Long ear flaps trap heat and moisture.
Like most dogs with long ears, beagles are prone to getting ear infections. The ears create the ideal moist environment for pests, fungi and bacteria to grow.
Symptoms
The signs of an ear infection in a beagle include excessive earwax or black discharge, red ears or swelling round the ear, repetitive head motion, ear scratching and head tilting.
Mites
Ear mites are a common affliction. They look like black or brown build-up in the ear. If left unchecked, the mites spread to other parts of the body. Young dogs are more susceptible.
Other Considerations
Ear infections can be a sign of fungi or bacterial growth, genetic protrusions, auto immune diseases, allergies and hair or other foreign matter.
Diagnosis
The area most commonly infected is around the outer ear. A vet may take blood and other samples to determine the cause of the problem. For most ear infestations like mites, the vet will prescribe an ointment. If common infections are left untreated, they can spread to the middle and inner ear; at that point, surgery may be necessary.
Prevention
Owners of beagles often ensure that the ears remain as dry and clean as possible.
Related posts
Dog Food & Ear InfectionsIs your dog scratching her ears? Shaking her head? Does she have a sour, yeasty smell? She could be one of the two out of five dogs who suffer from chronic, recurring...
Beagles are known for their distinct howl.The beagle dog breed has been around for over 500 years. Beagle dogs are a loving, energetic and loyal breed. According to the American Kennel Club Regist...
A dog may develop a secondary, bacterial, infection to a yeast infection.Dogs can develop internal or skin infections from contact with yeast or bacteria. While yeast infections are not contagious...
Beagles are popular family pets.Beagles are compact little hounds, bred to hunt rabbit and other small game in packs. Beagles have a distinctive loud bay and rambunctious spirit. Their love of lif...
Upper respiratory infections are contagious to dogs that haven't had proper vaccinations.A URI or Upper Respiratory Infection is an infection in the upper respiratory tract, which includes the tra...
