How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears: A Step-by-Step Guide

I. Preparation

A. Materials

• Cotton balls or gauze pads
• Ear cleaner solution
• Treats

B. Safety Considerations

• Restrain your dog securely to prevent them from moving suddenly and causing injury.
• Never insert anything into your dog’s ear canal, as this can damage the ear drum or cause infection.

II. Examination

A. Inspect Ears for Signs of Infection or Irritation

• Look for redness, swelling, discharge, or any other abnormalities.
• Check if your dog is scratching at their ears excessively or shaking their head.

B. Check for Foreign Objects

• Gently pull back your dog’s ear flap and inspect the ear canal for any visible objects, such as grass, seeds, or insects.

C. Assess Level of Earwax Buildup

• Use a cotton ball or gauze pad to gently wipe the outer ear flap and entrance of the ear canal.
• If the cotton ball or gauze pad comes away with excessive earwax, it may indicate a need for cleaning.

III. Cleaning

A. Apply Ear Cleaner Solution

• Fill the ear canal with the ear cleaner solution, holding the bottle upright and squeezing gently.
• Gently massage the base of the ear for 30-60 seconds to distribute the solution and loosen earwax.

B. Wipe Away Debris

• Use cotton balls or gauze pads to absorb excess solution and debris from the ear canal.
• Gently wipe the outer ear flap as well to remove any excess solution or debris.
• Avoid pushing the cotton balls or gauze pads too far into the ear canal, as this can cause discomfort or damage.

IV. Drying

A. Use a Clean, Dry Cotton Ball or Gauze Pad to Absorb Any Remaining Moisture

• After cleaning, use a clean, dry cotton ball or gauze pad to gently absorb any remaining moisture from the ear canal.

B. Allow Dog to Shake Head to Remove Excess Debris

• Once the ear canal is dry, allow your dog to shake their head to remove any excess debris or solution.
• Avoid wiping or cleaning the inside of the ear canal after shaking, as this can push debris or moisture further down the canal.

V. Follow-up

A. Check Ears Regularly for Any Signs of Infection

• Check your dog’s ears regularly for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or odor.

B. Clean Ears as Needed (Typically Every 1-2 Weeks)

• Most dogs require ear cleaning every 1-2 weeks, but the frequency may vary depending on the breed, environment, and individual dog’s needs.

C. Consult a Veterinarian if Any Concerns Arise

• If you notice any signs of infection or irritation, or if your dog’s ears are excessively dirty or inflamed, consult a veterinarian promptly.
• Veterinarians can provide professional cleaning and treatment for ear infections or other ear problems.

By following these simple steps, you can help keep your dog’s ears clean, healthy, and free of infections.