The 8 Best Ear Infection Medicines For Dogs

There are three types of ear infections that are common in dogs of any breed, age, or size. These infections can be caused by allergies, bacteria or yeast, foreign bodies, or moisture trapped in the ear canal. If you’ve noticed your dog shaking their head, pawing or scratching at their ear, or if you can see redness inside their ear, it’s likely the start of an ear infection. 

Catching an ear infection early is key to preventing more severe symptoms like hearing loss, balance problems, and uncontrollable eye movements. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, take them to a veterinarian right away. 

It is always best to have your dog evaluated by a licensed veterinarian when possible. However, it’s easy to treat ear infections at home if you catch them early. We’ve compiled a list of the 8 best ear infection medicines for your dog.

Top Picks: The Best Ear Infection Medicines for Dogs Today

#1 Best Overall: Zymox Otic Ear Solution

Zymox Otic Ear Solution was chosen as the best overall for effectiveness, price, and ingredients. The patented L3 Enzyme System is a great substitute for the harsh chemicals often found in similar solutions. It includes hydrocortisone, which provides relief for itchy ears, as well as an advanced formula that cuts down on biofilms that can build up and cause infections.

Rather than a liquid, Zymox Otic Ear Solution is a clear, watery gel. This gives you better control so that you can get the medicine into folds or crevices in your dog’s ear. Additionally, it’s veterinarian strength and doesn’t require pre-washing. It only requires a once-daily application for one to two weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.

This medicine treats fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections. Many customers reported that they saw results within just a few days, but be sure to continue using the medicine as instructed to prevent the infection from returning. In addition, remember that this medication is not meant to treat all ear problems; if you notice your dog’s ears are not clearing up or they are still uncomfortable, be sure to take them to the vet. If the ear infection has progressed this medicine can help with the symptoms but may not solve the problem.

We loved that it’s nontoxic and gentle, and that it’s suitable for dogs (and cats) of all ages. With a gentle formula that won’t sting your dog’s ears, we highly recommend Zymox Otic Ear Solution to treat infection, inflammation, or redness in your dog’s ears.

Pros and Cons of the Zymox Otic Ear Solution

Best Overall

Zymox Otic Dog Ear Infection Treatment

• Great substitute for other products with harsh chemicals
• Hydrocortisone provides itch relief
• No pre-washing required
• Once-daily application
• Gentle formula won't sting ears

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2. Best On A Budget: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy

Between paying for quality dog food, pet insurance, routine vet visits, and plenty of toys (of course), the cost of caring for your pampered pup can add up — which is why we selected Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy for our best budget choice. Its gentle formula won’t harm or irritate your dog’s sensitive ears and has a pleasant and light scent.

It treats bacterial and fungal infections while also helping to deodorize. The bottle has an easy-to-use applicator and is safe for dogs (and cats) 12 weeks and older. It’s alcohol-free and gentle enough for repeated use, making it an excellent choice to treat many problems with one solution. 

This medicine is formulated to promote healthy ear canals and break down buildup. It can help to keep your dog’s ears clear of debris, odors, and itchiness. The formula is pH-balanced and is especially helpful if your dog struggles with allergies or moisture, buildup, or excessive hair growth in their ears. It is also veterinary strength to provide fast relief.

Some customers reported that this medicine cleared up their dog’s issues quickly, within just a few days, but there were a few that said it took several doses. However, be advised that if your dog continues to suffer from ear problems, be sure to take them to the vet. On Chewy you can purchase a single bottle of this medicine. On Amazon, it comes in a pack of three bottles.

Pros and Cons of the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy

Best on a Budget

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy

• Gentle formula won't hurt sensitive ears
• Treats bacterial and fungal infections
• Deodorizes while it works
• Easy-to-use applicator
• For use in dogs 3 months and older

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3. Best for All Ages: Curaseb Dog & Cat Ear Infection Treatment

For its dual use with dogs and cats of all ages, we chose Curaseb Dog & Cat Ear Infection Treatment. This ear flush solution is medicated and has veterinarian strength to combat yeast, bacteria, and fungal infections, as well as wax buildup and ear mites. It’s ideal for regular use after bathtime or when your pet has been swimming.

The gentle formula won’t sting your pet’s ear. Along with treating the infection it also helps combat any smells and discharge and has a cucumber melon scent. However, while most customers reported that they liked the scent, a few said that their dogs did not.

This is a safe and effective choice to treat your furry best friend if they are struggling with ear inflammation, infections, head shaking, and itchiness. In fact, it’s safe enough that you can use it as a routine ear-cleaning solution as well as for treating ear problems.

However, be advised that if your dog’s ear is bleeding, you should not use this product. In addition, it works best in the early stages of an ear infection. If your dog’s infection has progressed, you may need to take them to a vet instead.

Pros and Cons of the Curaseb Dog & Cat Ear Infection Treatment

Best for All Ages

Curaseb Dog Ear Infection Treatment

• Medicated formula combats yeast, bacteria and fungus
• Ideal for use after waterplay/swimming or bathtime
• No stinging
• Fights odor and discharge
• Safe and effective for use on dogs and cats

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4. Best Pump Application: Easotic Otic Suspension for Dogs

Easotic Otic Suspension for Dogs has a unique pump-action nozzle that can help make it easier to administer to dogs who do not like holding still. The long cannula makes it easy to prime and dose the solution into your dog’s ear.

Easotic Otic Suspension is an effective antibiotic used to treat otitis externa in dogs. An otitis externa ear infection is commonly caused by yeast or bacteria, and this medication offers a convenient one-pump form that needs to be given just once a day for five days.

Additionally, most solutions will require a week or more to effectively treat the ear infection whereas this medication treats the infection in five days. It’s an effective antibiotic medication that does require veterinarian approval but it is worth it to cure the uncomfortable side effects of an ear infection. 

Pros and Cons of the Easotic Otic Suspension for Dogs

Best Pump Application

Easotic Otic Suspension for Dogs

• Easy-prime pump
• Easy dosing for otic application
• Treats infections in as little as five days
• Requires a vet to prescribe

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5. Best All-Natural Choice: Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash for Dogs

Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash for Dogs is the perfect choice for health-conscious pet parents who highly value natural remedies. This solution was formulated by veterinarians and is free of dyes, chemicals, or preservatives. The formula contains natural ingredients like chamomile, clove oil, aloe vera, witch hazel, and tea tree oil to clean and soothe with no alcohol or stinging. However, be advised that this product is for dogs and dogs only — it is NOT safe for cats.

It is a natural, alcohol-free solution that breaks down build-up and expels debris, helping to soothe smelly, raw, greasy, or itchy ears. It is also safe enough to use daily to keep ear wax buildups in check. You can feel good knowing you’re providing your dog with a safe and natural solution to effectively remedy their ear infection, along with supporting a company that values effective planted-based solutions for pets.

Pros and Cons of the Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash for Dogs

Best All-Natural

Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash for Dogs

• Natural formula is safe and effective
• Vet-created product
• Free of dyes, chemicals and preservatives
• Alcohol-free
• Breaks up build-up and gets rid of debris
• Non-stinging

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6. Best Drops: MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Tonic w/Aloe for Dogs

We love MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Tonic w/Aloe for Dogs for its ability to improve symptoms within a few treatments. Key natural ingredients not only help address your dog’s ear infection but will also work to prevent future infections.

Organic aloe vera, ginkgo, and mullein help calm both irritation and inflammation and have excellent healing properties. Additionally, marshmallow root and Oregon grape root aid in alleviating skin conditions. This formula is safe to use on all dog breeds and can be used long-term as well.

This medicine also comes with a free e-book on dog ear health. In addition, the company makes a donation to Last Chance Animal Rescue in Southampton, New York for every bottle sold. 

This medicine is quite strong and can sting. Customers reported that their dogs definitely did not like having this medicine put in their ears. Some learned to tolerate it, but there were a few that continued to hate it even after extended use. However, even customers who had dogs in the “hate this medicine” category said that it is well worth it for the relief and fast healing that it provides. Some even went as far as to call it a “miracle tonic.”

Pros and Cons of MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Tonic w/Aloe for Dogs

Best Drops

MISTER BEN'S Original Ear Tonic w/Aloe for Dogs

• Contains soothing aloe
• Fights and prevents infections
• Natural ingredients are safe and effective
• Purchase includes a free e-book on how to heal ear infections

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7. Best Homeopathic: NaturPet Ear Drops for Dogs & Cats

For sensitive ears, a natural approach is a safe way to provide relief, which is why we recommend NaturPet Ear Drops for Dogs & Cats. Formulated with high-quality ingredients, you can have peace of mind with even the most sensitive of pups and holistically soothe your furry best friend. 

This formula includes natural ingredients like olive oil, calendula, aloe vera, vitamin E, basil, and bergamot oil. It’s developed to be gentle enough for even the most delicate pup. These natural ingredients combine to effectively alleviate build-up while also regulating yeast and bacteria. Olive oil helps relieve and hydrate itchy ears, calendula provides strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, and bergamot oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capacities.

NaturPet Ear Drops help to balance your dog’s skin secretions and moisturize dry skin. They also help to loosen wax buildup in your dog’s ears. These drops are great to use before your dog goes swimming. You can also use them for regular ear cleaning.

However, it is important to note that while these drops are great for cleaning your dog’s ears and providing relief, they are not made to cure infections. The main purpose of these ear drops is to help soothe pain and relieve symptoms rather than eradicate the problem.

Pros and Cons of the NaturPet Ear Drops for Dogs & Cats

Best Homeopathic

NaturPet Homeopathic Medicine for Ear Infections

• Homeopathic ingredients include olive oil, calendula, aloe, and vitamin E
• Gentle formula is effective in alleviating build-up
• Gluten- and allergen-free
• Regulate yeast and bacteria
• Hydrating, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients

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8. Best Ear Wipes: Vet’s Best Ear Relief Finger Wipes

Drops, washes, and solutions can be somewhat messy depending on how much your dog may wiggle around when trying to apply, which is why VetWELL Dog Ear Wipes are a great alternative. Conveniently packaged to retain moisture and freshness, these paraben-free wipes contain aloe vera, witch hazel, and tea tree oil.

These pre-moistened wipes are just as safe and effective at deodorizing, clearing build-up, and soothing itchy ears as traditional solutions. Additionally, they’re safe to use regularly to help remove dirt, wax buildup, and discharge from your dog’s ears.

Their single-use design fits over your finger so you can easily and gently wipe the infected ear and dispose of the wipe afterward. This makes it much easier to feel and control how you clean your dog’s ears and helps you to get into the crevices and folds of their ears as well. Many customers reported that their dogs liked the process much better as well!

However, some customers were not pleased with the scent of these wipes (one user described it as an “almost minty-like” smell). In addition, customers reported that the tub of wipes is pretty small. It is also important to note that these wipes are for dogs only and are not made to use with cats. These wipes are also designed to provide relief to your dog’s symptoms and help keep their ears clean. The VetWELL Dog Ear Wipes are not designed to cure infections.

Pros and Cons of the Vet’s Best Ear Relief Finger Wipes

Best Ear Wipes

Vet's Best Ear Relief Finger Dog Wipes

• Mess-free wipes are easy to use
• Paraben-free wipes stay fresh and moist
• Additional natural ingredients include aloe and tea tree oil
• Gentle on ears
• Safe for regular use

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Choosing the Best Medicines to Treat Ear Infections: What to Look For

While there are many different options on the market, you know your dog best and how well they will tolerate treatment. Gauging your dog’s comfort and sensitivities to medication will help narrow down the best option. We’ve mentioned a few considerations below to help make your decision easier for choosing the best medicine to treat your dog’s ear infection. 

• Ingredients
• Application

Let’s look at the following in more detail:

Ingredients

Some ear treatments contain harsh chemicals and depending on your dog’s sensitivities or how much they’ve been scratching at their ear, these can exacerbate the issue. A natural method is always a smart choice when first treating an ear infection. Ingredients like olive oil and aloe vera, which are often found in holistic solutions, will not harm or agitate an inflamed ear. Instead, they will soothe and help moisturize your dog’s ear, which will reduce their need to scratch and cause more damage.

However, if you find a natural approach isn’t fully alleviating your dog’s symptoms, you can look for medicated treatments which can include hydrocortisone to address the itch, and ketoconazole, which is an antifungal and helps combat infection. Once you understand the ingredients you can effectively select the best ear infection treatment for your dog. 

Application

To cure an ear infection you’ll have choices like washes, solutions, drops, and wipes. While they may all sound similar they each have their differences, which can impact the experience and effectiveness for your dog. Drops and wipes are often gentle and contain natural ingredients, making them best for more sensitive ears. Washes and solutions will require massaging the product into your dog’s ear for a deeper cleanse and are often medicated or may require veterinarian approval. Understanding the various applications will help you find the best and safest choice for your pup.

The Different Types of Medicines for Ear Infections: Pros and Cons Compared

We’ve looked at the different types of medicines to cure your dog’s ear infection so you can confidently choose the best option for your pup. If the first option doesn’t solve your dog’s ear infection you can review the other applications below to find the next viable treatment. 

• Drops: These are usually made with high-quality, natural ingredients and are applied with a dropper directly into your dog’s ear. Be sure to read the instructions; drops are often to be used daily for up to two weeks. Some options can also be used regularly to keep your dog’s ears free of wax buildup and debris. 
• Solution: These are usually medicated and require you to fill the solution in your dog’s ear, gently massage it, and remove any excess solution once finished. Treatment usually lasts for one to two weeks. 
• Wash: An ear wash may be medicated or natural. These medicines require you to fill the wash in your dog’s ear, gently massage for 30 seconds or more, and then wipe any remaining solution and debris away. Treatment usually lasts for one to two weeks and can be made a part of your weekly routine to help prevent future infections.  
• Wipes: Often made with simple, natural ingredients, wipes help to gently and effectively clean your dog’s ear. They can be round, shaped to fit around your finger, or square-shaped. Wipes are pre-moistened and intended for single use without any required excess clean-up afterward. They are safe to use once or twice weekly to help keep your dog’s ears clean.