Tips for Cleaning Dog Ears

Regular ear cleaning can help prevent ear infection or the contraction of ear mites in your dog. Dogs have large ear canals, which means they are more prone to developing ear infections. Ear infections may be caused by high winds while your dog is outside or by excess water in the ear canal. Dogs with floppy ears are especially prone to infections as the floppy ear reduces air circulation and traps moisture. This could result in a fungus or yeast infection. Dogs who frequently shake their heads or paw or scratch at their ears may have an infection. You can prevent ear infections by cleaning your dog's ears on a regular basis.

  1. Check For Infection

    • As part of your regular grooming process you should clean your dog's ears weekly. Before you begin you should always check its ears for any signs of infection including a discharge, foul odor, hair loss, crusty skin or swelling in or near the ear. If you notice any of these signs contact your veterinarian. In addition, you can also make the ear-cleaning process run smooth if you practice petting the dog while handling his ears. Consistent handling of the ears will make it easier when it's time to clean its ears, as the dog will be familiar with having them touched.

    Use A Restraint

    • You may want to have someone hold your dog for you while you clean his ears. It is especially easier to have help when dealing with larger dogs, as someone else can hold the body and legs. If you have a small dog you can restrain it by wrapping it in a large thick towel with just its head exposed.

    Deal With Fussiness or Pain

    • Some dogs do not like to have their ears cleaned because it is uncomfortable. This can make the process difficult. PetEducation.com notes, "Talking to him during the process, stopping momentarily to give him a treat if he is doing well and doing something fun afterwards may all help." If you are still unable to clean its ears the process may be too painful for the dog. You should not continue as you could rupture an eardrum or cause a tearing of the ear canal. Contact your veterinarian if you are unable to clean your dog's ears on your own.

    Apply Any Medications

    • When you are finished you must wait for the dog's ears to be dry before you apply any prescribed ear medications.

    Warning

    • Do not clean your dog's ears so much that it causes irritation. It's also important not to insert anything into your dog's ear canal. In addition, cotton applicator swabs should not be used down the ear canal as it may only pack debris in the ear canal instead of removing it. However, cotton applicators can be used to clean inside the ear flap.