Professional Ear Cleaning

According to Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, "Dogs have many more ear problems than cats." Floppy-eared dogs have even more chance of problems. Hair growing near or inside the ear canal inhibits air flow, collects moisture and invites infection. Professional ear cleaning requires training but with the proper supplies, much can be done to keep your dog's ears clean and dry.

  1. Dry

    • Trimming the hair around and just inside your dog's ear allows air to flow freely. If your dog will tolerate it, use tweezers to pluck hairs blocking the opening of the ear canal. The more air circulating in the ear canal the better. Dogs' ear canals are longer than human ear canals and then make a 90-degree turn, creating more opportunity for moisture and an increasing chance of infection. The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary medicine recommends using a blow dryer set on low to dry wet ears. Keeping your dogs ears dry will help prevent ear problems.

    Clean

    • Cleaning a dog's ears requires cotton balls, cotton swabs, tweezers and an ear wash solution, according to Washington State College. Use cotton balls to clean the ear flap and around the inside of the ear. Clean inside the ear by inserting the cotton swab but not more than 1/2 inch.

      Choose an ear wash with care. ̶0;A variety of ear cleaners are available and your veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate ear cleanser for your pet to use during their regular grooming routine," says Dr. M.A. Crist, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Your vet can also determine how often your dog's ears need cleaning.

    Restrain

    • Your dog might not like having her ears cleaned. Professional dog groomers are trained in restraining dogs of all sizes. If you clean her ears yourself, develop a strategy for restraining your dog. Place the dog on a table facing away from you--target ear up--and wrap one arm under and around her head. If necessary clasp the bottom front leg with that same arm. If your dog still refuses to cooperate, ask for help but muzzle your dog if there is any chance she might bite.

    Warning

    • "Excessive ear cleaning can be damaging to the ear," warns Washington State's College of Veterinary Medicine.