How to Treat and Prevent a French Bulldog Ear Infection
Ear infection in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs is common. It is primarily due to the breed’s inherently abnormal narrow ear canal, amplified with selective breeding.
French Bulldog Ear Infection Key Takeaways
Bulldogs are prone to ear infections due to their narrow ear canal and allergies.
It can be observed that they experience difficulties in upward cell migration as well as wax transcription, which can lead to adverse effects.
If preventative measures and appropriate treatment are not taken in the early stages. In that case, the narrowing of the ear can eventually become irreversible and reach the end stage.
Daily ear rinsing and wiping can help prevent infections and potentially end-stage severe ear diseases.
According to the Australian National Kennel Council, registered French bulldogs in Australia have increased by 850% in the last 20 years. It’s pretty easy to see why. Their giant pointy ears and adorable big eyes make them one of the super cute brachycephalic breeds.
Knowing the symptoms and causes of a French bulldog’s ear infection and proper treatment can help prevent earaches and discomfort for your furry friend.
Causes and Symptoms of a French Bulldog Ear Infection
Ear infections typically happen when the shape of your dog’s ear creates a warm, moist environment where bacteria can quickly grow. And as you know, Fench bulldog ears can be particularly prone to such ailments.1
An ear infection in dogs can be caused by
Various bacteria types
Fungus
A small, typically benign growth known as a polyp
A tumor
A foreign body that’s gotten into your pup’s ear
Ear mites can cause ear infections in French bulldogs, especially young puppies. Identifying the exact cause of the ear problem is crucial in determining the most effective treatment. Suppose you suspect that your dog has an ear infection. In that case, taking them to a local veterinarian who can help you diagnose the issue and suggest the best course of action is advisable. Look out for symptoms such as:
Head scratching and shaking – If your dog’s ear hurts from an ear infection, they may try shaking their head or scratching their ear to relieve the pain.
Unpleasant odor – Red, inflamed ears can sometimes cause dog ear smells and unpleasant odors.
Discharge – Some dogs’ ears may reveal their infection through a yellowish or black ear discharge.
Crusty or thickened ear canals – If your pup tends to develop recurrent ear infections, its ear canals may become thicker and more crusted due to chronic inflammation.
Suppose your dog appears to be dealing with one or more of these symptoms. In that case, it’s probably worth contacting a vet.
Treating an Ear Infection
Your vet will likely inspect your pup’s ears to determine the type of infection. They’ll typically try to determine:2
Whether or not the eardrum is intact, they can identify which medications they can use safely without damaging your pet’s hearing.
Whether there’s any foreign objects lodged in your dog’s ear canal that’s causing or exacerbating the infection
The type of organism causing the infection can be specified by extracting a sample from your dog’s ear and examining it under a microscope.
If your dog has an ear infection, the cause may be due to multiple factors, so the vet may suggest a combination of treatment plans. For instance, the vet may remove a foreign object, such as a piece of grass, from your dog’s ear and advise you to flush your dog’s ear with an appropriate antimicrobial ear rinse until the infection is gone.
In severe cases, chronic ear infections in dogs may require surgery to modify the ear’s shape to reduce the risk of future infections. However, most ear infections are treated with ear cleaners and medication prescribed by a vet.
Suppose your vet prescribes medication or an ear-cleaning product. In that case, they can demonstrate the best method to apply it to your French bulldog’s ears. They usually advise you to:
Gently lift the end of your pet’s ear flap.
Apply a small amount of medication to the infected inner ear canal.
Continue to elevate the end of your pet’s ear flap until the medication runs down to the juncture between the horizontal and vertical ear canals.
Delicately massage the base of the ear flap to work the medication in.
Use a cotton ball soaked in the medication to clean out the inside of the ear flap and the outer part of the ear canal.
Once that’s finished, you can release your dog’s ear flap. Don’t be surprised if they want to shake it—ear cleaner can sometimes feel odd, especially if it’s their first use.
Tips for Preventing an Ear Infection
As dog owners to prevent future French bulldog ear infections, consider cleaning your dog’s ears every two weeks or as often as your vet recommends.
Using an antimicrobial ear rinse can help by:
Removing foreign materials from the ear
Alleviating irritations
Keeping your dog’s ears clean and free from harmful bacteria
In addition to implementing a regular cleaning schedule, you may also want to clean your dog’s ears every time they get wet. To avoid French Bulldog health issues, a little extra cleaning could go a long way in keeping your pup healthier longer.
FAQs
What causes French Bulldogs to be prone to ear problems?
French Bulldogs' floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for infections like otitis externa.
What are the signs of an ear infection in French Bulldogs?
Watch for symptoms like head shaking, scratching, foul odor, redness, or discharge in the affected ear.
What are the different types of ear infections seen in French Bulldogs?
French Bulldogs may suffer from an outer ear infection (otitis externa) or inner ear infections (otitis media/interna).
How do untreated ear infections in French Bulldogs worsen?
Neglected ear infections can escalate, leading to severe issues like facial paralysis or affecting blood vessels in the ear.
What's the best way to handle a French Bulldog's ear infection?
Seek prompt veterinary care for appropriate medication or treatments tailored to the specific infection type.
Can foreign material cause French Bulldog ear infections?
Yes, foreign bodies like dirt or plant material may cause infections and should be removed by a vet.
Are there underlying conditions linked to French Bulldog ear infections?
An Underlying cause like allergies or structural ear shape might predispose French Bulldogs to recurring infections.
What medications are typically used for treating French Bulldog ear infections?
Treatment may involve oral medications, anti-inflammatory medications, or ear drops, based on the infection type.
Is total ear canal ablation a common solution for severe ear infections in French Bulldogs?
In severe cases, total ear canal ablation might be recommended to alleviate chronic issues.
How does the shape of a French Bulldog's ear canal contribute to ear infections?
The breed's ear shape and structure can make them prone to infections due to poor air circulation and moisture retention.
