Generalized demodectic mange is often a sign of underlying internal disease or a hereditary problem. Ear mites cause severe irritation in the ears. Often, an affected dog will scratch the hair off the back of its ears. Ticks, lice and fleas may transmit other diseases, in addition to causing irritation. A skin scraping test is always performed to aid in identifying parasites.
Ear mites, which are barely visible to the naked eye, appear as small white objects.
The black debris commonly seen in the ears of dogs with ear mites is a combination of dried blood, normal ear wax and discharges from inflammation. Lice, fleas and ticks can also be seen by close examination of the dog's skin. Antimite dips are often necessary and may be used weekly or biweekly for several months. Shampoos can be sued before each dip. The dog's eyes should be protected with mineral oil or eye ointment and the ears plugged with cotton before dipping.