How to Apply Canine Ear Drops

If your dog's ears look dirty or have a slightly musty odor to them this may indicate the need to use ear drops to clean your dog's ears or treat them for ear mites.

Applying ear drops to your dog is a regular grooming task that will help your pet maintain a healthy and happy life.

Things You'll Need

  • Someone to hold your dog
  • Cotton balls
  • Medication
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ask the person assisting you to hold your dog still while it is sitting. Using one hand, gently pull up your dog's ear to expose the underside. Moisten a cotton ball with water and gently clean the outer edge of your dog's ear.

    • 2

      Apply the recommended dose of ear drops in your dog's ear, following the directions on the medicine dispenser.

    • 3

      Put the flap of your dog's ear down and rub the ear in a gentle downward motion for two minutes to help the medication to move into the ear canal.

    • 4
      Use cotton to clean the underside of your dog's ear before applying the ear drops.

      Repeat the same steps on your dog's other ear.

    • 5
      Give your dog a treat so it will associate this task with food rather than being uncomfortable.

      Give your dog a treat as a reward for good behavior once you are done applying the drops so it will relate this task with food rather than an uncomfortable procedure.