Strays Anatomy

How common are ear infections in dogs?

Infection of the external ear canal by bacteria or yeast are one of the most common types of infections seen in dogs. We call this otitis externa.

Some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles, seem more prone to ear infections, but they may occur in any breed.

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

A dog with an ear infection is uncomfortable, its ear canals are sensitive. It shakes its head trying to get the debris and fluid out, and it scratches its ears. The ears often become red and inflamed and develop an offensive odor. A  black or yellowish discharge commonly occurs.

Don’t these symptoms usually suggest ear mites?

Ear mites can cause several of these symptoms, including a black discharge, scratching and head shaking. However, ear mite infections generally occur most commonly in puppies. Ear mites in adult dogs occur most frequently after a puppy carrying mites is introduced into the household.  Sometimes ear mites will create an environment within the ear canal which leads to a secondary  infection with bacteria and yeast (fungus). By the time the dog is presented to the veterinarian , the mites may be gone, but a significant ear infection remains.

Abyssinian
Psychogenic alopecia and dermatitis
Follicular dysplasia

Afghan Hound
Hypothyroidism

Airedale Terrier
Flank alopecia

Akita
Hypothyroidism
Pemphigus
Post-clipping alopecia
Sebaceous adenitis
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) (more…)

BACKGROUND

    The Cocker Spaniel featured prominently both as working dogs and pets through the reign of Henry VIII and the Stuart kings, being referred to as "wood-cocking spaniels" - small dogs that could go through hedges and the undergrowth to flush out the woodcock.

    The beginning of this century saw the formation of the Cocker Spaniel Club of England which drew up the early standard of the breed for shooters who needed a small, active, strong dog, sturdy enough to work cheerfully and tirelessly all day flushing out game.

AVERAGE LIFESPAN

    These devoted and lovable dogs will normally live to 14 years of age but treated with the care they deserve and fed a sound diet, Cocker Spaniels can live up to 16 years.

AVERAGE SIZE & WEIGHT

    These dogs in their prime condition should be 14kg and 38cm tall for the female and 15kg and 41cm tall for the male.
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