How to Prevent Ear Infections in Portuguese Water Dogs

Are Portuguese Water Dogs prone to ear infections?
Portuguese Water Dogs, also known as PWDs, are a beautiful and intelligent breed that has gained popularity in recent years
They are medium-sized dogs with a curly or wavy coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance
One aspect of their health that potential owners should be aware of is their susceptibility to ear infections
Ear infections are common in dogs, and certain breeds are more prone to them than others
PWDs are one such breed that is known to be predisposed to ear infections
This is due to several factors, including the unique structure of their ears and their love for water activities
One of the reasons why PWDs are prone to ear infections is their floppy, drop-down ears
The floppy nature of their ears makes it harder for air to circulate within the ear canal, creating a warm and moist environment
This encourages the growth of bacteria and yeast, which can lead to infections
Additionally, PWDs have a lot of hair inside their ears, which can trap moisture and further contribute to the development of infections
The hair can also obstruct the air flow, preventing the ears from staying dry and clean
Regular grooming, including plucking the hair from the ear canal, is essential in preventing ear infections in PWDs
Another reason why Portuguese Water Dogs are more susceptible to ear infections is their affinity for water-related activities
These dogs have a natural talent for swimming and have historically been used as working dogs by fishermen
However, their frequent exposure to water increases the chances of moisture getting trapped in their ears, leading to infections