Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 4/21/2006

Question
Hello,

I took my schnoodle to be groomed. (She was well overdue and thus, hairy). On my way out the door, the groomer told me that it looked like my dog had an ear infection. When I expressed surprise upon hearing this, the groomer responded that maybe it was just because she had so much hair in her ears and I should keep an eye on it.

Do I have cause for concern? My dog is acting normal in every way. What should I be looking for?

Thank you.

Answer
If the groomer suspects an ear infection, then let your vet look in the ears to see if there is a problem. Groomers are pretty experienced in picking up ear problems. Sometimes there is just wax and hair so you may not detect much.  Sometimes the ear is a little red or thickened and that may give you a tip about an ear infection.