Ear anomalies
Also known as: Congenital ear malformations · Angeborene Ohrenfehlbildung · Ohrdysplasie · Ear canal stenosis · Congenital vestibular and auditory defects
Overview
What it is
Ear anomalies are congenital malformations affecting the structure of a dog's outer ear, ear canal, or inner ear. These developmental defects can block normal airflow or disrupt the transmission of sound, potentially causing chronic infections or hearing loss. To assess the extent of the inner ear's function, veterinarians often use a specialized hearing test known as a Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) test.
How it presents
Signs are usually noticeable in puppyhood and include visibly unusual ear shapes, a failure to respond to sounds, or frequent head shaking and scratching due to early-onset infections.
Treatment
While some dogs only require lifelong ear cleaning and anti-inflammatory care, severe cases may need a one-time surgery to widen the ear canal. Treatment and management costs generally range from €400 to €4,500.
How it's tested
BAER-Hörtest(BAER)
Primary testhearingBrainstem Auditory Evoked Response: objektiver Hörtest, erkennt einseitige und beidseitige Taubheit.
Issuing body: BAER
Result scheme: BAER
Affected breeds
2 of 2 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Ear anomalies?
Ear anomalies are congenital malformations affecting the structure of a dog's outer ear, ear canal, or inner ear. These developmental defects can block normal airflow or disrupt the transmission of sound, potentially causing chronic infections or hearing loss. To assess the extent of the inner ear's function, veterinarians often use a specialized hearing test known as a Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) test.
How is Ear anomalies tested?
Tests currently in our database: BAER-Hörtest.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Chow Chow, Broholmer.