Ointment for a Red, Swollen, Dry Ear Flap
by Maria
(Carolina)
Reader Question
My golden Retriever has swelling, dryness, and redness in one ear, according to the picture of the dog´s ear I think it is located in the pinna and the auricular cartilage, what ointment do you recommend? she also has a similar problem in her foot as it shows in the picture, she is always licking it. We have taken her several times to the vet, but I will not like to give her anymore oral medicines. Thanks in anticipation for your help
Answer from Our Team
Redness, swelling and dryness of the ear flap, along with licking a paw, often points to an allergy, sometimes with a yeast or bacterial infection on top. A swollen, fluid-filled flap can also be an aural hematoma from head shaking.
There isn't one ointment we can recommend without knowing the cause. Ask your vet to check the ear canal as well as the flap, and to look at a skin or ear swab. Many dogs do well with topical treatments rather than more oral medicine once the cause is known. Long-term, ask about allergy control.
See treating dog ear infections and allergies in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
