When your dog shakes his head, is that a sign his ears need cleaning or maybe there’s a bigger problem? Cleaning your dog’s ears at home can be a simple process with the right tools. But knowing how to clean your dog’s ears at home, how often to clean your dog’s ears, and when to call your vet are factors to consider.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
Like all things health related when it comes to our pets, talking with your veterinarian is an important first step in understanding your dog’s specific needs. However, signs to know that a dog’s ears need cleaning are:
- visible discharge
- odor
- visible dirt or wax
You should check your dog’s ears weekly to see if they need cleaning by you or your veterinarian or are showing any signs of infection.
Be aware that over-cleaning can further irritate your dog’s ears, but in general, dogs that are prone to ear infections or breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, may need cleaning. more frequently to prevent debris from accumulating. while other breeds do not need regular ear cleaning.
“There are some breeds of dog with excessive ear canal hair that can prevent products from reaching the deeper parts of the dog,” says Dr. ear canals, such as Poodles and Oodles”. “In those cases, a veterinary visit may be for a proper ear cleaning.”
What to use to clean dog ears?
If you’re prepared to clean your ears at home, make sure you have the right tools.
Aschehoug says, “Never use home remedies or over-the-counter remedies unless directly recommended by your veterinarian. Also avoid household products like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or household soap.
Also, never use a Q-tip as it can puncture the dog’s ear canal, injure the ear canal, or push debris into the dog’s ear.
What you will use to clean your dog’s ears depends on the type of dog you have (straight ears, soft ears, long ears) and the type of cleaning he needs. For most dogs, you only need to trim the ear hair if it covers the ear area, and use a cotton swab or dog ear swab to gently open the outer ear, not going into the ear canal so as not to damage the drum. ears. There are products that are easy to buy over-the-counter online or in pet stores that your veterinarian can recommend. Here are a few:
$13.99. MD ear wipes for pets
$11.99. Earthbath Ear Wipes
$19.95. Jax & Cali . Earbuds
If your dog’s ears need a more thorough cleaning because of earwax buildup, itching, irritation, odors, or bacteria, discuss with your veterinarian whether you need to bring your dog in. not because it is due to an infection or if you can clean your ears at home with a dog ear care solution. There are great dog ear cleaning solutions available from your vet or online or at a pet store that your vet can recommend, like Vetericyn Plus antibacterial ear wash.
If using an at-home dog ear care solution, do it at a time when the dog is calm and you have time to work the effects slowly. This process can be messy so do it in the bathroom or outside. Perform the following steps.
Step 1: Once your dog has settled down, gently pick up the earlobe. You’ll need access to the ear, so trim the excess hair around the ear and gently wipe it away, making sure it doesn’t get into the ear.
Step 2: Instill the dog ear care solution in the ears according to the directions on the package or your veterinarian’s instructions. Massage the ear canal to break up earwax and debris, applying gentle pressure for about 30 seconds in a circular motion.
Step 3: Remove the ears and let the dog shake its head to remove any remaining liquid and dirt.
Step 4: Wipe off any remaining liquid or debris.
Step 5: Offer the treat to be a good dog, then repeat in the second ear.
If you clean your dog’s ears and things seem to be getting worse, stop and call the vet.
When should you not clean your dog’s ears?
Never clean a dog’s ears when the following signs of infection are present:
- Redness or swelling in the ear canal
- Has a bad smell
- Discharge that is dark brown, greenish yellow or bloody
- Visible pain or discomfort when you touch your ear
- Scratches or cuts near the ear, especially if it is inflamed
If your dog starts shaking his head repeatedly with no signs of infection, contact your veterinarian immediately as they may have a ferret tail or other foreign body in the ear canal, which can cause worsen or lead to ear drum tearing when cleaning the house.
Keeping your dog’s ears clean and free of build-up can help keep them healthy and happy, and allows you to monitor any changes that might cause concern.
