How to Clean a Basset Hound's Ears

A basset hound's long, velvety ears are its most endearing feature. Unfortunately, this breed's ears are especially susceptible to problems because they trap dirt in a moist environment and don't allow much air circulation. The basset's tendency to drag its ears on the ground also enables cruddy material to accumulate. It's important to take preventative measures to keep your hound free of infection and itchiness. Weekly cleanings lessen the amount of wax and build-up inside those adorable ears.

Things You'll Need

• Canine ear wash
• Cotton balls
• Washcloth

Instructions

1. Purchase a high quality ear wash solution from your vet or a pet store. Do not plan to use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol inside of the basset's ears. This can cause irritation and burning.

2. Start by cleaning the outer parts of your hound's ears. Pour some cleaning solution onto a cotton ball or damp washcloth and rub softly to remove any dirt or crusty matter. Don't forget to clean the areas inside the ears' folds and wrinkles! Once the outer ear cleaning is complete, dry off any excess moisture with a cloth.

3. Lift your basset's ear away from its head so you can have easy access to the inner ear. According to the amount that the label directs, pour cleaning solution into the ear canal. Gently squeeze the ear to make sure the solution gets distributed inside, then massage the base of the ear for 20 to 30 seconds. This will loosen wax and dirt.

4. Use dry cotton balls to wipe away the loosened debris from the inner ear. Clean the outer part only--sticking a cotton ball or Q-tip too far inside the ear canal can cause it to get stuck and possibly injure the ear drum. Sufficiently dry the area before moving on to the next ear. Leaving the basset's ears too damp may increase his chances of getting an infection.

5. Pay attention to how your basset hound treats its ears on a day-to-day basis. If she frequently itches her ears, pulls away if you try to touch them, shakes her head, or tilts it to one side, she most likely has a problem that needs to be diagnosed and treated by a vet. While regular ear cleanings are great for your hound's health, they cannot cure common issues like infections and mites.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your vet to show you how to clean your basset's ears so you can feel confident about doing it at home.

• Ask another person to help hold the basset while you perform the cleaning.

• NEVER stick a Q-tip or cotton ball deep into a basset's ear canal.