How to Clean a Dog's Floppy & Smelly Ears

Dogs with floppy ears get ear infection more easily than dogs with erect ears. The ears need air circulation to remain fresh and healthy, and an odor emanating from the ear is often an indication of trouble. Ear mites, fungal or yeast infections, or an accumulation of ear wax to protect the ear drum from particles of dirt can end up smelling sour. If the cause of the odor is not resolved, your dog could end up with painful, swollen ears, a serious infection and even hearing loss. Clean floppy, smelly ears once a week to prevent problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton swabs
  • Soft cloth or tissue paper
  • Mineral or tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar / rubbing alcohol solution
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the cause of the odor before trying to clean the ears. Different problems may require different solutions, and using the wrong product may make the problem worse.

    • 2

      Observe your dog's actions to see if it shakes its head, carries its head to one side or tries to scratch its ears. This could indicate the presence of water or a foreign object in the ear, which upsets the dog's balance and irritates the ears.

    • 3

      Fondle the dog's ears and watch how it reacts, before you attempt to clean its ears. If it winces and pulls away, it means the ears are painful and there is a possibility of infection. If it pushes its head against your hand in a way of asking for more, it could indicate that the ears are itching, a common symptom of ear mites.

    • 4

      Lay the dog on its side to prepare it for the ear cleaning. Position yourself along the back of the dog and place your arm over it to hold it in place. Encourage it to remain in this still position by giving it a scratch and a cuddle while in position.

    • 5

      Take a cotton tip applicator or a cotton swab and hold the topmost ear open. Gently insert the cotton swab into the outer ear as far as you can without using pressure. You should not push the cotton swab farther than you can see, otherwise you may injure the sensitive tissues of the ear.

    • 6

      Run the cotton swab gently around the sides of the ear and withdraw it. Check it to see if the cotton swab has light brown ear wax, blood, yellow or green mucus, or dark -- almost black -- particles, which could be dried blood.

    • 7

      Use another cotton swab dipped in tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide or equal parts of vinegar or rubbing alcohol to clean out waxy ears if you see no signs of infection. If you see blood or mucus, consult a veterinarian before using anything, as the dog may need antibiotics and a medicated cleanser.

    • 8

      Wipe the inside of the ear clean with a soft cloth or tissue dipped in mineral oil. This will remove any dirt or debris on the inside of the ear flap and stop it entering the ear.

    • 9

      Finish the session with a treat. This will make your next session easier and will calm the dog if it seems stressed by the procedure.