Dog Ear Infection Care: Grass Seed Prevention & Home Treatment Guide
Folkestone Groomers Team
26 September 2025
12 min read
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Dog Ear Infection Care: Grass Seed Prevention & Treatment Guide for Folkestone, Hythe, and Dover
Quick Answer: Dog Ear Infection Care & Grass Seed Prevention
Care for dog ear infections with vet-prescribed ear drops (£15-30), gentle cleaning using pH-balanced ear cleaner, and keeping ears dry during treatment. Signs include head shaking, odor, discharge, and pain. Grass seeds are a common infection cause June-October. After walks in long grass, immediately check paws and ears: separate toes to inspect between them; look inside ears for redness or debris. Remove visible surface seeds gently with tweezers; if embedded deep in ear, eye, or causing swelling/limping, seek urgent veterinary care (£120-350). Weekly ear cleaning with veterinary ear cleaner prevents infections.[1][2]
Late spring to early autumn is the UK peak risk period for grass seeds (also called grass awns). Their sharp, barbed ends allow one-way migration under skin or into ears, causing painful infections and abscesses—so end-of-season vigilance matters on the Kent coast and inland paths. Understanding when grass seed season ends and maintaining consistent post-walk checks helps protect your dog during this extended risk period. [1][2]
Paws: Penetration, Migration, and Signs
Seeds commonly lodge between toes, under paw pads, or within skin folds after walks in long grass. Watch for persistent licking or chewing of feet, limping, redness, or swelling between toes. If you spot a seed on the coat surface, gently remove it; if a puncture or swelling suggests it’s embedded, contact your vet promptly.
Ears: Entrapment, Infection, and When to See a Vet
Long-eared and dense-coated breeds are at higher risk of seeds migrating deep into the ear canal (otitis externa). Signs include frequent head shaking, ear scratching, redness, unpleasant odour, or discharge. Seeds deep in the ear often need removal by a vet using an otoscope and sometimes sedation—do not attempt deep removal at home. [1][2]
If a seed is visible at the flap entrance and your dog is comfortable, you can gently remove surface debris, but any pain, deeper migration, or ongoing symptoms warrants veterinary attention.
Amazon UK Recommendation
Keep ears healthy post-walk with a gentle ear cleaner (for routine hygiene at the ear flap) and avoid deep insertion or probing. Seek vet care if you suspect a seed has entered the canal.
Dog Ear Infection Care: How to Treat at Home
Ear infections in dogs (otitis externa) require veterinary diagnosis before home treatment begins. Once your vet has examined your dog and prescribed appropriate medication, you can provide supportive care at home to speed recovery and prevent recurrence.[3]
Signs Your Dog Has an Ear Infection
Grass seeds are a common cause of ear infections in UK dogs from June through October, but infections can develop from other causes year-round. Watch for these symptoms:
Head shaking or tilting - Frequent or violent head shaking, especially after the dog has been still
Scratching or pawing at ears - Persistent scratching that may cause bleeding or hair loss around ears
Odor from ears - Sweet, yeasty smell or foul odor indicating bacterial or fungal infection
Discharge - Yellow, brown, or bloody discharge visible in ear canal
Redness and swelling - Inner ear flap appears red, swollen, or feels hot to touch
Pain or sensitivity - Yelping when ears touched, pulling away from contact
Balance problems - In severe cases, infections affecting inner ear cause circling or loss of balance
Emergency Warning: If your dog shows balance problems, facial paralysis, or cannot open their jaw, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. These signs indicate the infection may have spread to deeper ear structures or the brain.
Home Care for Dog Ear Infections (After Vet Diagnosis)
Never attempt to treat an ear infection without veterinary guidance. Bacterial, yeast, and parasitic infections require different medications, and using the wrong treatment can worsen the condition or cause permanent hearing loss.
Once your vet has confirmed the infection type and prescribed medication (typically antibiotic or antifungal ear drops), follow these home care steps:
Step 1: Gentle Ear Cleaning
Clean ears before applying medication to ensure drops reach infected tissue. Use a veterinary-approved ear cleaner—never water, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol which can damage delicate ear tissue.
Fill ear canal with cleaner until it overflows slightly
Massage base of ear for 20-30 seconds (you'll hear squishing sounds)
Let your dog shake their head to expel debris
Wipe visible discharge from ear flap with cotton wool—never insert anything into ear canal
Wait 10-15 minutes before applying medication
Step 2: Applying Ear Medication
Hold ear flap up to straighten ear canal
Squeeze prescribed number of drops into ear canal
Massage base of ear for 30 seconds to distribute medication
Praise and treat your dog to create positive association
Repeat for other ear if both are infected
Treatment duration: Most ear infections require 7-14 days of twice-daily treatment. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve after a few days. Stopping early can cause antibiotic resistance or recurring infection.
Step 3: Prevent Further Irritation
Use an Elizabethan collar if your dog constantly scratches ears
Keep ears dry - avoid swimming or bathing during treatment
Avoid walks in long grass until infection clears to prevent grass seed entry
Clean food bowls for dogs with long ears that drag in food
Cost of Dog Ear Infection Treatment in the UK
Typical costs for ear infection treatment at UK veterinary practices:
Initial consultation: £45-75 (higher in Kent/Southeast)
Ear drops (antibiotic or antifungal): £15-30 per bottle
Ear cleaner: £8-15 per bottle
Follow-up check (2 weeks): £25-40
Total for uncomplicated infection: £120-200
Chronic or severe infections cost significantly more: Deep ear canal cleaning under sedation (£200-350), surgical intervention for chronic cases (£800-1,500), specialist referral for complicated infections (£300-500 initial consultation).
This is why grass seed prevention through post-walk checks is so important—catching seeds before they cause infection saves hundreds of pounds in treatment costs.
Best Dog Ear Care Products UK
Regular ear cleaning with the right products prevents infections by removing debris, excess wax, and moisture before bacteria or yeast can multiply. Dogs with long, floppy ears (Spaniels, Setters, Basset Hounds) or those prone to allergies benefit from weekly ear cleaning routines.
Ear Cleaners for Routine Maintenance
Veterinary ear cleaners contain gentle surfactants and drying agents that break down wax without damaging ear tissue. Look for products with:
Drying agents - Help prevent moisture buildup that encourages bacterial growth
pH-balanced formulas - Match dog's natural ear pH (slightly acidic)
No alcohol or harsh chemicals - These can cause burning and inflammation
Amazon UK Recommendation: Veterinary Ear Cleaner
For routine ear cleaning to prevent grass seed infections, we recommend Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash - natural formula with tea tree oil and aloe vera that removes debris and soothes irritation. Suitable for weekly use or after walks in long grass.
UK Charity Recommendation
Support the PDSA while caring for your dog's ears with PDSA Vet Care Ear Cleaner - formulated by veterinarians, profits support animal welfare. £6.50 for 100ml with free UK delivery on orders over £20.
Amazon UK Recommendation: Ear Drying Powder
For dogs that swim or live in humid environments, Ear Powder helps dry ear canals and prevent infections. Natural formula safe for sensitive ears. Apply after swimming or bathing.
Amazon UK Recommendation: Pet Otoscope
For dog owners who want to check for grass seeds at home, pet LED otoscopes allow safe ear canal inspection. LED light and magnification help spot seeds or early infection signs. Always consult vet if you find anything concerning.
DIY Post-Walk Checks: Step-by-Step
After every walk through long grass in Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate, and Dover, follow this quick routine:
Separate toes and inspect the skin where they meet; check around pads and under fur.
Comb through feathering and dense areas on legs, chest, and tail to spot surface seeds.
Lift ear flaps and inspect the entrance; look for redness, debris, or any reaction.
Remove visible surface seeds gently; never push deeper or probe sensitive areas.
For a complete post-walk cleaning routine that pairs with these checks, see our Muddy Walk Recovery Guide.
No Space to Wash at Home?
Self-service dog wash stations across the UK offer warm water, raised tubs, and professional dryers—perfect for muddy post-walk cleanups without the mess at home.
Grooming Prevention: Targeted Trims in Vulnerable Areas
Professional groomers can trim hair short around paws (including between the toes and pads) and tidy the entrance to ear flaps to reduce snagging risk. Regular maintenance helps prevent hidden seeds in long, dense, or curly coats.
Book targeted paw and ear trims locally if your dog is prone to seeds or has feathering that catches debris.
How to Care for Dogs Ears: Weekly Prevention Routine
Preventative ear care takes 5 minutes weekly and dramatically reduces infection risk, especially during grass seed season in Folkestone, Hythe, and Dover where long coastal grasses are common.
Weekly Ear Care Routine for Dogs
Step 1: Visual Inspection (60 seconds)
Lift ear flap and look inside - should be pale pink, not red
Sniff ears - no odor is normal, sweet or foul smell indicates infection
Check for discharge, grass seeds, or debris
Gentle touch - ears should not be painful or hot
Step 2: Gentle Cleaning (3-4 minutes)
Use veterinary ear cleaner, never water or homemade solutions
Squirt cleaner into ear canal until it fills and slightly overflows
Massage base of ear for 20-30 seconds
Step back and let dog shake head vigorously
Wipe visible debris from ear flap with cotton wool
Reward with treat to create positive association
Step 3: Drying (if needed)
Dogs that swim or have heavy ear flaps benefit from ear drying powder. Sprinkle small amount into ear canal after cleaning, massage gently, allow dog to shake out excess.
When to Clean More Frequently
Grass seed season (June-October): Clean after every walk in long grass
After swimming: Immediate cleaning prevents swimmer's ear
Dogs with allergies: 2-3 times weekly during allergy season
Water dogs: Spaniels, Retrievers, Newfoundlands - frequent swimming increases moisture
Professional groomers can trim excess ear canal hair during regular appointments to reduce debris trapping. Book our professional Dog Grooming Services for breed-specific ear maintenance.
Urgency Guide: When to Seek Veterinary Care
Head shaking, ear discharge/odour, or persistent scratching.
Red/swollen eyes, squinting, or pawing at the eye.
Limping, swelling, or a draining wound between toes.
Eyes, ears, and toes are common entry points; seeds not removed can migrate under the skin and may require sedation or surgery to locate and extract. Prompt assessment prevents complications and speeds recovery. [1][2]
When Does Grass Seed Season End? UK Timing Guide
Grass seed season typically runs from June through October in the UK, with peak risk during July and August when seeds are dry and most likely to detach. However, the season doesn't end abruptly—dried grass awns can persist well into November, especially in sheltered areas and field margins around Folkestone, Hythe, and Dover.
The exact end depends on weather conditions: wet autumns may cause seeds to decompose faster, while dry conditions can extend the risk period. Even after the main season, remain vigilant during winter walks as some hardy grass species continue to shed seeds until the first hard frosts.
Local Reminder: Stay Vigilant Through the Wrap-Up Period
On the Kent coast and surrounding countryside, dry, barbed grass awns linger in meadows and field edges even as temperatures cool. Keep checks consistent through late season and consider booking a Professional Dog Groomer for targeted maintenance if you notice recurrent issues. For comprehensive grooming services that include preventative paw and ear trims, visit our dog grooming services page.
Professional groomers provide targeted ear and paw trims as part of comprehensive grooming packages. Learn about dog grooming prices and what affects costs to budget for regular preventative care.
With diligent post-walk checks, smart grooming, and timely vet care when needed, your dog can stay comfortable and safe as grass seed season winds down.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does grass seed season end in the UK?
Grass seed season typically ends between October and November in the UK, but dried grass awns can persist longer in sheltered areas. The exact timing depends on weather conditions—wet autumns help decompose seeds faster, while dry conditions extend the risk period.
What are grass awns and are they the same as grass seeds?
Yes, grass awns and grass seeds refer to the same thing—the sharp, barbed seed heads that detach from grasses. The term "awn" specifically describes the bristle-like appendage that helps the seed burrow into soil (or unfortunately, your dog's skin).
How do I know if my dog has a grass seed stuck?
Watch for persistent licking or chewing of paws, head shaking, ear scratching, limping, redness between toes, ear discharge, or weepy eyes. If you notice any of these signs after walks in long grass, check the affected area and contact your vet if you suspect a seed is embedded.
Can I remove grass seeds from my dog myself?
You can safely remove visible surface seeds with fine-tipped tweezers, but never attempt to remove embedded seeds or probe deep into ears, eyes, or wounds. If a seed has penetrated the skin or migrated into body cavities, seek immediate veterinary care.
How can professional grooming help prevent grass seed problems?
Professional groomers can trim hair short around paws (including between toes and pads) and tidy ear flap entrances to reduce snagging risk. Regular maintenance is especially important for dogs with long, dense, or curly coats that easily trap debris. Book our professional grooming services for preventative trims.
How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?
Signs of ear infection include frequent head shaking, scratching at ears, odor, discharge, redness, and pain when ears are touched. Grass seeds commonly cause ear infections from June-October in the UK. You may notice your dog tilting their head to one side, rubbing their ear on the ground, or shaking their head violently. The ear may smell sweet (yeast infection) or foul (bacterial infection). If you see yellow, brown, or bloody discharge, or if the inner ear flap appears red and swollen, contact your vet immediately. Early treatment prevents chronic infections that can cost £800-1,500 in specialist care.
What are the best dog ear care products UK?
The best UK ear care products include veterinary-formulated cleaners like Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash, PDSA Vet Care Ear Cleaner, and Thornit Ear Powder for drying. Look for pH-balanced formulas with gentle surfactants and no alcohol or harsh chemicals. Vet's Best (£8-12) contains natural tea tree oil and aloe vera for soothing irritated ears. PDSA Vet Care Ear Cleaner (£6.50) is formulated by vets with profits supporting animal welfare. Thornit Ear Powder (£15-20) helps dry ears after swimming or in humid weather. Always avoid using water, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol which can damage delicate ear tissue. Purchase from Amazon UK, VioVet, or PDSA shop for authentic products.
How often should I clean my dog's ears?
Most dogs need ear cleaning once weekly, but frequency depends on breed, lifestyle, and health history. Long-eared breeds (Spaniels, Basset Hounds) and water dogs benefit from 2-3 times weekly cleaning. During grass seed season (June-October), clean after every walk in long grass. After swimming, immediate ear cleaning prevents infections. Dogs with chronic ear infection history or allergies may need more frequent cleaning as advised by your vet. Healthy ears with upright structure (German Shepherds, Huskies) may only need cleaning every 2 weeks. Over-cleaning can disrupt natural ear flora and increase infection risk, so follow your vet's guidance for your individual dog.
Can I treat my dog's ear infection at home?
Only treat ear infections at home after veterinary diagnosis and with prescribed medication. Bacterial, yeast, and parasitic infections require different treatments—using the wrong medication can worsen the condition or cause permanent hearing loss. Your vet will examine your dog's ears (often with an otoscope), take a swab to identify the infection type, and prescribe appropriate ear drops. Once diagnosed, you can provide home care by cleaning ears before applying medication, completing the full treatment course (typically 7-14 days), and preventing further irritation by keeping ears dry. Home remedies like vinegar or oil should never replace veterinary treatment. Cost for vet diagnosis and treatment: £120-200 for uncomplicated infections.
How much does grass seed removal cost at the vet?
Grass seed removal costs £80-350 depending on location and sedation requirements. Surface seeds visible in the ear flap can often be removed during a standard consultation (£45-75). Seeds deep in the ear canal require otoscope examination (£25-40 extra) and sometimes sedation (£150-250) to safely remove without causing pain or further damage. Grass seeds in eyes or between toes may cost £100-200 including removal and medication. Seeds that have migrated under skin or caused abscesses require surgical removal (£300-800). Prevention through post-walk checks costs nothing and takes 2 minutes—far better value than emergency vet visits during grass seed season.
Veterinary Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet if you suspect your dog has a grass seed injury or if symptoms persist after removal attempts.
References
[1] PDSA. (2024). "Grass seeds in dogs." UK's leading veterinary charity guidance on grass seed injuries.
[2] Blue Cross. (2024). "Grass seeds and dogs." Comprehensive guide to grass seed prevention and treatment.
