Skin Irritation/Scabs

Question
Hi Trisha.  My 5 year old Lab/German Shorthair mix has recently developed a white scabby feeling area on the top and underside of one of his ears.  At first it looked like another animal had partially bitten through the ear, but there has been no blood, and it doesn't appear to bother him. I noticed this evening that the scabby area appears to be spreading.  He's not itching, and it does not appear to bother him when I touch it.  Any ideas on what this could be?
Thank you so much,
Paige

Answer
Hi Paige :-)

This sounds like it's caused by a yeast or bacterial infection in the ear. It is most likely a yeast infection because these seem to spread from the Dogs ear to other areas of the body.

Because of this you will need to make a Vet appointment and have your Dog examined as soon as possible. I would ask your Vet for a skin scrapping Analysis to see what is going on and to make sure it is nothing more serious.

Unfortunately there is no home treatments available for a yeast infection. Vetinary treatment is the only option.

Meanwhile I would wash your Dogs ear with cold water 2 times a day and avoid putting any water into his ear canal.

You will need to make a appointment as soon as possible because yeast skin infections in the ear can quickly spread to the inner ear and become a ear infection which can be stubborn to treat in some instances.

Take care and all the best and please leave me a comment.

Trisha x