Instructions
Check the inside of the ear --- it should be pink and clean. Any liquid discharge or strong odor should warrant a trip to the vet.
Check to see if there is any debris, such as dirt, grass or a sheltie's own hair, in the ear or blocking the ear canal. If so, clean out what you can without reaching too deeply into the dog's ears. Ear infections can be caused by blockages from debris in the ears and may be treated with antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.
Check for ear mites. Mites can burrow into an ear and live off the wax and oils for up to three weeks. Symptoms of ear mites include dark brown discharge, odor, inflammation, head shaking and excessive ear-scratching. Though ear mites are highly contagious, they can be removed with medication.
Wipe the pink exterior of the ears with a cotton swab once each week, if there is no discharge or odor.
Instructions for Sheltie Ears
While shetland sheepdogs are not a breed affected much by ear infections or other ear diseases, being generally aware of issues that affect the ears can boost the health of your dog. Even if a dog is only shaking its head or scratching at its ears, check the problem out. It might warrant a trip to the vet. To be aware of all aspects of a dog's health, ears included, is to provide a safer, healthier atmosphere for your dog to live in.