Best Dog Ear Infection Supplements (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet, and if your pup is constantly scratching at their ears, shaking their head, or producing a funky smell from their ear canal, you know how frustrating it can be. While veterinary treatment is essential for active infections, the right ear health supplements can help prevent recurrence, support healing, and keep your dog’s ears clean and comfortable. From enzymatic ear solutions to probiotic supplements that address the underlying causes, here are the best dog ear infection supplements on the market.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution – Vet-trusted enzyme-based infection treatment
- Best Value: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner – Gentle daily ear maintenance
- Best Premium: Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus – Stronger enzyme formula for stubborn infections
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zymox Otic with 1% Hydrocortisone | LP3 Enzyme System, 1% Hydrocortisone | Ear Solution | 1.25 oz | Active ear infections with itching |
| Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced | Monosaccharides, Anti-adhesive agents | Ear Cleanser | 8 oz | Daily ear cleaning + prevention |
| BestLife4Pets Ear Infection Relief | Natural Plant Blend, Cell Salts | Oral Tablets | Varies | Homeopathic ear support |
| Zymox Ear Cleanser | LP3 Enzyme System, Gentle Surfactants | Ear Cleanser | 4 oz | Post-infection ear maintenance |
| Zymox Advanced Otic Plus with Hydrocortisone | Advanced LP3 Enzymes, 1% Hydrocortisone | Ear Solution | 1.25 oz | Chronic or stubborn infections |
| Dr. Pol ProDen PlaqueOff Powder | North Atlantic Kelp | Powder | 60g | Overall oral + immune health |
| Proden PlaqueOff Dental Care | Ascophyllum nodosum | Powder | 60g | Systemic oral health |
| Pet Supplements Dog Probiotics | Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Inulin | Soft Chews | 60 | Gut + immune support for ear health |
1. Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with 1% Hydrocortisone – Best Overall
- Ear care for dogs and cats - soothes ear infections, redness and inflammation for pets of all ages
- Gentle, no-sting formula
- Solution provides a safe, natural alternative to medication with 1% Hydrocortisone for itch relief
- No pre-cleaning of painful ears required - fill ear canal and let solution get to work
- LP3 Enzyme System helps clear ear secretions and promotes healthy ears
Zymox Otic is the gold standard in over-the-counter dog ear infection treatment, trusted by veterinarians since 1998 and used in clinics nationwide.
This enzymatic ear solution uses the patented LP3 Enzyme System — a combination of Lactoferrin, Lactoperoxidase, and Lysozyme — to destroy bacteria, fungi, and yeast without attacking healthy cells or irritating the skin. The added 1% Hydrocortisone provides relief from itching and inflammation. One of the biggest advantages of Zymox is that it requires no pre-cleaning — you apply it directly to the uncleaned ear, which reduces stress for both you and your dog. Apply once daily for 7-14 days.
What We Like
- Patented LP3 Enzyme System fights bacteria, fungi, and yeast
- No painful pre-cleaning required before application
- 1% Hydrocortisone for itch and inflammation relief
What Could Be Better
- Small 1.25oz bottle may not last through multiple infections
- Should not be used with other topical ear products simultaneously
Bottom Line: Zymox Otic is the most trusted over-the-counter ear infection solution available — its enzyme-based, no-pre-clean approach makes treatment easier and less stressful for everyone involved.
2. Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner – Best Value
- Epi-Otic may be used for routine ear cleansing in healthy ear canal or prior to administration of other ear preparations
- A mild alcohol-free cleansing and drying solution for routine maintenance of otitis externa
- Epi-Otic has a low pH of 2.2 and contains no chlorhexidine or alcohol
- Packaging May Vary
Virbac is one of the most respected names in veterinary pharmaceuticals, and their Epi-Otic Advanced is the ear cleanser most commonly recommended by vets for routine ear maintenance.
This gentle, non-irritating cleanser is formulated with a neutral pH so it won’t interfere with other ear medications. It uses monosaccharides to soothe irritated ears (anti-irritant) and limit the binding of microorganisms to the skin (anti-adhesive). The result is cleaner ears with less debris, wax, and bacterial buildup. The 8oz bottle provides excellent value for regular use, and it’s safe for dogs and cats of any age. Use it weekly for prevention or as directed by your vet.
What We Like
- Vet-recommended brand trusted by clinics worldwide
- Neutral pH won’t interfere with ear medications
- Anti-irritant and anti-adhesive formula
What Could Be Better
- Treats and prevents — not designed to treat active infections alone
- Requires manual ear cleaning technique
Bottom Line: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced is the go-to ear cleanser for ongoing ear maintenance and infection prevention — a must-have for dogs prone to chronic ear problems.
3. BestLife4Pets Ear Infection & Itch Relief
- Comprehensive Dog Itch Relief: Unlike other messy dog ear cleaners and ointments, this powerful cat and dog ear infection treatment goes beyond clean ears to reduce itching, swelling, and smelly discharge caused by ear mites, yeast, or other irritants.
- Easy Ear Cleaning Solution: Stop struggling with ear drops and wipes, our easy to administer natural alternative to cat and dog ear infection medicines and topical ear mite treatments is a hassle-free solution for itchy ears, redness and inflammation of the inner ear, as well as outside ear skin issues like bumps, lesions and papules.
- Effective Ear Infection Formula: Target the root cause of pet ear problems such as otitis, ear mites, ear yeast infections, dry scaly skin, and inflammation with our potent yet gentle remedy. Ideal for all pets, this safe and gentle solution supports long term cat and dog ear health from kitten and puppy to senior.
- Plant Based Natural Formula: Unlike other pet supplements that contain artificial ingredients, our homeopathic remedies are safe and effective. Buy confidently knowing that our BestLife4Pets Itchy Ear Relief for Dogs and Cats formula is made entirely with natural, gluten-free, and non-GMO intentionally blended plants and cell salts.
- No Fuss, Easy to Give: We know the struggle to try and administer meds to your pet. That's why our small, odorless, and tasteless ear infection pills are made to be easily hidden in treats, a pill pocket, added to kibble, or crushed into powder and dissolved in water, making administration stress-free for both you and your furry friend.
BestLife4Pets takes a homeopathic approach to ear health with small, easy-to-give oral tablets that support ear health from the inside out.
Unlike topical solutions, these tablets are taken orally and use a blend of natural plant-based ingredients and cell salts to address the root causes of ear problems — including otitis, ear mites, yeast infections, dry scaly skin, and inflammation. The odorless, tasteless tablets can be hidden in treats, crushed into powder and dissolved in water, or added directly to kibble. They’re suitable for dogs and cats of all ages, from puppies and kittens to seniors.
What We Like
- Oral tablets — no need to touch sensitive, painful ears
- Natural, gluten-free, non-GMO plant-based formula
- Suitable for dogs and cats of all ages
What Could Be Better
- Homeopathic approach may not work for all dogs
- Should be used alongside vet treatment for active infections
Bottom Line: BestLife4Pets Ear Infection Relief is a gentle, stress-free option for pet parents who want to support ear health without the challenge of applying topical products to sore ears.
4. Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bio-Active Enzymes
- Cat and dog ear cleaner – quickly and effectively clean non-infected ears in pets of all ages
- Gentle, non-toxic and non-irritating solution free from harsh detergents, veterinarian recommended
- LP3 Enzyme System helps to gently maintain healthy, fresh smelling ears
- Cat and dog ear cleaner solution to manage dirty ears, safe for flushing the ears after an infection
- Proudly USA made in a Federally Regulated Manufacturing Facility, cruelty-free and easy to use
This is Zymox’s maintenance cleanser — the perfect follow-up to their Otic treatment solution for keeping ears clean and infection-free long-term.
The Zymox Ear Cleanser contains the same LP3 Enzyme System found in their treatment formula, but in a gentler formulation designed for regular cleaning of non-infected ears. It uses a mix of proteins, enzymes, and gentle cleaning surfactants to manage dirt effectively without harsh chemicals or detergents. The enzymes help control microbial growth within the ears, reducing the chance of future infections. Use once or twice a week to maintain clean, healthy ears.
What We Like
- Contains LP3 enzymes to control microbial growth during cleaning
- No harsh chemicals or detergents
- Perfect for post-treatment maintenance
What Could Be Better
- Not designed to treat active infections — use Zymox Otic instead
- 4oz bottle may run out quickly with multiple dogs
Bottom Line: Zymox Ear Cleanser is the ideal companion product to use after treating an infection with Zymox Otic — it keeps ears clean and helps prevent recurrence with regular weekly use.
5. Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus – Best Premium
- Ear care for dogs and cats - soothes ear infections, redness and inflammation for pets of all ages
- Gentle no-sting formula helps ease painful ear infections caused by germs, fungi and yeast
- Solution provides a safe, natural alternative to harsh medication with .5% Hydrocortisone for itch relief
- No pre-cleaning of painful ears required - fill ear canal and let the powerful solution get to work
- LP3 Enzyme System helps clear ear secretions and promotes healthy ears
For chronic or stubborn ear infections that don’t respond to the standard Zymox formula, the Advanced Formula Otic Plus delivers a more powerful enzymatic punch.
This premium version features an enhanced LP3 Enzyme System with higher potency enzymes designed to tackle more resistant bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections. The 1% Hydrocortisone provides the same itch and inflammation relief as the standard version. Like all Zymox products, no pre-cleaning is required — apply directly to uncleaned ears once daily for 7-14 days, with extended use being safe if needed.
What We Like
- Advanced, higher-potency enzyme formula for stubborn infections
- Same easy no-pre-clean application method
- Safe for extended use under veterinary guidance
What Could Be Better
- Premium price — more expensive than the standard Otic
- Small bottle size requires careful use
Bottom Line: Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus is the heavy hitter you’ll want when standard treatments aren’t cutting it — the enhanced enzyme system tackles even chronic ear infections.
6. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy
- Dog Dental Care: ProDen PlaqueOff is a natural seaweed shown to improve oral health by helping reduce plaque and tartar buildup, improve breath, and support ideal dental hygiene.
- Healthy Mouth for Dogs: Statistically, most adult pets experience dental issues at some time; preventative oral care such as ProDen may keep their teeth and mouth healthy at all ages.
- Bad Breath Eliminator: Foul breath odor can be linked to built-up biofilm on teeth; ProDen is shown to help soften and reduce this buildup over time, providing fresh breath for dogs and cats.
- Low-Maintenance Dog Teeth Cleaning: ProDen works from within through the saliva and functions smoothly without requiring brushing.
- Superior Pet Dental Care: Made with no additives, flavors, or artificial ingredients, ProDen's pet teeth cleaning power comes from sustainably harvested deep sea kelp for clean teeth and healthy gums.
Proden PlaqueOff for dogs and cats is a dental care powder that also supports overall immune health — a key factor in preventing recurring ear infections.
While this product is primarily marketed for dental care, the natural North Atlantic kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum) it contains has systemic anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties. Since many chronic ear infections are linked to broader immune dysfunction or allergic responses, maintaining overall immune health is a key strategy for prevention. This single-ingredient powder is sprinkled on food daily and works from within through the saliva and systemic pathways.
What We Like
- Supports systemic immune and anti-inflammatory health
- Single natural ingredient — no fillers or additives
- Easy daily sprinkle on food
What Could Be Better
- Not a direct ear treatment — works as systemic support
- Not suitable for dogs with thyroid conditions
Bottom Line: Adding a systemic immune support supplement like ProDen PlaqueOff can complement topical ear treatments and help reduce the frequency of recurring ear infections.
7. Pet Supplements Dog Probiotics for Gut & Immune Health
- DOG PROBIOTICS: Just like it’s important for us to have a healthy bacterial balance in our GI tracts, or guts, our loyal doggie friends benefit from a healthy gut environment, too. One of the best ways you can help keep your dog healthy is by giving them high-quality dog probiotics like our supplement has to offer.
- STOP DIGESTIVES ISSUES: When your pet is sick or feeling stressed, the balance between healthy and illness-causing issues in there gut can become disrupted. This can lead to issues like diarrhea, gas, cramping and bad breath. Probiotics have been shown to reduce the duration of diarrhea in dogs from seven to four days.
- STOP DIARRHEA IN DOGS: There are many causes for diarrhea, including stress, travel, changes in diet, and various illnesses. Probiotics help maintain healthy populations of microflora that can help stop diarrhea. A natural solution like our supplement is a lot better than anything else for diarrhea.
- GET RID OF BAD BACTERIA IN DOGS: Probiotics help in the production of Vitamin K and Vitamin B. They also produce short chain fatty acids and support against bad bacteria. Probiotics have a strong effect in improving the local intestinal immune system and this translates to overall improved immunity in dogs.
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE, if you are not satisfied with the results we will refund your money even if you have finished the bottle. We are a loyal business with our own pets and know how important your pet’s health is to you. Make your RISK FREE purchase today with Pet Supplements!
Many veterinarians agree that gut health and ear infections are closely linked — this probiotic supplement supports the immune system from the inside to help prevent recurring ear problems.
This probiotic blend contains over 250 million active cultures including Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bifidobacterium Bifidus, Lactobacillus Salivarius, Bifidobacterium Longum, and Inulin (FOS) as a prebiotic. By maintaining healthy gut bacteria balance, these probiotics help strengthen your dog’s immune response — which is critical since many ear infections are triggered by allergies and immune dysfunction. The chewable treats are easy to give and support overall digestive wellness alongside ear health.
What We Like
- Multiple probiotic strains for comprehensive gut support
- Includes Inulin prebiotic for enhanced probiotic effectiveness
- Supports the immune system to help prevent ear infections
What Could Be Better
- Indirect ear support — works through immune system, not directly on ears
- Results may take several weeks of consistent use
Bottom Line: If your dog’s ear infections keep coming back, adding a quality probiotic to their daily routine can help address the underlying immune and gut health factors that contribute to chronic ear problems.
8. Zymox Enzymatic Ear Solution without Hydrocortisone
- Dog Dental Care: ProDen PlaqueOff is a natural seaweed shown to improve oral health by helping reduce plaque and tartar buildup, improve breath, and support ideal dental hygiene.
- Healthy Mouth for Dogs: Statistically, most adult pets experience dental issues at some time; preventative oral care such as ProDen may keep their teeth and mouth healthy at all ages.
- Bad Breath Eliminator: Foul breath odor can be linked to built-up biofilm on teeth; ProDen is shown to help soften and reduce this buildup over time, providing fresh breath for dogs and cats.
- Low-Maintenance Dog Teeth Cleaning: ProDen works from within through the saliva and functions smoothly without requiring brushing.
- Superior Pet Dental Care: Made with no additives, flavors, or artificial ingredients, ProDen's pet teeth cleaning power comes from sustainably harvested deep sea kelp for clean teeth and healthy gums.
For pet parents who prefer to avoid steroids, Zymox offers the same trusted LP3 Enzyme System in a hydrocortisone-free formula.
This version contains all the infection-fighting power of the standard Zymox Otic — Lactoferrin, Lactoperoxidase, and Lysozyme — but without the added hydrocortisone. It’s a good choice for dogs who need long-term or repeated use, dogs with sensitivities to steroids, or situations where your vet recommends avoiding hydrocortisone. The application method is identical: apply liberally to the uncleaned ear canal, massage, and wipe away excess. Use daily for 7-14 days.
What We Like
- Same powerful enzyme formula without steroids
- Better for long-term or repeated use
- No pre-cleaning required
What Could Be Better
- Lacks itch relief provided by hydrocortisone
- May not be sufficient for severely inflamed ears
Bottom Line: The hydrocortisone-free Zymox Otic is the right choice when you want enzyme-based ear infection treatment without steroid components — ideal for longer-term management.
How to Choose the Best Dog Ear Infection Supplement
Choosing the right ear infection supplement starts with understanding what you’re dealing with. If your dog has an active ear infection — characterized by redness, swelling, discharge, odor, and scratching — you’ll need a treatment product like Zymox Otic. If you’re looking to prevent infections or maintain clean ears between outbreaks, a cleanser like Virbac Epi-Otic or Zymox Ear Cleanser is more appropriate.
Consider the type of infection your dog is prone to. Bacterial infections, yeast infections, and mixed infections each respond differently to treatment. Enzyme-based products like Zymox are effective against all three, which is why they’re so popular. If your dog’s infections are primarily yeast-driven, products with antifungal properties should be prioritized.
Think about whether your dog will tolerate ear drops and topical solutions. Dogs with painful, swollen ears may resist having anything applied directly to their ear canal. In these cases, oral supplements like BestLife4Pets tablets or probiotics can provide supportive care without touching the sensitive area. Many vets recommend a combination approach — topical treatment plus systemic immune support.
Don’t overlook prevention. Dogs that are prone to ear infections — particularly breeds with floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Golden Retrievers — benefit enormously from regular ear cleaning and immune-supporting supplements. Probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory supplements can all help reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections over time.
Benefits of Dog Ear Infection Supplements
The primary benefit of ear infection supplements is relief from the discomfort, itching, and pain that come with active ear infections. Products with hydrocortisone provide immediate itch relief, while enzyme-based solutions work to eliminate the infection-causing organisms without antibiotics — which means there’s no risk of developing antibiotic resistance.
Regular use of ear cleansers removes the debris, wax, and moisture that create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. By maintaining a clean, dry ear environment, you significantly reduce the likelihood of infections developing in the first place. This is especially important for dogs that swim frequently or have ears that trap moisture.
Systemic supplements like probiotics and immune support formulas address the underlying causes of recurring ear infections. Many chronic ear problems are linked to allergies, immune dysfunction, or gut health imbalances. By strengthening the immune system and balancing gut bacteria, these supplements help your dog’s body fight off potential infections before they take hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I treat my dog’s ear infection at home?
Mild ear infections can often be managed with over-the-counter products like Zymox Otic. However, if your dog’s ear is severely swollen, bleeding, producing thick discharge, or if they’re in significant pain, you should see a veterinarian. Chronic or recurring infections also warrant professional evaluation.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
For most dogs, cleaning ears once a week is sufficient. Dogs that swim frequently, have floppy ears, or are prone to infections may benefit from cleaning twice a week. Over-cleaning can actually irritate the ear canal, so follow your vet’s specific recommendations.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear infections are often linked to underlying allergies (food or environmental), moisture trapped in the ear canal, anatomical factors (floppy ears), immune system weakness, or hormonal imbalances. Addressing these root causes — often with the help of probiotics, omega-3s, and allergen management — is key to breaking the cycle.
Can probiotics really help prevent ear infections?
Yes. Research shows that gut health and immune function are closely connected. Since many ear infections are triggered by immune dysfunction or allergic responses, maintaining healthy gut bacteria through probiotics can help strengthen your dog’s ability to fight off infections.
What dog breeds are most prone to ear infections?
Breeds with long, floppy ears — including Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Beagles — are most susceptible. Breeds with narrow ear canals (like Shar Peis) and those prone to allergies are also at higher risk.
Can I use Zymox and an ear cleaner at the same time?
No. The manufacturer specifically states that no other topical ear products should be used while using Zymox Otic, as they can interfere with the enzyme system’s effectiveness. Use Zymox Otic for treatment, then switch to a cleanser like Zymox Ear Cleanser or Virbac Epi-Otic for ongoing maintenance after the infection has cleared.
Should I clean my dog’s ears before applying Zymox?
No. One of the key advantages of Zymox products is that they’re designed to be applied to uncleaned ears. The enzymes actually react with the present pus and debris to kill infectious organisms. Pre-cleaning can reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Are ear infection supplements safe for puppies?
Most ear cleansers like Virbac Epi-Otic are safe for dogs of any age. Zymox products are also suitable for puppies. However, always check the specific product label for age restrictions, and consult your vet before treating a puppy’s ear infection at home.
