30 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Suffer From Ear Infections – Country Living

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Including Labradoodles and Basset Hounds
Labradoodles, Basset Hounds and Border Collies are among the dog breeds most likely to suffer from ear infections, researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) have found.
According to their analysis of 22,000 dogs, breeds with floppy and long ears are at much higher risk of infection compared to dogs with pointy ears, due to dirt and bacteria becoming trapped more easily. While ear infections affect most pups, certain breeds are more susceptible to inner ear infections than others due to overbreeding.
Elsewhere in their study, scientists found that 7.3% of dogs had suffered from ear infections, with other breeds including Boxers, Labrador Retrievers and West Highland White Terriers.
“Humans invented dog breeds with all sorts of extreme body shapes over a hundred years ago. But it is only now that we are fully realising just how much these body shapes affect the health of these breeds,” Dr Dan O’Neill, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC, told MailOnline.

“This study explores the health issues associated with floppy ears in dogs that many people find so appealing but the results may prompt us all to question whether we have gone too far in our quest for variety in how our dogs look. Avoiding breeds with extreme body shape is a conversation everyone should now have before deciding which breed to purchase.”
Some of the tell-tale signs your dog has an ear infection includes redness, swelling, smelly discharge from the ear, shaking heads or swelling in the ear flap. If you do think your furry friend is suffering, always head to your vet. It’s a very painful problem that needs prompt treatment.
Take a look at the full list of breeds below…
Keep your pup warm on your next winter’s walk with this adorable mini Barbour dog coat. Constructed in medium weight waxed cotton for robust water resistance and protection from rough terrain, this stylish dog coat features lightweight wadding for extra warmth. 
Give your furry friend somewhere warm to hide with this gorgeous house-shaped kennel made from rattan. 
In bright red, this toy is ideal for dogs who like to chew while also playing. Perfect for keeping aggressive chewers occupied. 
In gorgeous grey, this comfortable dog bed is perfect for pups to curl up on. 
READ MORE: 10 look-alike dog breeds that are hard to tell apart
Give your dog something to chew on with this fun orange ball. It’s the perfect stocking filler for your pup. 
Buzzing with bees, this khaki-hued small dog bed is the perfect place for pooches to recline on. Will you get it for your pup this Christmas? 
Want to treat your pup to something luxurious this Christmas? Aesop’s animal range includes this gentle fur cleanser for pampered pets. 
In a smart grey, this ceramic pet bowl is available in two sizes for furry friends big and small. The minimalistic design will complement every interior scheme. 
We love this smart plain black dog lead, which has been crafted from real leather and brass. It’s a must-have for every pooch. 
Treat your pup to this stylish personalised dog bandana. Made from 100% cotton, it has a sweet all-over tartan print. 
We love this navy quilted jacket, perfect for keeping your four-legged friends warm. 
Treat your puppy to this treat selection from Lily’s Kitchen. Featuring an array of delicious snacks, it has everything to help them stay healthy and strong. 
This luxurious bed from Barbour has a waxed cotton outer and a classic tartan cotton lining. 
READ MORE: Barbour’s heartwarming Christmas advert is based on the true story of a cheeky Dachshund
Keep dog treats tucked neatly away with this beautiful thistle green tin. It has a natural bamboo lid with a silicone seal to ensure biscuits stay fresher for longer. 
This gorgeous personalised dog stocking is such a lovely way to include your pet in the all-important Christmas traditions. Fill with their favourites treats. 
This smiley green turtle might look cute, but he is double stitched with an extra thick black lining, making him very tough and durable. Perfect to keep active pups entertained for hours. 
Who says perfume is just for humans? Well, Barbour’s dog cologne helps to refresh and soothe your pet’s skin while also helping them to smell fresh.  
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