How to Keep Water out of a Dog's Ears During a Bath

If your dog is like mine, after her bath she runs around the house frantically running her ears against the floor and shaking her head. She hates getting water in her ears. Besides being an annoyance to your animal, water in your dog's ear can lead to ear infections and costly vet trips. It's easy to keep water out of your dog's ears when bathing her at home. A few simple changes to your bath-time routine will make your dog much more comfortable and the process of bath time much easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Washcloth Dog shampoo Cotton balls Cup or other container
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Instructions

    • 1

      Run water in the bath tub or sink for your dog to stand in. Putting your dog's head under running water is the most common way to get water in her ears. Standing water is calmer and and more pleasant for your pet. She will fight less and be less distressed.

    • 2

      Place clean cotton balls inside your dog's ears. This will protect her ears should they come in contact with the water. They act as a stopper, keeping water out and absorbing water around the ears, rather than letting it flow inside.

    • 3

      Wet a washcloth and add dog shampoo to it. Use it to gently wipe and clean your dog's head and face. This prevents the need to pour water of the dog's head. It cleans the head and face without getting water inside the ears or in the mouth, nose and eyes. This is a more natural action than your dog is used to, kind of like petting. By using the washcloth method, there is no need to submerge the head.

    • 4

      Use a cup to rinse the soap from the rest of the dog's body. This allows for more control over where the water is going and how much you are using. Sprayers can accidentally spray in your dog's ears and face.

    • 5

      Remove the cotton balls and wrap your dog in a dry towel as you take her out of the bath. Let her shake the water off. This is her natural instinct. It will also shake loose any water that may have accidentally entered the ear canal. Dry your dog with the towel, and you are done! You have a clean dog with no ear discomfort.