Cleaning your ears might be part of your daily or weekly self-care routine, but did you know your dog might need similar care?
Just like humans, dogs’ ears should be cleaned regularly to remove earwax buildup, hair growth, and general dirt and grime. Earwax buildup in dogs can lead to health issues, such as itchiness and ear infections, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.
Whether your dog’s ears are pointy or floppy, here’s a guide to keeping them clean:
How to Clean a Dog’s Ears
Before you start, make sure you have the right supplies. Purina recommends having the following handy:
-A dog-specific ear cleanser
-Damp cotton balls or pads
-A towel
-Treats
-An extra set of hands (if your dog doesn’t sit still)
Avoid using cotton swabs when cleaning your dog’s ears: They could push debris deeper into the ear canal, according to the Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center at Cornell University. Never use hydrogen peroxide as an ear cleanser, as it can irritate healthy skin cells, the American Kennel Club (AKC) advises. Use a veterinarian-approved product specifically designed for dogs’ ears.
Three-Step Process to Clean Your Dog’s Ears
The Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center at Cornell University outlines a three-step process for cleaning your dog’s ears:
1. Add Ear Cleaner
Depending on your dog’s ear type, hold the ear between your fingers so you can properly see the canal. Purina recommends wiping the entrance with a cloth to remove excess dirt and wax before inserting the cleaner. Then gently place the tip of the cleanser bottle above your dog’s ear canal. If your dog cannot handle the solution being applied directly into the ear, you can saturate cotton balls with the cleanser and place them inside the canal.
2. Massage the Ear
After adding the cleaner, gently massage the base of your dog’s ear for approximately 30 seconds, as recommended by the American Kennel Club. If you hear a squishing sound, that means the product is working to remove any buildup or debris. Once you’re done, let your dog shake its head to remove excess cleaner and debris. Have a towel ready to prevent a mess.
3. Wipe the Ear Canal
Use damp cotton balls or gauze to wipe away any remaining dirt and grime. Only insert the cleaning tool “as far as your finger can easily fit,” according to the Canine Health Center. This is typically about one knuckle deep, then work your way out toward the ear flap.
Be sure to dry your dog’s head and reward them with a treat afterward.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?
You should only clean your dog’s ears when they appear dirty. Over-cleaning can lead to irritation or infection of the ear canal, the American Kennel Club advises.
A healthy and clean dog’s ear should be pink, odorless, and not dirty or inflamed. If it has an odor, particularly a yeasty one, it’s a sign that your dog’s ears need cleaning, according to the American Kennel Club.
Different dog breeds require different levels of ear care. Dogs with long ears, such as beagles or cocker spaniels, are more prone to ear infections, reports the American Kennel Club. Cleaning a dog’s ears can help prevent infections but is not a treatment for them.
If you suspect your dog might have an ear infection, fleas, ear mites, or an allergic reaction, consult a veterinarian.
How Do I Know If My Dog Has an Ear Infection?
If your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms, contact your veterinarian:
-Redness in the ear
-Itching in one or both ears
-Excessive head shaking
-Discharge or increased wax buildup in the ear
-Unpleasant odor
-Discomfort when the ear is touched
How to Administer Ear Medication for Dogs
If your veterinarian prescribes an ear medication, they will provide specific instructions on how and how often to apply it.
However, here is a general guide on how to administer ear medication to dogs, according to VCA Animal Hospitals:
1.Hold your dog’s ear to expose and straighten the canal.
2.Apply the medication as per the veterinarian’s instructions, avoiding placing the bottle’s tip directly into your dog’s ear to prevent spreading bacteria or yeast.
3.Hold the ear vertically and massage its base for around 30 seconds.
4.Repeat the process for the other ear.
By following these steps, you can help keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy, ensuring their overall well-being.
