Ear Wax Build Up in Dogs

A build up of ear wax is common in dogs. Dogs with long ears that are dragged through moist grasses, or rarely exposed to open air circulation, are especially prone to a build up of ear wax. Basset hounds, weimarianers and other droopy-eared dogs should be monitored carefully for excessive ear wax.

Identification

Ear wax build up in dogs will appear as a soft, dark brown-black residue in the ear. There is often an unpleasant odor associated with ear wax. The wax may be seen easily on the inside of the ear simply by looking inside the dogs ear. Use a flashlight to see beyond the curves of the inside of the ear for additional wax build up.

Symptoms

Dogs with a build up of ear wax will often rub their heads on the floor, or the side of furniture, to try to beak the wax loose. They may also shake their heads quickly, or paw at their ears.

Effects

A build up of ear wax may be a sign of an ear infection or dog ear mites. Both ailments require veterinary attention and can cause major discomfort for the dog.

Prevention/Solution

Keep your dogs ears clean. Do a visual check weekly, and clean as needed. Use dog ear cleaning liquids available from a pet store and a tissue or cotton balls to wipe out the ear wax.

Warning

Never insert a cotton swab in a dog's ear. You may accidentally rupture his eardrum if he makes a sudden movement.