Dog Ear Care 101: Tips for Healthier Ears and Happier Pups

Dogs rely heavily on their ears for crucial functions like hearing, balance, and communication. Given their significance to overall health, it becomes imperative for pet parents to prioritize the cleanliness of their dogs' ears and understand the reasons behind the need for regular ear care. Let’s explore the reasons why staying on top of your dog’s ear cleaning routine is so important!

Why do dogs need their ears cleaned?

Prevents Ear Infections

Due to the shape of dogs’ ears, they are more susceptible to ear infections due to the buildup of plaque and debris. Failure to remove these substances can lead to bacterial and yeast growth, causing painful infections with symptoms like head shaking, ear itching, and discharge. Regular cleaning helps stave off ear infections and keep your dog’s ears happy and healthy!

Helps Prevent Ear Mites

Tiny parasites known as ear mites can infest a dog's ears, causing irritation, inflammation, and discharge. Untreated, these mites can inflict serious damage to the ear canal and pave the way for infections. Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly in conjunction with veterinary care and prescribed medication can help prevent ear mites.

Can Improve Hearing

Dogs' sensitive ears can easily be affected by the buildup of substances in the ear canal, potentially blocking it and compromising their hearing. Regular ear cleaning aids in removing debris, promoting improved hearing and overall ear health.

Cleaning your dog’s ears

Now you know how important it is to clean your dog’s ears, let's learn how to clean them! 

Prepare

Opt for a gentle ear cleaning solution specifically designed for dogs, a vet or dog wellness expert can suggest the best type for your breed. Other tools you may need include a gauze pad, cotton balls, and towels. Never use cotton swabs to clean your dog’s ears! This can push debris farther in and cause trauma to the ear. Quick Tip! Ear cleaning wipes designed for dogs are another easy way to clean their ears.

Inspect

Lift your dog's ear flap gently and inspect for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you see signs of trauma or infection in your pup’s ears bring them to the vet right away to avoid pain and more potential issues.

Apply Ear Cleaning Solution

Squeeze a small amount of the ear-cleaning solution into the ear canal. Be careful not to touch the inner ear canal with the tip of the bottle! This can introduce bacteria and cause trauma, irritation, and infection.

Massage Gently

Massage gently in small circles at the base of the ear to help loosen any debris.

Allow Head Shaking

Allow your dog to shake their head to facilitate the removal of the cleaning solution and loosened debris.

Wipe Clean

Use a clean, dry cloth or cotton balls to gently wipe the inside of the ear, removing any remaining dirt or cleaning solution. Never insert anything into the ear canal to prevent potential damage.

Regularly cleaning your dog's ears is a simple yet crucial step in ensuring their overall health and wellness. By remaining attentive to your dog's ear health, you are contributing to their comfort and overall wellness. Having a routine hygiene plan for your dog will also help you stay on top of their overall wellness; including ear health! All of our Care Club Memberships come with a Basic Hygiene package which includes a bath with towel-dry, ear cleaning, nail trim, and teeth brushing. Find a Scenter near you today and get your pup on the path the wellness!