How to Clean My Poodle's Ear With White Vinegar and Water

Poodle's ears droop over the ear canal, which can prevent air from getting inside the ear to help dry it out. When the ear canal becomes damp, moist bacteria can grow there and possibly cause an infection if it stays damp for too long. It is also common for hair to grow inside a poodle's ears. Hair inside the poodle's ear canal can trap wax on the inside, which can also lead to problems. Clean your poodle's ears on a regular basis with white vinegar and water so its ears will stay clean and healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 8 oz. plastic squirt bottle
  • Cotton balls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour 1/4 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup water into the 8 oz. squirt bottle and tighten down the cap. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients.

    • 2

      Command the poodle to sit. Kneel down to the poodle's level. Rub the poodle's ears gently to allow the poodle to get used to having its ears touched.

    • 3

      Choose an ear and work on one ear at a time. Lift the ear flap and look into the ear. Check for hair in the ear and pluck any hairs before applying the vinegar solution.

    • 4

      Apply the white vinegar and water solution to a cotton ball. Swab the outer area of the ear with the solution, rubbing gently to remove any dirt or wax.

    • 5

      Squirt a small amount of solution near the ear hole. Massage the base of the ear to work the solution a little deeper into the ear. Step back and allow your poodle to shake its head to clear its ear. Wipe away any excess solution with a cotton ball.

    • 6

      Repeat with the other ear.

    • 7

      Clean your poodle's ears every four weeks or more often if necessary.