Symptoms of a Perforated Eardrum in Dogs: Signs & Treatment

The puppies you bring home rely on you to spot health issues early, including ear problems like a perforated eardrum. This delicate membrane inside your dog’s ear separates the outer ear from the middle and inner parts, and though protected deep in the ear canal, it can suffer damage, causing pain and hearing loss. Recognising the symptoms quickly can make a significant difference to your pet’s comfort and recovery.

This guide covers the role of the eardrum, common causes and symptoms of perforation, and crucial steps you should take to help your dog heal properly. If you suspect your dog has this condition, prompt veterinary advice is essential.

Understanding the Eardrum and Its Importance

The eardrum (tympanic membrane) functions like a tiny but vital sound-transmitting drum. It vibrates when sound waves enter the ear canal, sending signals to the middle ear bones and then to the brain. The eardrum also helps keep the middle and inner ear protected from infection and injury. Despite this, it is vulnerable to rupture or perforation due to several causes in dogs.

Common causes of eardrum perforation include:

• Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure, such as during air travel or water pressure changes
• Middle ear infections (otitis media), which are frequent in dogs and can cause inflammation and rupture
• Exposure to very loud noises, especially close-range explosions or gunfire
• Direct physical damage from inserting objects like cotton buds or sticks into the ear
  
• Exposure to toxins or chemicals that damage ear tissue
• Foreign bodies like grass seeds or insects penetrating the ear canal and injuring the eardrum

Signs and Symptoms of a Perforated Eardrum in Dogs

A dog with a ruptured eardrum typically shows a range of tell-tale signs:

1. Ear Pain and Discomfort

Your dog may yelp or cry when the ear area is touched, paw or rub the affected ear, or try to shake their head frequently to relieve irritation. They might avoid having their head or ears handled due to pain.

2. Discharge from the Ear

In cases caused by infection, you may notice pus-like, bloody, or watery discharge from the ear canal. This discharge results from infection leaking through the perforation.

3. Hearing Loss

The dog may seem less responsive to sounds on the affected side or appear confused by noises. Hearing loss might not be immediately obvious without close observation, so watch for behaviour changes.

4. Balance and Coordination Problems

The inner ear plays a role in maintaining balance, so a perforation affecting the middle or inner ear can cause your dog to tilt its head, stumble, or be unsteady on their feet.

5. Neurological Symptoms

In some serious cases, facial nerves passing through the middle ear might be affected, causing involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), difficulty blinking, or drooping of facial features on the affected side. These are signs to get urgent veterinary attention.

Why Prompt Veterinary Care is Crucial

If you suspect your dog has a perforated eardrum, seek veterinary examination without delay. Your vet will use an otoscope to look inside the ear and confirm the diagnosis, assessing how extensive the damage is. They will also check for any underlying infections or foreign items lodged in the ear canal.

Never attempt to insert anything into your dog's ear or apply medication without your vet's guidance. Over-the-counter ear drops or home remedies can worsen the injury or cause additional pain.

Treatment and Recovery Expectations

For perforations caused by infections, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed to clear the infection. Anti-inflammatory pain relief and supportive care may also be provided to ease discomfort and inflammation.

Most eardrum perforations in dogs heal within three to four weeks with appropriate treatment and care. During recovery, regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor healing progress and avoid complications, such as chronic infection or permanent hearing damage.

Protecting your dog’s ear during this time by preventing water from entering and avoiding further trauma is important. Your vet might recommend additional measures such as ear cleaning or limiting certain activities.

Promoting Responsible Dog Care and Welfare

Early recognition and treatment of ear problems like eardrum perforations reflect responsible pet ownership. Ensuring your dog's ears are checked regularly, especially if they are prone to infections or if you observe any unusual signs, can prevent severe complications.

When acquiring a puppy or adult dog, always use reputable breeders or adoption centres to ensure your pet's health and wellbeing from the start. Avoid risky behaviours like inserting foreign objects into the ear or exposing your dog to loud noises or harmful chemicals.

Common Questions About Perforated Eardrum in Dogs

How long does a dog’s ruptured eardrum take to heal?

Quick Answer: A dog’s perforated eardrum usually heals within three to four weeks with proper veterinary care.

Healing times may vary depending on the severity of the rupture and if secondary infections are present. Your vet will monitor the ear during treatment to ensure it is healing correctly and may recommend protective measures to avoid re-injury during the recovery period.

Can a perforated eardrum lead to permanent deafness?

Quick Answer: Yes, if untreated, a perforated eardrum can cause permanent hearing loss due to damage and infections spreading to deeper parts of the ear.

Prompt treatment significantly reduces the risk of permanent damage. Keeping up with veterinary appointments, following medication instructions, and protecting the ear from further trauma or contamination are essential to preserving your dog’s hearing.

Is it safe to clean a dog’s ear if they have ear infections?

Quick Answer: Cleaning a dog's ear with vet-approved methods during an infection can be helpful but should only be done under veterinary direction to avoid worsening a perforated eardrum.

Improper cleaning or use of inappropriate products can damage the delicate eardrum or ear canal further. Always consult your vet first before cleaning or administering any medication to your dog's ear.

References: Carroll County Animal Hospital, Matthews Veterinary Hospital, Animal Friends Dermatology, FirstVet Pet Care[1][3][4][5].