How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears: A Step-by-Step Guide

by | Oct 23, 2024

cleaning dog's earsRegular ear cleaning is an important part of your dog’s overall health and grooming routine. While some dogs rarely need their ears cleaned, others, especially those with floppy ears or prone to ear infections, may require more frequent maintenance. Learning how to clean your dog’s ears at home can help prevent infections, discomfort, and odour. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely and effectively clean your dog’s ears.

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Dog’s Ears

Dogs’ ears can accumulate dirt, wax, and debris, which may lead to infections or discomfort if not addressed. Certain breeds, like those with long, floppy ears (e.g., Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds), are more prone to ear infections due to limited airflow to the ear canal. Regular ear cleaning can help reduce the risk of:

– Ear Infections: Bacteria, yeast, and fungi thrive in moist, dirty ears.

– Wax Buildup: Excessive wax can block the ear canal and trap debris.

– Ear Mites: These parasites can cause itching, inflammation, and infection.

When Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?

Not all dogs need frequent ear cleaning. You should check your dog’s ears regularly to see if they need cleaning. Signs that your dog’s ears may need cleaning include:

– A foul odour coming from the ears

– Excessive scratching or head shaking

– Redness or inflammation

– Visible dirt, wax, or debris

– Discharge or wetness

If your dog’s ears are red, swollen, or painful, or if you notice any discharge, contact your veterinarian before attempting to clean them. These could be signs of an infection or other health problem that may need medical treatment.

What You’ll Need

To clean your dog’s ears, you’ll need:

– Dog-friendly ear cleaning solution: Your veterinarian can suggest a suitable ear cleaner for your pet. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can irritate the delicate ear canal.

– Cotton balls or gauze: Never use cotton swabs (Q-tips) inside the ear canal, as they can push debris further in and cause damage.

– Towel: To catch any solution that may drip during the cleaning process.

– Treats: To reward your dog and make the process more positive.

 Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

  1. Create a Calm Environment

Before starting, choose a quiet, comfortable space where your dog feels at ease. If your dog is anxious, try to calm them down by petting them or offering a treat. Having a helper hold your dog in place can be useful if your dog tends to squirm.

  1. Inspect Your Dog’s Ears

Take a moment to gently inspect the inside of your dog’s ears. Look for any signs of redness, swelling, unusual discharge, or foul odours, as these could indicate an infection. If your dog’s ears seem healthy but are dirty, proceed with the cleaning.

  1. Apply the Ear Cleaning Solution

Hold your dog’s ear flap up to expose the ear canal. Carefully pour or squirt a few drops of the ear cleaning solution into the ear canal. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label regarding the correct amount of solution to use.

  1. Massage the Base of the Ear

Once you’ve applied the ear cleaning solution, gently massage the base of your dog’s ear for 20-30 seconds. This helps the solution break down any wax, dirt, or debris inside the ear canal. You may hear a squishing sound, which is normal.

  1. Let Your Dog Shake Their Head

After massaging the ear, allow your dog to shake their head. This helps loosen and remove the solution, along with any debris. Hold the towel nearby to catch any spray from your dog’s ears.

  1. Wipe Away the Excess

Using a cotton ball or gauze, gently wipe away any visible dirt, wax, or solution from the outer ear canal and the inner part of the ear flap. Be sure to only clean what you can see and avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.

  1. Repeat for the Other Ear

If necessary, repeat the process on the other ear. Remember to use a fresh cotton ball or gauze for each ear to prevent cross-contamination.

  1. Reward Your Dog

Once the cleaning is done, give your dog lots of praise and a treat. This helps reinforce positive behaviour and makes future ear cleanings easier for both of you.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?

How often you clean your dog’s ears depends on their breed, lifestyle, and ear health. Some dogs with clean ears may only need cleaning once a month, while others with more wax buildup or those prone to infections may need more frequent cleaning (e.g., once a week). Always consult your veterinarian for guidance specific to your dog’s needs.

 Signs You Should See a Vet

If you notice any of the following, it’s best to consult your vet rather than attempt cleaning:

– Persistent foul odour or discharge from the ears

– Redness, swelling, or pain

– Your dog constantly scratching or rubbing their ears

– Shaking their head excessively

– Any signs of hearing loss or balance issues

These could be signs of an ear infection, foreign object, or another issue that requires medical attention.

Tips for Successful Ear Cleaning

– Use an ear cleaner designed for dogs: Avoid using products meant for humans, as they may not be safe for pets.

– Be gentle: Your dog’s ears are sensitive, so be sure to clean them gently to avoid causing discomfort or damage.

– Create a positive experience: Make ear cleaning as stress-free as possible by offering treats, praise, and patience.

Regular ear cleaning is an essential part of keeping your dog healthy and comfortable, especially for breeds prone to ear infections. By following the proper steps and using the right products, you can safely and effectively clean your dog’s ears at home. If you ever have concerns about your dog’s ears or cleaning process, consult your veterinarian for advice and support.

Make an Appointment

Call Our Friendly Staff

Protect Your Pets and Save 20% on Vaccinations This Holiday Season!

As the year-end rush approaches and holiday plans take shape, it’s crucial to ensure your furry family members are happy, healthy, and ready to join the fun. From now until 31st December 2024, we’re offering a 20% discount on all pet vaccinations to help you prepare...

Top Tips for Traveling with Your Pet!

Planning a trip with your furry friend this Summer? Here are some quick tips to help make the journey smooth, safe, and stress-free for you and your pet! 🐶🐱 1. Prep Your Pet’s Travel Bag: Pack essentials like food, water, medications, waste bags, and a familiar...

BOAS Surgery in Dogs: Understanding the Procedure and Its Benefits

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a common condition affecting brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs. The distinctive facial structure that gives these dogs their cute appearance can lead to a variety of...

How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears: A Step-by-Step Guide

Regular ear cleaning is an important part of your dog’s overall health and grooming routine. While some dogs rarely need their ears cleaned, others, especially those with floppy ears or prone to ear infections, may require more frequent maintenance. Learning how to...

What to Do If Your Pet Has Fleas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding fleas on your pet can be an unpleasant surprise, but it’s a common issue that many pet owners face. Fleas are not only a nuisance for your furry friend, but they can also lead to health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are effective steps you can...

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

If you’ve ever watched your dog happily munching on grass, you may have wondered why they do it. As a pet owner, you might worry if this behaviour is normal or a sign of an underlying problem. Rest assured, dogs eating grass is a common phenomenon, and there are...

🐾 Is Your Dog Up to Date with Their Vaccinations? 🐾

Is your pooch up to date with their vaccinations? Just like us, dogs require regular vaccinations to help protect them against contagious and preventable disease. Your pet’s vaccination schedule will depend on their age, lifestyle and previous vaccination history....

Why Vets Recommend Twice-Yearly Check-Ups for Pets

As pet owners, we all want our furry companions to live long, healthy lives. One of the most important ways to ensure your pet's well-being is through regular veterinary check-ups. While many people think an annual visit is sufficient, veterinarians often recommend...

Bravery Award September 2024 – Sharpie the English Bull Terrier

It’s not unusual for Sharpie to skip her breakfast every now and again, but when she stopped eating her dinner and became lethargic, her Mum, Nurse Becc immediately became concerned (especially since she’s known for eating unfavourable items such as bark and toys!)...

Halloween and Pet Safety: How to Keep Your Furry Friends Safe During Spooky Season

Halloween is a time for fun, costumes, and candy, but it can also pose some hidden dangers for our pets. While you’re preparing for parties, trick-or-treaters, or a night of spooky festivities, it’s important to keep your pets’ safety in mind. From toxic treats to...