Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/27/2005

Question
My dog has small sores inside her ears that appear like they possibly might be bug bites. Sophie spends periods of time chained up outside (MN). She is part Sheperd/Husky/Border Collie. I've noticed lately that I have what I initially thought to be fruit flies in my house. I recently brought home several new plants. Now I'm wondering in these little flies are from the plants, and if these are what are bothering Sophie's ears. Also Sophie has had several dermatology problems in the past, so this may not be bug bites at all.

I also have two cats that do not have any problems with their ears. They do have a lot of hair inside their ears where Sophie doesn't have any. They do not go outside at all.

Answer
At this time of year, bug bites would be unusual.  If she is scratching at her ear, she can make sores. If she has other skin problems, she may have pustules in the ear.  I would recommend that you have your vet look at the ears to be sure as to what these are.