Overview
Ear infections with bacteria or yeast are a commonly treated medical problem in dogs caused by underlying conditions such as allergies, ear mites, or certain breeds’ ear conformation. Several factors are involved in treating ear infections, and ear cleaning is one important aspect that needs to be performed before certain topical medications are applied.
Ear cleanings are also often recommended, and an important part of maintenance routine for all dogs, especially those prone to ear infections.
Why is cleaning my dog’s ears important if they have an infection?
Ear cleaning helps decrease debris, bacteria and yeast inside the ear. When a dog has an ear infection, excessive, abnormal debris is often present, making it difficult for the topical medications to reach the infection. Bacteria and yeast can easily hide inside layers of debris inside the ear canal and, if left behind after the treatment course has been completed, lead to reinfection of the ear. Certain types of ear discharge, such as purulent (pus) discharge, can even inactivate certain medications, preventing them from working.
If debris is packed deep into the ear canal, it can prevent the medication from reaching the deeper parts of the ear closer to the eardrum. This can also make it difficult or impossible for your veterinarian to evaluate the integrity of your dog’s ear drum.
Did you know?
A dog’s ear canal is shaped like an “L,” with the eardrum situated at the bottom right of that angle. For this reason, gently cleaning the ears at home has a very low risk of causing injury to your dog’s eardrum because half the ear canal cannot be easily accessed beyond that 90-degree angle.
It is important, however, to avoid inserting the bottle of cleaning solution directly into the ear and squeezing the fluid in forcefully, as this could create a “seal” of forceful pressure, potentially rupturing the ear drum.
How do I clean my dog’s ears at home?
The ears are very sensitive, so make the experience more comfortable for your dog by being as gentle as possible and rewarding them with plenty of positive reinforcement, like their favorite treats, before, during and/or after cleaning process. You may opt to perform ear cleanings outside, weather permitting, or have a towel ready to avoid any mess from the ear cleaning solution
Refer to the following steps for how to clean your dog’s ears:
- First, try saturating cotton pads or balls with the ear cleaning solution and wipe the inside of the ear, everywhere you can reach with your fingers and the cotton drenched with solution.
- Start from the inside of the ear, only as far as your finger can easily fit, which is about one knuckle in, and work your way to the outside ear flap. Avoid using cotton swabs to prevent pushing debris deeper into the ear canal This will also help to get your dog used to liquid feel inside his ear, and will help him get used to you working with his ears
- Once the entire inner ear has been wiped, and remember, do not go over and over the inner ear with the same cotton. One pass with each new cotton round or cotton ball then throw away and use a new one for another pass.
- Then, you will tip the cleansing solution bottle gently, and allow a small amount of solution to Fill the ear canal. Use just a bit the first time, as your dog becomes accustomed to the process you can use more and more fluid..However, Stop immediately, If your dog does not tolerate the ear solution being poured directly into the ear,
- Once the Solution is inside the ear, your dogs first response will be to shake his head, however, this will help loosen any debris or dirt.
- Then, gently massage the base of the ear. Have a towel ready, as once you stop massaging the ear, your dog will likely want to shake their head again, which again will continue to help loosen the debris.
- Use cotton pads or cotton balls once again, to gently wipe away debris from inside the ear.
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If your dog seems to be in pain during an ear cleaning, stop immediately, and consult with your veterinarian. Often, at-home ear cleanings for treating severe infections may be delayed for the first few days until the medication helps improve the pain and inflammation.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
The frequency of cleaning your dog’s ears will depend on whether it is for treatment of an infection, which could be up to daily to start, or maintenance, which could be every 1-2 weeks.
Dogs with a history of allergies, recurrent ear infections, or floppy ears may need their ears cleaned more frequently. For a dog with healthy, normal ears, a routine ear clean is needed if dirt or debris is noted, as overcleaning the ears can also lead to irritation of the ears. A routine ear cleaning is recommended if the ears get wet, such as after swimming or bathing.
How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?
Regularly check your dog’s ears for signs of infection, which may include:
- Redness
- Itching one or both ears
- Headshaking
- Discharge or increased wax in the ear
- Odor
- Discomfort when touching the ear.
If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, contact your veterinarian. Some of these signs are also present in dogs with allergic ear disease, even when ear infections are absent.
Our Suggestions for Dog Ear Cleaning Solutions
- Best Overall – Vetoquinol Ear Cleaning Solution
- Best Budget – OtiRinse ear cleansing and drying solution
- Best Natural – Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash
- Best for Yeast – Epiotic Advanced
- Best Wipes – Oticbliss Advanced Cleaning Ear Wipes
Who Should Buy a Dog Ear Cleaning Solution
- Owners of certain breeds – Some dog breeds, especially those with floppy ears, are at greater risk for ear issues than other breeds. These dogs often need their ears cleaned to help prevent infection. According to the AVMA, the breeds most likely to suffer from ear infections are the Basset Hound, Chinese Shar-Pei, Labradoodle, Beagle, and Golden Retriever. More generally, Poodles and Spaniel-type breeds can also be at high risk for ear infections.
- Owners of dogs that have recurring ear infections – If your dog experiences chronic ear infections, regular cleaning may be a way to help prevent infections in the future. However, be sure to talk to your vet before trying to prevent or treat a medical issue on your own.
- Dog owners whose vet has recommended it – Of course, if the Veterinarian has recommended that you use a dog ear cleaning solution for your pup, you should listen.
- While ear-cleaning solutions aren’t necessary for all dogs, listen to your vet’s advice. It is just good practice to keep every dog’s ears clean, dry and free of debris.
Who Should Not Buy a Dog Ear Cleaning Solution
- Owners of dogs with severe ear problems – If there is any chance that your dog could have a ruptured eardrum, do not buy an ear cleaning solution without first talking to our veterinarian. Some cleaners and medications can cause deafness if they can get through the eardrum to the delicate structures deeper in a dog’s ear.
- Owners who have their dog’s ears cleaned professionally – If you have your vet or groomer clean your dog’s ears regularly, you probably don’t need to worry about cleaning them at home, unless you’ve been told otherwise.
