Natural Ear Mite Treatment Options For Dogs

Ear mites can be a very uncomfortable and irritating problem for dogs. Fortunately, there are several natural treatment options available that can help to alleviate your pet’s discomfort. Here are some of the natural ear mite treatment options for dogs that you can use to help keep your dog free of ear mites.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for treating ear mites in dogs. It can be used either topically or as an oral supplement. When used topically, dilute the vinegar with water, then use an eyedropper to gently squirt it into your dog’s ear canal. Massage the area around the ear and allow it to soak in for several minutes before wiping away any excess liquid.

As an oral supplement, you can add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water or food once a day for several weeks. This helps to restore the pH balance in your pet’s body which makes it inhospitable for ear mites to live. Apple cider vinegar also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight off ear mite infections.

OLIVE OIL

Olive oil acts as a lubricant that helps to smother the mites and clean out the affected area. All you need to do is warm up the olive oil slightly and put a few drops in your pet’s ear. Massage gently into the area, then let it sit for five minutes before wiping it away with a cotton ball. Do this several times a day for several weeks, or until the mites are gone. Be sure to use pure olive oil that hasn’t been adulterated with other chemicals, as these could be harmful to your pet’s ears.

COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil works by helping to loosen ear wax and debris, as well as killing off mites. To apply, take some coconut oil and warm it up until it’s melted. Using a dropper, put a few drops of the coconut oil into your dog’s ear canal, then massage the base of their ear for several minutes. Once finished, use a cotton ball or piece of gauze to gently clean any excess out of their ear.

GARLIC

Garlic contains a powerful anti-inflammatory compound known as Allicin, which helps reduce inflammation and itching. Garlic also has a strong antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it effective against bacteria that can cause ear mites.

To use garlic as a natural ear mite treatment for your dog, you can mash up garlic cloves into a paste and rub it onto the affected area. Alternatively, you can add garlic to your dog’s food, as it is safe for them to ingest.

TEA TREE OIL

Tea tree oil has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties which make it an ideal treatment for ear mites. To use tea tree oil, mix 10 drops of tea tree oil into a quarter cup of warm water. Using a dropper, apply the mixture directly to your dog’s affected ear and gently massage it into its skin. Do this twice a day for two weeks. Always remember to dilute essential oils before applying them to your pet’s skin.

GOLDENSEAL

Goldenseal, a native herb of North America, has natural antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties, making it a great choice for treating ear mites in dogs. It’s also known for its ability to help treat skin infections. To treat ear mites with goldenseal, you can steep the herb in hot water and create a poultice. Then, apply the poultice to your dog’s ear.

Alternatively, you can mix goldenseal powder into olive oil and gently massage the mixture into your dog’s ears. However, it is important to note that goldenseal is toxic if ingested, so be sure to avoid applying it internally or near your dog’s mouth. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian before using this treatment option to ensure that it is safe for your pet.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary is an effective natural remedy for treating ear mites in dogs. It contains compounds that can kill and repel the parasites, making it a great option for home treatment. Rosemary can be applied directly to the ear by making an herbal oil infusion. Simply fill a small bowl with fresh rosemary leaves, pour enough olive oil over it to cover, and then warm the mixture in a pot of boiling water. Once it’s cooled down, strain out the rosemary leaves, and then apply the oil directly to your dog’s ears with a dropper or cotton ball. Repeat this process two to three times a week until the mites are gone. Additionally, you can add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to your dog’s shampoo to further help fight off the parasites.

CHICKWEED

Chickweed is a common herb that can be found growing in most yards and gardens. It has long been used to treat various ailments including ear mites in dogs. It is known to reduce inflammation and itching and can help to soothe the skin. To use chickweed as an ear mite treatment, make a tea out of the fresh herb or dried powder by boiling 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of water. Let the mixture cool down and then use an eye dropper to place 3-4 drops of the solution into your dog’s ear canal. Massage the outside of the ear to help spread the solution, and then allow your dog to shake their head. Repeat this treatment 2-3 times daily until the mites are gone.

MULLEIN

Mullein is a popular herb that has been used for centuries to treat ear mites in dogs. It contains several compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the ears caused by mites. The herb also has natural astringent qualities that can help to reduce swelling and soothe discomfort. To use mullein as a treatment, you can make an infusion by steeping the dried flowers and leaves in hot water. Allow the infusion to cool before straining it and adding it to the affected ear. Leave it in for about 10 minutes, then flush the ear with warm water to remove any remaining residue. Alternatively, you can purchase a premade mullein extract or tincture from your local health food store and apply it directly to the ear.

CONCLUSION

When it comes to treating ear mites in your pet, natural remedies may be the best option. Apple cider vinegar, olive oil, coconut oil, garlic, tea tree oil, goldenseal, rosemary, chickweed, and mullein are all natural solutions that can help your dog get relief from the irritation caused by ear mites. Always check with your veterinarian before using any of these treatments to ensure they are safe for your pet. As with any treatment, always follow the instructions and monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort or allergic reaction.