Hygiene and health go hand in hand, and much like clipping the nails and brushing the teeth, dog ear cleaning is also important. Dogs, like humans, can experience various ear-related issues, including bacterial or fungal infections; hence checking their ears is essential.
However, ear cleaning at home may seem daunting to some dog owners, but with the right technique and patience, the process can be an easy and stress-free experience for you and your pet.
This article covers all the essential information to aid you in dog ear cleaning. All that and more as you keep reading!
Signs That Your Dog’s Ears Need Cleaning
Caring for your dog’s ears is essential to maintaining their overall health. Regular ear cleaning helps prevent ear infections, wax buildup, and other issues.
Here are some signs that your dog’s ears may need cleaning:
- Odor: If you notice a foul or yeasty smell coming from your dog’s ears, it strongly indicates that they need cleaning. A healthy dog’s ear should have little to no odor.
- Discharge: Excessive dark or yellowish discharge in your dog’s ears can indicate an infection or debris buildup.
- Scratching and Head Shaking: If your dog frequently scratches their ears or shakes their head, it might be a sign of discomfort caused by dirty ears.
- Redness and Swelling: Inflamed or swollen ears often indicate an underlying problem, such as an infection or allergies. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent these issues, but it’s essential to consult your veterinarian if the signs persist.
- Difficulty Hearing: A buildup of debris or wax in your dog’s ears can impair their hearing. If your dog is not responding to sounds or commands as usual, it might be time to check their ears and clean them if necessary.
By recognizing these signs, you can ensure you adequately address your dog’s ear health.
Remember that certain breeds, such as those with floppy ears, like Beagles and Bloodhounds, are more prone to ear issues and may require more frequent cleaning.
Warning When Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
Cleaning your dog’s ears is crucial to maintaining their overall health. However, it’s equally vital to do so carefully and correctly to avoid causing damage or discomfort to your pet.
Here are some things to remember when cleaning your dog’s ears.
Always be gentle
Avoid using cotton swabs or other tools that can potentially hurt or irritate the delicate tissues of your dog’s ear canal. Remember that every dog is different, so pay attention to their reactions and stop if they appear to be in pain.
Don’t over-clean
While keeping your dog’s ears clean is important, over-cleaning may lead to irritation and infection. Some dogs with clean and healthy ears may not need regular ear cleaning, while others require more frequent attention.
Generally, though, ear cleaning is required once every month.
Use the right cleaning solution
Opt for a pet-safe ear-cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian. Avoid using home remedies or human cleaning solutions, as these can cause irritation or harm your dog’s ear canal.
Most importantly, you should avoid using peroxide on your dog’s ears. This formula can cause inflammation of your pet’s ear canal and lead to ear infections.
Watch for signs of infection
If you notice a foul smell, excessive head shaking or scratching, or redness and inflammation in your dog’s ears, it’s crucial to seek professional help from a veterinarian.
These could be indicators of a bacterial or fungal ear infection. Cleaning the ears when an infection is present can cause more harm than good, and your vet can advise on the appropriate course of treatment.
Steps on How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears
Cleaning your dog’s ears is a vital part of their grooming routine. It helps to prevent infections, keeps your pet comfortable, and maintains overall ear health.
Follow these simple steps, as recommended by veterinarians, to clean your dog’s ears effectively and safely.
Steps 1: Gather the necessary supplies
You will need a dog ear-cleaning solution, cotton balls or gauze, and a dry towel to clean your dog’s ears.
Steps 2: Calm your dog and prepare for ear cleaning
Ensure your dog is calm and comfortable before you begin the cleaning process. Gently hold your dog’s head to help keep them still during the process.
Steps 3: Straighten the ear canal and apply an ear-cleaning solution
Hold the ear flap (pinna) vertically to expose and straighten the ear canal. While holding the ear flap with one hand, squeeze enough ear-cleaning solution into the ear canal to fill it.
Steps 4: Massage the ear canal
Gently massage the base of your puppy’s ear for 20-30 seconds. This will help to break up any debris or wax in the ear canal.
Steps 5: Allow your dog to shake their head
After massaging, allow your dog to shake their head to remove the ear-cleaning solution and loosened debris.
Steps 6: Wipe away debris with cotton balls or gauze
Using a cotton ball or gauze, gently wipe away any debris from the outer part of the ear canal. Be cautious not to insert the cotton ball or gauze too deep into the ear canal, as it may cause damage.
Steps 7: Dry the ear
Gently pat the ear dry using a clean towel. Make sure to dry the outer part of the ear as well as any accessible areas inside the ear. You can give your dog treats afterward for positive reinforcement.
Also, regularly examining your dog’s ears for signs of dirt, wax buildup, or irritation will help you determine when it’s time for cleaning.
Read Also: 5 Best Dog Ear Cleaners
When to Seek a Professional Dog Ear Cleaner?
If you’re not confident in properly cleaning your dog’s ears or your dog is particularly sensitive, nervous, or uncooperative during the process, it may be time to seek a professional ear cleaner.
In Singapore, Likeable Pets is one of the most trusted concerning pet hygiene. Our professional groomers are experienced and trained to handle your pet carefully while efficiently cleaning their ears.
They also possess the tools and experience to thoroughly clean and spot potential issues, making routine professional cleanings a beneficial part of your dog’s overall health care routine.
Message us via WhatsApp for more details.
Why Likeable Pets?
The grooming experts at Likeable Pets have earned the trust and endorsement of numerous pet owners who have witnessed the exceptional care their furry friends receive.
Don’t just take our word for it; check out the glowing reviews from satisfied pet parents on our Facebook Page and see how our service has surpassed their expectations.
If you’re still curious about the quality of our services, browse through our photo gallery, showcasing the stunning transformations many pets have undergone.
These before-and-after images testify to the dedication, skill, and love our groomers put into every pet that Likeable Pets welcome.
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Cavapoos, with their endless vigor, may love to play in the water. Since their ears aren’t upright, owners should regularly monitor their puppy’s ear health. If you’re not confident in doing the dog ear cleaning process, our professional groomers will happily take on the task and keep your dog happy and healthy.
With its long hairs, this Maltese mix requires a good shave around and inside the ears so dirt and bacteria won’t easily accumulate in the area. Our trained groomers know how to properly do that to avoid accidental cuts and ear injuries.
Final Word
Knowing how to properly clean your dog’s ear can prevent excessive wax buildup and infections. If you’re unsure whether you’d do a good job, we’re a phone call away! Contact us via WhatsApp 86852360 today to book a schedule!