Even though a dog’s ears require regular monitoring through his entire life, a little basic care is all that is needed to have them healthy and clean. A dog’s ears are very important. They allow your dog to listen to your commands and come over when you call out for them.

Ear cleaning may seem like its a messy task. However, the need for this dog grooming task is not overstated. Regular ear cleaning is an essential part of a dog’s preventive care.

Canine Ear Anatomy

The ears of a dog are moist and warm. This makes them possible breeding grounds for things like bacteria, yeast, and parasites. The ear canal of the canine is not linear and short like a human’s. Instead, it forms a long, clear “L” shape. The curvature of the ear canal makes it hard to clean. This is because the debris that goes in, is hard to get it back out.

At the same time, it provides a good environment for yeast and bacteria. Regular cleaning of the dog’s ears. That can be either once each week or every time you are bathing him. It will help keep the ears healthy.

Why Clean a Dog’s Ears

Prevent Infection

One very important reason why you need to clean your pup’s ears is to prevent ear infections. This can be rather painful and may cause deafness when left untreated. Regular ear cleaning will help prevent yeast accumulation (the main cause of dog ear infections).

Most ear cleaners comprise of witch hazel, which is a drying component. Avoid cleaning your pup’s ears when he shows signs of having an ear infection. Keep in mind too that cleaning your dog’s ears during an infection is not recommended. This is because it might further inflame their delicate ear canal and even the eardrum.

It is advisable to seek veterinary care when you know that your dog has got an ear infection.

Prevent Deafness

A dog might undergo temporary partial to complete deafness. This may be caused by wax buildup in the ear canals. Regular ear cleaning can prevent accumulation of excess earwax. This is very crucial for dog breeds that have narrow ear canals. This includes a breed like the poodles.

The groomer will more likely give you prescription ear cleaner. You will also get particular ear cleaning instructions. That is when the diagnosis is temporary deafness caused by earwax buildup. Even then, you might prevent such a stressful situation to start with. When your dog’s ears are regularly cleaned.

Infection, Parasites, and Debris

There are many things that can find their way into your dog’s ears. These might cause problems, which include ear mites, bacteria, grass bits and a tiny seed. Your pup may collect all these as he romps around the yard. Your pup will not hesitate to show you that the ears are troubling him. You will notice your dog scratching, whimpering, and shaking their head. All this a dog does in attempts to relieve the discomfort.

A Floppy Problem

Even though all breeds of dogs are prone to ear infections. Dogs that have heavy flappers will be more likely to get infections. This is when compared to the shorter-eared counterparts. Many infections require moisture to thrive. Floppy ears on a few breeds will prevent the proper air circulation. Thus having no circulation will mean that evaporation does not happen. This means that the moisture trapped in their ears offers the breeding grounds for bacteria and yeast growth.

Danger Signs

Ensure you contact a veterinarian in Singapore. Especially when you notice one of the following symptoms. These may be affecting your pup’s ears:

  • Foul smells
  • Ear discharge
  • Hair loss
  • Redness
  • Crusty skin
  • Swelling

Also keep in mind that black or brown ear wax- and also dark, dry wax that resemble coffee grounds. These are the classic signs of the microscopic ear mites. However, only the vet will tell this for sure. Therefore, please do not delay taking your pooch for a checkup.

Routine Ear Care

Your pooch’ regular maintenance and grooming routine need to add frequent ear checks. It is more so important for pups who have lots of inner-ear hair. This should be done for dogs who have excessive earwax.

When the dog’s inner ears seem dirty. Use a cotton ball that has been dampened with mineral oil to clean them. You alternatively may use solutions specially formulated for ear cleaning or hydrogen peroxide too. Allow your vet or groomer to show you the right method to clean your dog’s ears. This is because the inner-ear skin is rather delicate.

Avoid cleaning your dog’s ears too often or deeply. This is because it can cause irritation. Also, remember to NOT put anything into a dog’s ear canal.

When your dogs grow hair from their ear canal. You or the groomer will need to tweeze it out. This can be done every few weeks thus preventing problematic tangles and mats from forming. Ensure you discuss with the groomer if this is essential for your dog.

Wet Behind the Ears?

When not careful, regular swimming and bathing can cause infection and irritation. To help prevent this, before baths place cotton in the dog’s ears. Also, ensure to dry the ears safely and thoroughly after any water activities and sports.

When your pooch is prone to getting ear infections, consider pouring a small amount of the ear drying solution. This is made for dogs for their ear canals. It assists in evaporating any trapped water inside the ear.

Professional Help

If you are not comfortable with poking in your dog’s ears. You could visit a vet or engage groomer at Likeable Pets for lessons in ear cleaning. You will also show how it is done properly without causing pain to your dog. The vet should then examine your dog when you notice something unusual about the ears. This could be things like odours, discharge, unusual redness or even swelling. Such symptoms can indicate an infection that needs some medication to clear it up.

Our dogs are our best friends and you don’t risk your best friend’s health. It just takes good habits to clean your pet’s ears regularly and it doesn’t hurt to professionally groom your pet at least once a month.