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My dog has frequent ear infections. What causes them? How to prevent?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 8 months old | 54 lbs

Our 2 year old mutt has been getting ear infections pretty often now. Our vet says it's just something some dogs get and to bring him back when he starts scratching his ear again. In the last year we have been in 4 times for this. Is there something we can do to prevent it?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2018

Recurrent ear infections are often a sign of food allergies. I suggest you get a second opinion from another veterinarian. Recurrent ear infections are NOT normal and not just something some dogs get. It is important, in this case, that your vet does an ear swab, checks that under the microscope or sends it in to a lab to check which bacteria or fungi are causing these infections. It may be necessary to also check for antibiotic resistance. A diet trial with hypoallergenic diet may also be in order.

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