My dog has chronic ear infections. Could food allergies be the cause?

Question

Afghan Hound. 2 years old. My dog continually have ear infections. He is been more than 5 times at the vet office in one rear period. He eats basmati , chicken breast and dry food. mixed twice a day. Every time he goes to the vet, he gets a gel in his ears, antibiotics and a shot (steroid). he is on epoquel now, but I don't see improvement. (Second month) he caught and having trouble to breath at times (wonder if is epoquel causing it) please advice. Pet's info: Dog | Greyhound | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 3 months old | 58 lbs

Sarah Box, BVSc · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear of Princeton's ongoing war issues. If you are concerned about possible medication side effects I would recommend discussing this with your regular veterinarian. I would also discuss with them the possibility of food allergies. Chronic/recurrent ear infections like you are dealing with for Princeton can often be secondary for a food allergy, a diet change may be what is needed for him. When considering a new food remember that the protein source is typically the thing that causes the allergy-look at Princeton's current dry food to see what the protein source is. You will need to look for a food with a protein source he has not been exposed to (remember that the chicken you feed mixed with his food is a potential allergen as well). Your vet can discuss any particular brands or products they recommend, and be aware that a food trial for allergies can take 6-8 weeks before any effect is seen. Also talk to your vet about culturing the material in Princeton's ears, if you haven't already. Sometimes the yeast or bacteria that is present becomes resistant. A culture will show what type of organism is present, and what medication is going to be most effective. Your vet can then help you tailor a new treatment plan to try and resolve the issue. I also recommend routine ear cleaning at home using a cleaning solution recommended by your vet. Keeping the ears clean of debris can help reduce the number of infections. Good luck-I hope you are able to get Princeton feeling better soon!

My dog has chronic ear infections. Could food allergies be the cause?

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