How to Clean Dogs Ears

Fip over those floppy ears, and examine the inside of your dog's ears weekly.

At least once a week, take a moment to peek inside your dog's ears. Regular ear cleanings help reduce the chance of infection, control odor and keep your pet comfortable. If the ears are swollen, have a rash or are filled with puss, the dog might already have an infection and will need immediate veterinary care. If specks of brown ear wax are visible and the ear tissue is not discolored, proceed with the ear cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Dog bone
• Flashlight
• Cotton balls
• Tissues
• Ear cleaning liquid

Instructions

1. Make your dog comfortable. Be sure he is sitting on a stable surface such as the couch or his dog bed. Do not chase the dog around while trying to clean his ears. Offer him a bone to chew on while the ears are cleaned.

2. Gently lift the ear so you can see inside. Use a flashlight for a better view if the ear has a lot of hair or wrinkles. Examine the ear for any signs of infection such as swelling, puss or open sores. Call the veterinarian to schedule an appointment if there are any signs of infection, blood or open sores.

3. Soak a cotton ball with ear cleaning liquid. Use a solution that contains tea tree oil or other soothing ingredients. Start by wiping the outer most part of the ear with the damp cotton ball. Let the dog get used to the sensation before going further inside the ear. Use fresh dampened cotton balls as necessary. Work further into the ear and only wipe the areas you can see. Never push the cotton in the ear canal.

4. Read the directions on the ear cleaning liquid. If appropriate, squeeze the recommended number of drops into the dog's ear canal. Gently rub at the base of the ear to allow the liquid to penetrate deep into the ear. Allow the cleaner to rest for a minute, then allow the dog to shake his head or use a dry cotton ball to wipe the moisture out of the ear.

5. Use a tissue to absorb excess cleaner in and around the ear. Praise the dog for being patient and give his ears extra rubbing since they might be itchy from the gentle touching.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use a cotton swab in a dog's ear. If the dog shakes during the ear cleaning, the swab can move too far into he ear and cause damage. Always dry a dog's ears after they have been in water. This includes after bath time, outdoor activities in the rain, swimming in lakes or even playing in a yard sprinkler. Build-up of moisture in a dog's ear can cause painful and itchy infections.

• If small moving white specs are visible in the ear, the dog might have ear mites. Consult a veterinarian for medication to remove the parasites.

References

• Dog Ear Cleaning Basics