Systemic allergies often cause dermatitis and itching in the ear canal, which predispose self-trauma and subsequent ear infection. Hypothyroidism may manifest itself as increased thickness of the skin and continual release of exudate in the ear canal, which favors an environment for otitis externa. Practicing Proper Ear Care Proper ear care for the dog can often prevent recurring infection. Dogs with a history of ear disease require routine cleaning of the canals. I recommend plucking all hair that grows in the canal.
Hair impedes air flow into the canal that tends to keep the canal dry.
Common household tweezers or forceps work well and usually are well tolerated by the dog. Be careful not to grasp the skin of the canal. After hair removal, flush the ear canals with a commercial ear cleaner. These products can be found at most veterinarian clinics or pet shops. After flushing, gently massage the base of the ears to distribute the solution around the normal ear folds.