What is a common symptom of Otitis externa in dogs?

Excessive ear scratching is a hallmark symptom of otitis externa in dogs. This condition, which refers to inflammation of the external ear canal, often causes discomfort and irritation. As a result, affected dogs frequently scratch their ears in an attempt to alleviate the itching and pain. This behavior may also lead to additional problems, such as trauma to the ear from constant scratching, which can exacerbate the condition.

The other symptoms listed, such as diarrhea and vomiting, lethargy and weakness, or loss of appetite, are not typically associated with otitis externa. While these symptoms can indicate various health issues in dogs, they do not directly correlate with an ear infection. Therefore, recognizing excessive ear scratching as a key symptom helps in early identification and treatment of otitis externa.