Otitis externa in cocker spaniels: causes, symptoms & care

The cocker spaniel’s long, floppy ears are one of their most obvious and endearing features, but they also mean dogs of this breed are more prone to developing otitis externa. This common inflammatory ear condition requires careful attention and management to prevent discomfort and serious complications.

If you own a cocker spaniel or are thinking of finding one, this guide explains the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies to help you care for your pet responsibly.

More about the cocker spaniel

The cocker spaniel is the UK’s most popular spaniel breed and ranks as the sixth most popular dog breed overall. Originally bred as gundogs, they now exist in two main types: show strains and working strains. All have the characteristic long, drooping ears that, while charming, contribute to their increased risk for ear problems.

Their pendulous ears limit air circulation and have numerous wax-producing glands, which can cause wax build-up and, when inflamed, a narrowing of the ear canal. This anatomy predisposes them to otitis externa, making regular ear care essential.

What is otitis externa?

Otitis externa refers to inflammation of the external ear canal. Dogs with floppy ears like cocker spaniels are particularly susceptible because the limited airflow and trapped moisture create an ideal environment for infections and irritation.

Causes include ear mites, allergies, skin conditions such as seborrhoea, foreign bodies like grass seeds, chemical irritants, bacterial and yeast overgrowth, and hormonal diseases like hypothyroidism. Environmental factors like heat and humidity also play a role.

Cocker spaniels and otitis externa: causes and risk factors

Cocker spaniels’ ears are prone to wax accumulation and irritation due to their anatomy. This can lead to inflammatory reactions, often perpetuated by excessive bacterial and yeast growth.

Breed anatomy, environmental factors such as hot humid weather, and grooming habits (plucking ear hair can cause trauma) increase the risk. Chronic inflammation may lead to stenosis of the ear canal and even involvement of the middle ear, resulting in more severe symptoms.

Symptoms to watch out for

Common signs your cocker spaniel may have otitis externa include:

• Frequent head shaking and excessive scratching of the ears
• Rubbing ears or head against objects
• Avoidance of having the head or ears touched
• Inflammation visible inside the ear canal, with redness and swelling
• Smelly, dirty ears with discharge that may be yellow, brown, or pus-like
• Scaly skin, crusting or ulcerations on the ear flap or canal in severe cases
• Signs of pain or discomfort such as whimpering or irritability

How otitis externa is diagnosed and treated

Diagnosing otitis externa involves a physical examination by your vet, who may examine your dog’s ear canal with an otoscope and collect samples to identify bacteria, yeast, or mites.

Treatment centres on resolving the underlying cause and controlling infection and inflammation. This usually involves topical ear cleansers, antimicrobial or antifungal ear drops, and sometimes systemic medications like antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or pain relief, especially in severe or chronic cases.

Infections caused by mites or fleas require appropriate parasite treatment alongside ear care. Your vet will advise against cotton buds or inserting objects into the ear, as this can cause further damage.

Preventing otitis externa in your cocker spaniel

• Inspect your dog’s ears daily, lifting the ears to check for cleanliness and signs of infection.
• Clean ears gently as needed with vet-approved ear cleansing solutions.
• Keep ears dry, especially after walks or baths, to prevent moisture build-up.
• Consider trimming long hair inside the ears to reduce trapping of debris and moisture.
• Ensure your dog is on a regular, effective flea and mite preventative.
• After outdoor activities, particularly during summer, check for foreign bodies like grass seeds that can lodge in ears and cause inflammation.

Responsible ownership and early intervention are key to managing otitis externa effectively. Regular vet check-ups and prompt attention to ear symptoms will help maintain your cocker spaniel’s comfort and wellbeing.