Dogs' ears must be cared for regularly using a suitable dog ear cleaner product.
© fetrinka - Shutterstock
What is the best dog ear cleaner in the UK?
Whether your dog has upright or floppy ears, it's important to clean the inside of their ears, including the ear canal, regularly. Otherwise, dust and earwax may lead to infections.
Dogs' ears are delicate and must be cared for regularly otherwise your pet can develop several unpleasant conditions including earwax plugs, inflammation or allergies. That's why there are dog ear cleaner products designed specifically for this sensitive area.
It is recommended that you take care of your pet's ears every two weeks. Be gentle so that you do not bother your dog too much. The process is not exactly enjoyable for them, but it's important for their health! Gently massage the base of the ears with wipes or compresses. Keep in mind that the breeds with floppy ears are more sensitive than others because air circulates less inside their ear canals.
Are you getting your first Labrador? Make sure to stock up on suitable ear care items. If you are finding it difficult to choose the best product, have a look at the comparison we've created to help you!
Summary
How do I clean my dog's ears?
To thoroughly clean your dog's ears, use an appropriate lotion or an ear cleaner designed specifically for dogs. If you use a solution that is not intended for cleaning ears, you risk hurting your pet because of a harsh pH level.
Take a wipe or a compress. Then, gently massage the base of the ear with a few drops of lotion to ensure that the lotion gets in the ear canal. This motion will also help in removing impurities. You can also let your pet shake their head to loosen even more earwax bits. Afterwards, put a piece of gauze into the ear to collect as much dirt and wax as possible.
Remove the cloth and gently rub the dog's ear with a wipe. The extra fluid, combined with the disintegrated earwax, will then come out and be absorbed by the wipe.
Replace the wipe and repeat the process on the other side.
How often should I clean my dog's ears?
Cleaning your dog's ears every fortnight is generally suggested. Their ear canal, like the human ear, is continually producing earwax and can get blocked if not routinely cleaned.
Does your dog have sensitive ears and suffers from regular infections or excess wax? In this case, clean their ears once or twice a week to remove any germs that might lead to inflammation.
When should I give my dog a thorough ear cleaning?
It is important to deep clean the ear when your dog has an ear infection. Follow your vet's advice to treat your pet as effectively as possible. Be aware that your pooches's ears may be sore, so it's important to be very gentle so as not to hurt them.
If your dog has ear mites, you should treat them with special medication, while cleaning their ear canals thoroughly. Then apply an anti-parasite product.
What should I use to clean my dog's ears?
Cotton swabs are not suitable for the dog's ear canal, as it is shaped like an elbow, which means you won't be able to reach the bottom of it with a Q-tip. Instead, use a lint-free cloth or wipes.
Tweezers are also helpful if there is a splinter in your pet's ears, for example. Has your dog caught a tick? To remove it, use a pair of tick tweezers and make sure that the head does not stay in the dog's skin.
To remove extra hair from the ear opening, use a brush or tiny scissors.
Do some breeds of dogs need their ears cleaned more regularly?
In breeds with floppy ears, such as a Cocker Spaniel, the ear is less effectively ventilated, and secretions can grow bacteria. Cleaning the ear canal at least once a week is advisable for these animals.
Hunting dogs, with their long ears, require frequent grooming as well.
It should be mentioned that some breeds are especially prone to ear infections and get them frequently. This is especially true in brachycephalic breeds, such as Boxers and French Bulldogs. Labradors, on the other hand, produce a lot of earwax and must be cleaned at least once a week. The ear canals of Poodles and Bichons must also be cleaned daily. There is less ventilation because of their lengthy ear hairs, which restrict the ear canal opening, and infections develop more often.
What should you look out for when cleaning your dog's ear?
Never use water or any product that is not intended for cleaning a dog's ear. You risk hurting your pet or causing irritation.
You should also pay attention to the colour of the earwax. Earwax from a healthy dog is brown. If you notice yellow earwax, it is almost always an indication of infection, and you should contact your veterinarian.
Also, make sure there is no unpleasant smell coming from your pet's ear. Make an appointment with a professional right away if your dog keeps their head tilted or tries to scratch their ear repeatedly.
