How to Know if a Dog's Ears Are Dirty

Your dog's ears are exposed to more dirt than you might think. Ear type, shape and hair density determine how easily these irritants enter and vacate the ear. Erect ears, like those of German Shepherds and West Highland Terriers, expose the outer and middle ear to the air, encouraging evaporation or at least offering a outlet for stray particles. Alternatively, the droopy ears of dogs like the cocker spaniel or basset hound get dirty easily because their shape traps debris and moisture inside, leading to irritation and infection. Recognizing when your dog has dirty ears is the first step to proper cleaning and preventing infection.

Things You'll Need

  • Flashlight
  • Cotton swab
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Flip back the ear flap, or check the non-fur side of the outer erect ear. The skin immediately inside the ear flap should be smooth, pink and slightly oily. Inflammation, redness or unpleasant odor indicate infection or a buildup of dirt within the ear canal.

    • 2

      Point the flashlight inside your dog's ear. The vertical ear canal lies just inside the ear, directly after a range of small, protective, curvy muscles. Thick discharge, dark, waxy buildup or bleeding indicates the presence of contaminating irritants or infection.

    • 3

      Stroke the hair inside the ear with a cotton swab and examine the surface for blood, dark discharge or heavy wax buildup. The dark, long ear hair of dogs such as poodles makes dirt, debris and infection-related discharge difficult to see. A quick swipe against a white cotton swab will reveal any dirt inside your dog's ears.