Dog Ear Cleaning Tips

Being a dog parent is fun. But it is also a task – cleaning the fur, keeping track of inoculations, grooming regularly, and maintaining clear ears and paws; the list goes on! Dog ears are one of the sensitive and significant parts of their body.

Ears are not just for hearing but also help track threats and danger. Maintaining a clean and healthy ear is imperative; you already know this as a dog owner.

However, every dog parent should know: cleaning your dog’s ears at home using simple tools, how frequently you should clean it, what symptoms indicate an ear infection, and many such queries.

Let’s read on the answer to all these questions and make it an easy grooming task for you and your fur friend.  

How to clean dog ears at home naturally

Yes! You can if you know the proper way of doing it. However, if you are new to pet hygiene and unsure about the procedure and method, you better seek medical help. You can always get in touch with your vet or professional canine groomers who know how to do ear cleaning.

Get the right cleaning tools and supplies before starting the process at home. Another approach is to observe when your dog groomer or vet is doing it and then do the same at home. Getting professional cleaning can go expensive – so try it yourself!

What are the tools you require for dog ear cleaning?

• Cotton balls or gauze
• Ear cleaner (vet-approved)
• Gloves
• Wet wipes and dry wipes
• Ointments and tropical solutions (in case of infection)
• Ear hair tweezer

What is the appropriate method for cleaning dog ears?

Before cleaning dog ears:

Always ensure that you proceed with the cleaning process during bath time or when you intend for a grooming session. Your fur friend must stay calm and not feel anxious about the whole ear-picking situation.

You can start the preparation a week before the cleaning by making your dog comfortable by touching and caressing near the ears. Dogs tend to get sensitive to ear touching and pin it back to the skull. If you find any discomfort, then be patient and slower the process.

During the dog ear cleaning:

You can let the dog hold a cuddle toy or help them stay calm with a chewy toy throughout the process. Ensure that the dog relaxes and lets you finish the cleaning. Hold the ear flap firmly and let it open wide so you can access the area fully.

Start by cleaning the area with a cotton ball using the ear cleaner. You can avail of the cleaning solution from the vet or also online. The cleaning process is messy, so it is advisable to do it during the bath or with a large towel over your lap.

Your dog’s ear cleaning can turn dirty. So, wear gloves throughout the process. Ensure all the filth and ear gunk fall on the floor and do not get trapped in her body coat. Drop a few drops of the ear cleaner in their ear and let it make its way through the ear canal.

You can gently massage the outer ear to ensure that the ear solution helps break the gunk. Let your dog shake his ear after this process; you will find debris flying off your ears. Be gentle in cleaning the outer canal of the ear with a wet wipe.

You can also use medicated wipes. It will ensure safer and deeper cleaning. Avoid using Q-tips as it is dangerous and not advisable. Check with your wet for any ear infections and treat them accordingly. If you are sure about it, gently wipe out the ears and apply the ointment well.

After cleaning:

Treat your dog with his favorite snack for being a great pet. Thoroughly check their body and fur for any ear debris and gunk. If the cleaning was during the bath, use a dry wipe. Gently clean the ear lobes.

Use a dry towel to pat dry your fur friend. Avoid using perfumed oils and lotions on your dog. If you feel the dog has smelly ears, it is a sign of infection.

You can also trim off the extra fur that grows inside the ear lobes for better cleaning and maintenance. You can use the hair trimmer or tweezers to pluck the hair out.

How frequently should you clean dog ears?

The simple answer is every time they bathe or get the grooming session. Ear cleaning is as regular as trimming their nails or cleaning the fur coat.

Canines tend to get ear infections and parasites frequently if they are active outdoors. Look for the signs and take immediate action before it turns miserable-

• Frequent scratching of ears using their paws.
• Redness, swelling, rashes, or any discharge (dry or wet).
• Tilting of the head or struggling to balance the body while walking.
• Deafness or not responding to you.
• Sensitivity to touch or reluctance to allow you to pet near that area.
• A sharp whining or bark when you touch near the ears.

The wrap

Your dog may experience a heavy wax deposit in the ear canal and outer lobe infections. Always do a regular and thorough inspection of their ear and nearby area.

Avoid treating the infections using home remedies. Always seek medical help for the right cure.