How Should You Clean A Dog’s Ears?

They accumulate all sorts of dirt, can become the ideal environment for fungus and bacteria that cause infections, and are a major source of bad odor in your pet. That’s why, in the following article, we’ll give you some advice on how to clean a dog’s ears and avoid discomfort and illness.

Tips on how to clean a dog’s ears

Some people aren’t thrilled to clean a dog’s ears and go to the veterinarian or a pet store to do the job. However, it is possible to do this at home without any problems, saving time and money (provided the animal’s ears are not infected or injured).

It is very important to monitor the hygiene of the animal’s ears every week, especially if, due to the breed, they have them upside down or “glued” to the head (as happens, for example, with Cocker Spaniels).

Check out the step-by-step and advice on how to clean a dog’s ears:

1. Inspect the condition of the ears

It is normal for them to secrete a little wax and for dirt to accumulate in that area. If you see any yellowish, gray or light brown material, as well as blood (clotted or not), take it to the vet. If he has never cleaned his ear canal, this is a good opportunity for the specialist to do this cleaning.

Source: Gabriel Garcia Marengo

2. Look for foreign elements

Parasites, like ticks, seek to lodge in dogs’ ears. There, the pet does not “reach” with its teeth. If your dog goes outside, skims on the grass, or does his chores near trees, you may also find herbs, flowers, or even seeds in his ears. Either way, you’ll have to remove them gently.

3. Detect bacterial or fungal infections

When this happens, the animal’s ears give off an unpleasant odor and brown or green secretions can be noticed. This may require the administration of a special topical medication. Cleaning by itself does not cure and could even worsen the animal’s condition.

4. Use special products

At Pet Shops, you can find a multitude of products to clean a dog’s ears. Another option is to make a homemade mixture with products you have at home, such as alcohol and apple cider vinegar (combine them in equal doses at room temperature). Do not use any homemade cleanser in case of infection or irritation, as it can worsen the condition.

5. Use cotton and water

Often a little warm water and a cotton ball is enough to clean a dog’s ears. Rub slowly, not exerting too much pressure, but with enough force to loosen the dirt from the spot.

6. Don’t forget the ears

After you have finished cleaning the ear canal, move to the outside of the ear. Use another cotton ball and warm water. Be careful to avoid hurting the skin, and don’t use alcohol or vinegar if he has any injuries, as it will sting and it will be very difficult for him to let them clean his ears again.

6. Moisten your ears if necessary

Consult your veterinarian as, in some cases, dogs can produce more wax than usual and you need to moisten the area with a special liquid or warm water. Once the ear canal is moistened, gently rub the base of the ear for 1 minute. With gauze or cotton, wipe off any dirt that appears.

7. Let the dog shake itself

When you’re done cleaning, your pet will want to shake its head to get rid of all that liquid or dirt that has been left in its ears. Let him do this, because he will finish the cleaning task you had started himself. Just step back so you don’t get dirty. And don’t forget to clean the room thoroughly afterwards. We recommend that, for this task, you choose the service area, terrace, balcony, bathroom or garden.

8. Keep the routine

It is very important to schedule a cleaning at least every month. Not to forget, you can mark it on your calendar or set off the alarm on your cell phone. And, if necessary, anticipate the date for cleaning the ears, if the animal has been to the park more than usual, has had contact with water, has wallowed in the puddle after the rain, etc.