Home Remedy for a Dog Ear Wash

Things to Keep in Mind

• While several common homemade dog ear wash recipes list either isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as ingredients, vets are now advising against their use. Peroxide can destroy healthy tissue, so none of these recipes contains it. Alcohol can cause burning in a scratch, but if you're sure your dog's ears are healthy and he doesn't mind cold liquids in his ears, use it with caution.

Proper Application

• Don't spray an ear wash directly into Fido's ears. Spray some on a cotton ball and rub it on the surfaces of the inside of your dog's ears. Massage under her ears for a minute then let her shake her head.

  Mix together four ounces of rubbing alcohol, two tablespoons of boric acid, and one tablespoon of glycerin. Shake the ingredients in a small spray bottle. This solution kills germs, repels pests that have taken up residence in the ears and soothes any irritation.

White Vinegar

• White vinegar kills germs and eliminates any odors from the buildup caused by pests. It is also recommended for helping clear up any yeast infections that may be lurking.

  One part rubbing alcohol and one part white vinegar shaken together and then applied to the inside of your dog's ears will kill off any nasties that are tormenting him.

Gentian Blue Ear Wash

• Another simple formula uses 16 ounces of witch hazel, four tablespoons of boric acid, and 16 drops of gentian blue, which can be found at a pharmacy. Shake all ingredients together and apply to inner side of your dog's ear.

Betadine Solution

• For treating ear infections (with your veterinarian's approval, of course), mix three parts of mineral oil to one part Betadine Solution. Shake well. Use a dropper to place 1.5 ml. in each ear. Rub your dog's lower ears for a few minutes, and then let him shake his head. This is a good wash because it doesn't contain alcohol, but it may still sting if he has open scratches in his ears.