Keywords: canine otology, rhinitis, laryngitis, otitis externa, otitis media, nasal discharge, tonsillitis, tracheal collapse, aural hematoma, endoscopy
Diseases of the ear, nose and throat (ENT) are extremely common in canine practice. These structures are closely connected anatomically, so local inflammation often spreads between regions. Veterinarians combine physical examination, otoscopy, rhinoscopy, imaging and cytology to identify pathogens or structural abnormalities. Prompt treatment reduces complications such as permanent hearing loss, chronic nasal infection or airway obstruction.
Otitis externa, inflammation of the external ear canal, ranks among the most frequent canine disorders. Predisposing factors include allergies, excess ear wax, trapped moisture, foreign bodies and parasitic infection by ear mites. Clinical signs include scratching, head shaking, foul-smelling discharge, redness and pain. If untreated, infection extends into the middle ear, causing otitis media, facial nerve paralysis or vestibular disease. Aural hematoma may form when repeated head shaking ruptures blood vessels inside the ear flap. Cytology of ear swabs helps differentiate yeast and bacterial infection to select appropriate topical medications.
Nasal diseases present mainly with nasal discharge, sneezing, nosebleed and reduced sense of smell. Unilateral discharge often points to foreign bodies, dental root abscess or nasal tumours. Bilateral signs are more typical of infectious rhinitis, allergic rhinitis or canine distemper. Rhinoscopy allows direct visualisation of the nasal cavity and collection of tissue samples. Imaging such as radiography or CT can evaluate bone destruction and assess the extent of lesions.
Throat and airway conditions affect the pharynx, larynx and trachea. Tonsillitis causes sore throat, difficulty swallowing and gagging. Laryngeal paralysis is common in older large-breed dogs, leading to noisy breathing, exercise intolerance and risk of respiratory crisis. Tracheal collapse is frequently seen in small breeds, presenting with a characteristic honking cough triggered by excitement or pulling on the leash. Endoscopy is the gold standard to examine laryngeal and tracheal function.
Management focuses on addressing the primary cause rather than only relieving symptoms. Allergic underlying disease needs long-term control, while tumours or foreign bodies require surgical removal. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and ear cleaners are used as indicated. Chronic ENT diseases require repeated rechecks, as relapse is common. Early examination prevents mild inflammation from progressing into irreversible damage of hearing or breathing function.