Whether you should clean your dog’s ears regularly depends on your dog and his ear shape. Dogs with longer ears might need more cleaning, but for all dogs, it is important that you regularly check their ears, as dogs can develop an ear infection.
1. Frequency
Before you grab the ear-cleaning solution, check if your dog’s ears need cleaning. If you have a dog with long, floppy ears, a dog who swims often, a dog who plays in the dirt or a dog with hairy ear canals, he probably needs regular ear cleaning. But be careful – overcleaning a dog’s ears can also be harmful. If you’re not sure whether you should clean your dog’s ears, ask your vet.
2. Supplies
Before you start, get everything ready, including:
- Vet-approved ear-cleaning solution
- Cotton balls or wipes
- Treats or other rewards
3. Cleaning process
If your dog is not used to having his ears cleaned or if he is uncomfortable, ask someone to help you by holding him to ensure that he does not choke but also cannot wiggle free. You don’t want to hurt your dog or his ears in the process.
Read the instructions on the ear-cleaning solution carefully. Lightly hold one ear in your hand and fill the ear canal according to the instructions using your other hand. Massage the base of your dog’s ear and his ear canal gently. Be gentle throughout the process, and keep in mind that his ears are very sensitive to touch and sound.
You can wipe off the excess cleaning solution with a cotton ball or wipe. Repeat the process with the other ear.
4. Shake it
Let your dog go and allow him to shake his head and ears, thus removing excess solution and ear wax from his ears. This will create a mess, so either have a towel ready or work in an area that will be easy to clean. Give him a treat for being such a good boy during the process.
Don’t clean your dog’s ears if:
- His ears are red and inflamed.
- He has damage to his ear drums.
- He has an injury on or inside his ears.
- His ears are painful.
- There’s a bad odour coming from them.
