From their cute snorts to protruding eyes and ever-adorable waddle, flat-faced dogs are becoming increasingly popular due to their charm and jovial dispositions. In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, French bulldogs have recently ascended to the rank of the most favored dog breed in the United States.
Nevertheless, the very physical traits that render these pets charming also serve as a trigger for various ear-related complications.
Dr. Christina Gentry, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, sheds light on why brachycephalic, or flat-faced, dog breeds may encounter ear difficulties and the available treatment options.
Distinct Anatomy
Brachycephalic literally translates to “short-headed” and describes cute, flat-faced dog breeds like pugs, bulldogs, boxers, and Shih Tzus.
Accompanying their cuteness is a significant list of health-related concerns that owners should be mindful of when taking on the responsibility of caring for a brachycephalic dog.
Gentry mentions that these breeds typically have narrower ear canals than dogs with conventionally proportioned faces, meaning their ear canals often taper at the base.
Flat-faced canines are particularly susceptible to middle ear effusion (MEE), which is the buildup of fluid in the middle ear space.
“This tapered design can lock in bacteria (and earwax) toward the bottom, which, in some instances, may enable that bacteria to penetrate the eardrum and invade the middle ear cavity,” Gentry explained. “The short facial structure and round head result in a minor adjustment in the positioning of the middle ear, making these issues more prevalent in these breeds.”
Bacteria entering the middle ear cavity either through the eardrum or from an upper respiratory infection can lead to a condition identified as middle ear disease or an infection of the middle ear.
“In these breeds, an infection within the middle ear cavity concerns me because their middle ear is situated very close to their charming little brains,” Gentry remarked. “We want to prevent an infection from spreading.”
Another condition posing a significant risk for these breeds is middle ear effusion (MEE), or fluid accumulation in the middle ear space.
“When their Eustachian tube becomes blocked—either due to a respiratory infection or because of the anatomical peculiarities we observe in these flat-faced dogs—the usual small quantities of fluid that your middle ear produces can’t escape; they just accumulate over time,” Gentry stated.
Disorienting Changes
Whether caused by a middle ear infection or MEE, issues within the middle ear can lead to a variety of distressing symptoms.
Given that several key nerves run closely alongside the middle ear cavity, dogs with these conditions may experience nausea and dizziness.
If these middle ear issues are not identified and managed promptly, they may also lead to other symptoms, including:
- Problems with balance
- Head tilt
- Alterations in eye movement
- Facial nerve paralysis (difficulty blinking)
“Without the ability to blink, if the condition persists, these dogs risk developing severe eye ulcers and may need to see an ophthalmologist,” Gentry noted. “I have encountered patients that have lost eyes because the ulcers became so severe due to their inability to blink.”
Staying Vigilant
When addressing issues within the middle ear, Gentry emphasizes that early detection is crucial.
She advises exercising extreme caution and specifies that any indication of an ear infection—even a slight abnormal head tilt in a flat-faced dog—should motivate owners to consult a veterinarian, who usually treats these infections with medication.
However, some flat-faced pets experiencing severe middle ear disease may necessitate surgery and could risk losing an ear canal. Fortunately, this does not significantly affect their ability to lead a normal life.
While the cautionary accounts associated with owning brachycephalic breeds should not be underestimated, they should not serve as a deterrent to welcoming these delightful dogs into one’s home. With some additional care and attention, owners can ensure that their flat-faced companions enjoy long, fulfilling lives.
The article When Hearing Hurts: Managing Middle Ear Problems In Flat-Faced Dog Breeds first appeared on Texas A&M Today.