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Dog Ear Mites

Ear mites are more common in cats than in dogs, but some dogs, especially those with a weakened immune system, do get them.

Mites are parasites and, for your dog to have them, it must have had direct contact with another pet infested with the parasites. Mite infestation may cause outer ear infection in dogs.

As in many other dog illnesses, mite infestation is largely due to low immunities in the dogs. Dogs with a properly functioning immune system are less likely to be bothered by mites.

It follows that, to take care of the root problem of mite infestation, we should:

get rid of the mites by cleaning out the ears; and more importantly,

strengthen the dog's immune system.

Common Symptoms of Dog Ear Mites

Excessive scratching of the affected ear

Dark brown crumbly wax in the affected ear

Head shaking

Pain, sensitive, sometimes swollen ear

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Herbal Remedies for Dog Ear Mites

Herbs are effective in cleaning the ears and getting rid of the mites. Here are some useful herbs that you can try to use:

Yellow Dock

A tea of yellow dock is effective in treating this dog ear problem. Add one teaspoon of the dry herb of yellow dock to half a cup of boiling water. After the tea has cooled down, strain it and pour the liquid into a bottle and place about half a dropperful of the tea into the ears, twice a day.

Oregano

Make an oregano oil by adding 1/2 teaspoon of oregano to 1/2 oz. of olive oil. Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth. Apply about half a dropperful of the strained oil into the ears, twice daily.

Mullein and Garlic

The antimicrobial and antiviral properties of mullein make it an excellent herb for treating ear infections caused by mites in dogs. Garlic is antibiotic; when used in combination with mullein, it is also effective for treating ear problems.

Here is a simple way of making a mullein and garlic herbal remedy for ear mites:

Combine equal parts of mullein oil and garlic oil
Add 10-20 drops of olive oil or vitamin E to every one oz. of the mullein/garlic oil mixture.

Apply this remedy to the ear canal of your dog and gently massage the dog ear.

Oregon Grape

The strong antibiotic and antibacterial properties of Oregon grape makes it an effective herb for treating ear infections or mites. Use an oil infusion of the herb. Apply 1-10 drops at a time in each ear one to two times a day until the infection is gone.

Homeopathy for Ear Mites

Homeopathic remedies can also be used effectively to treat mites. If you want to use homeopathic treatment, ask a holistic vet about the use of Apis, Pulsatilla, Sulphur or Silicea.

An Effective Homeopathic Product for Ear Mites

Newton Homeopathics Ear Relief
This homeopathic remedy contains Apis, Pulsatilla, Echinacea, etc. and is effective in relieving symptoms of ear mites, minor ear infection, redness, swelling, and pain.

Home Remedies to Strengthen the Immune System

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can be given internally to help the immune system clear up ear infections caused by mites.

For small dogs, 125 mg twice daily
For medium dogs, 250 mg twice daily
For large dogs, up to 1,000 mg twice daily - decrease dosage if dog has diarrhea

Apple Cidar Vinegar

Alternatively, you can add a splash of organic apple cidar vinegar in the dog's drinking water.

Echinacea

Echinacea tablets, tea, or tincture can be given to your dog to strengthen her immune system.

See also our page on Dog Ear Infections for other herbal ear wash remedies for dog ear infections.

References

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
Pitcairn & Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).

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