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The symptoms above resemble other ear problems such as yeast infection. If your dog shows the above symptoms, therefore, it is important to take him to the vet for a proper diagnosis. You can also try to confirm mites by removing some waxy discharge from your dog's ears and, using a magnifying glass, look for some white specks that move.
Conventional treatment for dog ear mites may involve the use of a miticide or a flea control product (e.g. Revolution).
If you prefer to go the natural way, consider herbs. Herbs are effective in cleaning the ears and getting rid of the mites. Here are some useful herbs that you can try to use:
Yellow Dock
A tea of yellow dock is effective in treating this dog ear problem. Add one teaspoon of the dry herb of yellow dock to half a cup of boiling water. Let the tea cool down. Then strain it with a piece of cheese cloth and pour the liquid into a bottle and place about half a dropperful of the tea into the ears, twice a day. Massage the ears gently.
Oregano
Make an oregano oil by adding 1/2 teaspoon of oregano to 1/2 oz. of olive oil. Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth. Apply about half a dropperful of the strained oil into the ears, twice daily. Oregano oil is antibacterial and antiviral, and is effective in getting rid of mites.
Mullein and Garlic
The antimicrobial and antiviral properties of mullein make it an excellent herb for treating ear infections caused by mites in dogs. Garlic is antibiotic; when used in combination with mullein, it is also effective for treating ear problems.
To make a mullein and garlic herbal remedy for ear mites, simply combine equal parts of mullein oil and garlic oil. Then to every ounce of this oil mixture, add ten to twenty drops of pure olive oil (or vitamin E). Mix well. Apply this oil mixture to the ear canal of your dog and gently massage the dog ear.
Oregon Grape
The strong antibiotic and antibacterial properties of Oregon grape makes it an effective herb for treating ear infections or mites. Use an oil infusion of the herb. Apply 1-10 drops at a time in each ear once or twice daily.
Homeopathic remedies can also be used effectively to treat ear mites in dogs. If you want to use homeopathic treatment, ask a holistic vet about the use of Apis, Pulsatilla, Sulphur or Silicea.
Here is an effective homeopathic product for ear mites:
This homeopathic remedy contains Apis, Pulsatilla, Echinacea, etc. and is effective in relieving symptoms of mites, minor ear infection, redness, swelling, and pain.
In addition to eliminating ear mites, it is essential to use herbs and/or dietary supplements to strengthen your dog's immune system. Parasites tend to affect weak hosts more so than strong hosts.
Supplements that can boost your dog's immune system include: