In order to survive, bacteria needs proteins, and that’s where colloidal silver becomes useful for humans and pets. Silver can kill certain bacteria by destroying the proteins they need to stay alive. Using colloidal silver for dogs can be helpful in treating certain bacterial and yeast infections, which is why it’s becoming more common in over-the-counter pet products.

Here are some of the many health claims made by over-the-counter silver products for pets: 

• Supports immunity 
  
• Promotes respiratory health
  
• Kills microbes like yeast and bacteria (antimicrobial)
  
• Helps with wound healing
  
• Soothes irritation (anti-inflammatory)
  
• Protects against certain viruses (antiviral)
  
• Prevents topical infections when applied to the skin
  
• Helps with gum soreness and inflammation
  

Wondering how to treat dog ear yeast infections without vet intervention? No matter how you attempt to treat the ear infection at home, you should always contact your vet at the first sign of a dog ear infection. They’ll give you the best advice on how to treat it and can help determine what might be causing it.

Signs of dog ear infection include: 

• Scratching or pawing at the ear
  
• Tilting or shaking the head
  
• A strong odor from the ear
  
• Loss of balance (a dog’s equilibrium can be affected by an ear infection)
  
• Oozing or discharge from the ear
  
• Redness inside the ear canal
  

When it comes to using nano silver, colloidal silver for dog ear infections, there are a few major benefits that might help your pet ditch their itchy ears:

Certain types of silver can help heal wounds around the ear caused by excessive itching and scratching during a dog ear infection. Silver particles block other harmful particles around sore and open wounds, which allows the wound to heal naturally. 

Small-particle silvers (larger than nanosilver) remain on the skin for some time after being applied topically. So if you use an ear flush or dog ear drops with silver inside the ear, you might be able to help prevent new infections. 

Products with nano silver particles or smaller can help treat active ear infections inside the ear by killing yeast and bacteria. There’s also some evidence that the more porous the silver the better when it comes to doling out antibacterial power against ear infections. 

Are you trying to determine whether or not silver is toxic for dogs, and if you should use it? Consider the type of silver you’re using as well as the application. Using topical silver products with a larger particle size–for example, micro-sized silver–is perfectly safe for pets because it sits on top of the skin.

If you’re thinking about using a silver product that has to be ingested (swallowed) by your pet–or if it has a nano particle size that can enter your pet’s bloodstream–first discuss the treatment with your veterinarian. They’ll help you decide if it’s the right option for your pet’s unique needs!

When using colloidal silver for dogs, always follow the dosage instructions on the product’s packaging. In rare cases, ingesting too much colloidal silver could potentially cause long-term harm in humans and animals. The good news is that when applied topically–for example, in a dog’s ear or on the skin–you’re not facing the same risks. 

Wondering how to treat dog ear yeast infections without vet intervention? Take our advice, and never go-it alone when it comes to any type of ear infection in dogs. Any type of foul odor, irritation, redness, inflammation or other abnormal symptoms in the ear should be evaluated by a medical professional to safeguard your pet’s health!

Want more vet-reviewed tips for keeping your dog’s ears healthy? Read the latest: 

Ear Infection Alert: Is Your Dog One of These At-Risk Breeds?

Why Do Dogs Shake Their Head?

How Do I Know If My Dog Has an Ear Infection?