Ear Infections In Bull Terriers: Causes And Remedies

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Time to read 4 min

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Bull Terriers are vulnerable to ear infections because of the shape of their ear canal. An ear infection is an irritating and painful overgrowth of bacteria or yeasts inside the ear.

The good news is that in many cases, with a little effort on your part, you can prevent your Bull Terrier from developing an ear infection. Without proper care, ear infections often lead to a chronic, painful, and often irreversible external ear canal disease.

Why is cleaning your dog's ears important?

The inner portion of your Bull Terrier’s ear should be pink, clean, and healthy.

It prevents ear problems that may be caused by a build-up of dirt, debris, or foreign materials.

Regular ear cleaning helps to avoid infections.

The structure of the Bull Terrier’s ear canal makes it tough for trapped dirt, debris, or foreign material to be expelled without the assistance of a dog ear cleaner.

Symptoms of ear problems in Bull Terriers

Bull Terriers with ear problems might show the following symptoms:

  • Itchiness 
  • Whining
  • Excessive scratching
  • Head tilt or shaking
  • Unpleasant odor
  • Excessive wax buildup
  • Redness and swelling
  • Discharge

Occasionally, Bull Terriers can experience balance issues. If your Bull Terrier is showing any of these symptoms, consult with your vet before cleaning. Your dog may have a chronic ear infection.

Causes of Ear Infections in Bull Terriers

In the world of Bull Terriers, ear discomfort can stem from various sources. Moisture, allergies, thyroid imbalances, and parasites all play a role in triggering itchiness linked to ear infections. This section delves into these factors, shedding light on potential internal issues affecting these beloved canines.


Moisture

Bacteria can easily grow in moist conditions and can lead to an ear infection. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to the growth of bacteria.

Allergies and Food sensitivities

Dogs are prone to a variety of allergies. They may be allergic to pollen, molds, certain foods, and dog shampoos that may lead to itching and ear infection.

Thyroid disease

This is a common hormonal imbalance in dogs caused by a disorder of the thyroid gland.

Parasites

Sometimes, parasites such as mites can penetrate the ear canal of your canines and cause itching. However, this is relatively uncommon in Bull Terriers.


Bull Terriers' ear problems might hint at deeper internal health issues, like whispers of underlying concerns. This connection underscores the importance of holistic care, addressing both surface symptoms and potential hidden imbalances for their overall well-being.

Ear infection remedies

Bull Terrier ear infections require vet treatment and medication in order to restore a healthy ear canal. Fortunately, there are straightforward steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and minimize the severity of ear infections in your Bull Terrier.

Most uncomplicated ear infections in Bull Terriers resolve within 1–2 weeks, once appropriate treatment begins. However, severe infections or those due to underlying conditions may take more time to resolve.

Your vet may need to test the ear debris or perform scans of your Bull Terrier’s ear to choose the appropriate treatment. Therapy will likely consist of multiple elements that may include topical, oral, or surgical therapies. It is important to follow your vet’s instructions closely. Always finish the full course of the medication, even if your pet seems to be feeling better.

Ear care tips

Keeping your Bull Terriers’ ears clean is an important part of their grooming and care routine. A healthy and clean dog ear looks pink, odorless, and not dirty or inflamed. You can take the following steps to maintain your Bull Terrier’s ear health:

  • When you groom your Bull Terrier, have a look inside their ears. Check for allergies, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin.
  • Once a week, check and clean your Bull Terrier's ears with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. 
  • Your Bull Terrier’s ears should smell good with no exceptional amount of wax.
  • Thoroughly dry your Bull Terrier’s ears after swimming or bathing.
  • Avoid using paper towels for ear cleaning as they may leave fibers behind and cause itching.
  • If your Bull Terrier suffers from a chronic yeast infection, give them a grain-free diet. Grains contain natural sugars that contribute to yeast overgrowth. 
  • Feed your Bull Terrier a natural diet to boost their immune system and provide full nutrition.
  • Avoid feeding processed dog food to your dog as they contain toxic chemical preservatives and have a bad effect on the Bull Terrier’s body.
  • Don't try to overclean your dog's ears. It may irritate your Bull Terrier's ear canal and can lead to infection. A certain amount of natural wax is beneficial for their ear protection.
  • Contact your vet if you suspect your Bull Terrier has a hearing problem or ear infection.

How do I clean my Bull Terrier's ears?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can expertly clean your Bull Terrier's ears to ensure their well-being: Follow these instructions carefully to maintain their ear hygiene and prevent potential discomfort or infections.


Dogs don't usually get so thrilled with the ear-cleaning performance. You need to teach your fur buddy to stay calm by showing affection and saying praise words. Don't make a big deal about your Bull Terrier’s ear cleaning.

  • Take a dog wipe and wipe the upper part of your dog’s ears.
  • Gently open your Bull Terrier’s ear canal and massage the inside of the ear with the cotton ball. Use a cotton ball soaked in a good dog ear cleaner solution.
  • Look inside your Bull Terrier's ears with a flashlight. Examine carefully if there is any dirt or debris.
  • Use a soft towel to gently dry off your Bull Terrier's ear.
  • Avoid cotton-tipped swabs and anything with a pointed tip. This may lead to trauma to the inner structures of the ear itself.


Make the ear-cleaning process a positive experience for your Bull Terrier. Treats and praises are always appreciated after ear cleaning!

Final thoughts

Ear cleaning is a vital part of your Bull Terrier’s grooming routine. Your dog’s ears should have no exceptional amount of wax and they should smell good. 

An ear infection is a common and often recurrent problem in many dogs. You can keep your Bull Terrier’s ears healthy by regular examination of cleaning. If your Bull Terrier is showing any symptoms of an ear problem, seek treatment to ensure the issue does not become severe.