NON-DESCRIPT AND LABRADOR RETRIEVER BREEDS MOST AFFECTED BY OTITIS EXTERNA IN DOGS

Abstract

Otitis externa is a common inflammatory condition affecting dogs' external ear canal, caused by various factors such as bacteria, yeast, fungi, and parasites. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Otitis externa in dogs based on age, breed, gender, ear type, and season. A retrospective and current study was conducted in Veterinary College, Hebbal, Bengaluru. Dogs presented with clinical signs suggestive of Otitis externa were considered for the study. The prevalence of Otitis externa was found to be 1.33% and 52.47% among all dogs presented and dogs with ear diseases, respectively. The study showed that males were more affected than females, and drop type ear dogs were more susceptible than prick and intermediate ear types. The rainy season had the highest prevalence of Otitis externa, followed by winter and summer, and all age groups were affected. Non-descript and Labrador Retriever breeds had the highest prevalence of Otitis externa in dogs. In conclusion, this study provides essential information to veterinarians and dog owners about the incidence and risk factors associated with Otitis externa. Identifying the predisposing factors can assist in early identification and management of the disease and prevent its recurrence.