Canine Ear Cleaning

Why is ear cleaning important?

Ear cleaning is an important part of your dog’s grooming needs. Some dogs need more frequent ear cleaning than others. Dogs that are prone to ear infections often benefit from more frequent ear cleanings.

The structure of the dog’s ear canal makes it difficult for material trapped deep within the horizontal canal to be expelled without the assistance of cleanings. This material can lead to itchiness and ear infections if not removed.

Do I need to use an ear cleaner?

It is highly recommended to use a good-quality ear cleaner. Cleaners with hydrogen peroxide or alcohol can cause irritation in the ear canal, especially if the canal is inflamed or ulcerated. Some ear cleaners have antibacterial or antifungal ingredients to help prevent ear infections. Certain cleaners are also better at removing wax build-up. Your veterinarian can help you decide which ear-cleaning solution is best for your pet.

What do I need to clean my dog’s ears?

You do not need any special equipment to clean your dog’s ears. All you need is a good-quality ear cleaning solution, some cotton balls or gauze, and some treats to reward your dog. Do not use cotton-tipped applicators (Q-tips®), due to the risk of puncturing the ear drum or causing trauma to the ear canal. In addition, cotton-tipped applicators can push debris further into the ear canal.

Do all dogs need to have their ears cleaned?

No, not all dogs need their ears cleaned. While it is important to clean your dog’s ears when needed, over-cleaning may cause irritation in the ear canal, which can lead to infection. Some dogs that have healthy, clean ears may never need to have their ears cleaned. However, it is recommended to clean your dog’s ears if you notice discharge or an odor when examining the ear. Your veterinarian can help you decide how often your dog’s ears should be cleaned. If your dog’s ears are red, inflamed, or painful, consult with your veterinarian prior to cleaning. Your dog may have an ear infection or a ruptured ear drum.

How do I clean my dog’s ears?

1. Get into position.

• For a large dog: Have your dog sit with their rear end in the corner of a room, with one side against the wall. Stand on their other side.

• For a medium-sized dog: Sit on the floor and have your dog sit in front of you, with their rear end between your legs.

• For a small dog: Sit the dog on your lap with their back to your chest/stomach.
  

2. Hold the ear cleaning solution in your dominant hand.

3. With your other hand, gently but firmly grasp the flap of the ear and pull the ear flap straight up to expose the ear and straighten the ear canal.

4. Squeeze some ear cleaning solution into your dog’s ear. Use enough cleaner to completely fill the ear canal. It is fine if some of the cleaner spills out of the ear canal. Do not put the tip of the bottle into the ear. If the tip of the bottle touches your dog’s ear, wipe the tip with a clean cotton ball soaked in alcohol to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast.

5. Continue to hold the ear flap straight up with one hand and gently massage the base of the ear below the ear opening for about 30 seconds with the other hand. You should hear a “squishing” sound as the cleaning solution moves around and breaks up debris in the horizontal part of the ear canal.

6. While still holding up the ear flap, wipe away debris from the inner part of the ear flap and the upper ear canal using a cotton ball or gauze. What you can see or reach with your finger is safe to remove.

7. Allow your dog to shake his head. Shaking allows the remaining ear cleaning solution and debris to move out of the ear canal to the outer opening of the ear.

8. Once again, hold the ear flap up and remove the loosened debris and cleaning solution from the outer opening of the ear canal using a cotton ball or gauze.

9. Remove any debris and remaining cleaning solution from inside the ear canal with a cotton ball or gauze

10. Praise your dog and provide treats.

11. Repeat the same process with the other ear. If your dog appears to be in pain during the cleaning process, stop and consult your veterinarian.

12. Repeat the cleaning procedure as often as is recommended by your veterinarian.

If your dog has an ear infection and requires medication to be applied to the ears, clean the ears first, wait approximately 5-10 minutes and then apply the medication. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cleaning your dog’s ears may seem like a self-explanatory process, but this isn’t always the case. Avoid making these common mistakes to help ensure your dog’s ears stay clean and healthy:

• Not using enough ear cleaner. You may think you only need to use a few drops of veterinary ear cleaner, but you’ll need more for the product to be fully effective. When pouring the solution into your dog’s ear, keep going until you can see the liquid pooling at the opening of the ear canal.
  

• Cleaning ears that may be infected. If your dog’s ears look inflamed or have an odor, you might be tempted to clean them to help relieve your dog’s discomfort. However, cleaning an already infected ear often causes more harm than good. If you believe your dog has an ear infection, take them to see their vet who can properly diagnose and treat the condition.
  

• Over-cleaning your dog’s ears. There is such a thing as too much cleaning when it comes to your dogs’ ears. Cleaning your dog’s ears too often can irritate the skin or cause further complications. If you have questions about your dog’s specific needs, talk to your veterinarian.