Ear Care for your Pet - Dogs - Baldivis Vet Hospital

Ear Care for your Pet – Dogs

To keep your dog’s ears healthy, regularly clean them with a dog-specific ear cleaner, avoiding cotton swabs, and consult your vet if you suspect an infection or excessive wax buildup.

Here’s a more detailed guide to dog ear care:

1. Regular Cleaning:

Frequency: How often you need to clean your dog’s ears depends on their breed, coat type, age, and wax production.
Normal dogs: Twice a month is generally fine.
Dogs with floppy ears or those that swim often: May need more frequent cleaning.
Signs of needing cleaning: Excessive wax, dirt, or a musty odor.
Never use cotton swabs: They can push wax and debris deeper into the ear canal.

2. How to Clean:

Use a dog-specific ear cleaner: Avoid using human ear cleaners, as they may not be safe for dogs.
Apply the cleaner: Follow the product instructions, but generally, apply the cleaner to the ear canal and gently massage the base of the ear.
Let your dog shake their head: This helps loosen debris.
Wipe away debris: Use cotton pads or gauze to gently wipe away any remaining debris.
Focus on the outer ear canal and ear flap: Clean the inside of the ear flap as well.

3. Identifying Problems:

Signs of ear problems:
- Excessive head shaking or scratching at the ears.
- Redness, inflammation, or swelling of the ears.
- Pus or discharge from the ears.
- Musty or unpleasant odor from the ears.
- Pain or discomfort when touching the ears.
If you suspect an ear infection or other problem: Consult your veterinarian immediately.

4. Products to Consider:

Dog-specific ear cleaners
Ear wipes

5. General Tips:

Make ear cleaning a positive experience: Offer treats and praise during the process.
Be gentle: Your dog’s ears are sensitive, so be sure to clean them gently.
Consult your veterinarian: If you have any concerns about your dog’s ears or cleaning process.
Keep ears dry: Especially after swimming or bathing