Checking your dog's ears and cleaning them can help eliminate the potential for infection. Take a look inside your dog's ears at least once a week. Attempt to check your dog's ears when he is not active, because he may resist and think you are playing. If your dog's ears appear to have a rash or swollen, he may have an infection. Take your dog to the vet immediately if this happens so action can be taken. Keeping your dog's ears clean is very important to avoid these potential problems. It's in your, and your dog's, best interest to always clean them.
Instructions
Ensure that your dog is sitting on a stable surface like the couch or a bed to make sure he is comfortable. Do not chase your dog to clean her ears, as you could hurt her. Offer your dog a treat she can enjoy to distract her while you check her ears.
Lift up his ears so you can see inside. Try to be in a well-lit area to have a better view, or use a flashlight. Examine the ears for any kinds of infections such as swelling or cuts. Take your dog to a vet if you come across any of those signs.
Use a cotton ball and soak it with some ear-cleaning solution to clean the outside of your dog's ears. Begin by wiping the outer part of your dogs ear with the cotton ball. Let your dog get used to the sensation before going any further inside to prevent her from trying to move. Wipe further into the ears, but only wipe into the ears as far as you can see. Don't push the cotton down into the ear canal. If your dog shakes or moves during ear cleaning, you can accidentally move too far into the ear and cause more problems.
Clean the inside of your dogs ears using an ear-cleaning solution. This is used to clean deeper into the ear, where you shouldn't attempt to clean with a cotton ball. Always read the directions on the ear-cleaning solution that you are using. Squeeze the recommended drops into your dog's ears. Slowly rub at the base of your dog's ears to help the liquid flow deeper into the ear. Let the cleaner rest for a minute or two. Once your done, let your dog shake her head, or use a dry cotton ball to wipe out the moisture.
Reward your dog with a bone or treat for being good, and give your dog's ears some extra rubbing as they may be itchy. Constantly monitor the ears.