has to be diagnosed. I recommend having Bailey seen by a vet again for this today or tomorrow. Ear cytology should be done to help identify what is causing his ear problems. Once the cause is diagnosed, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. Unfortunately however, some ear infections are very difficulty to treat and some dogs will have ongoing issues with ear infection without resolution. There is an option for treatment in that case called a total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy (TECA LBO). This involves removing the outer ear canal. It will completely cure ear infections for good in that ear, but it does leave the dog deaf. This may not be an option at this point in time, but if Bailey continues to have problems, it may be something to consider.

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