Floppy or pointy, enormous or tiny, dog ears come in all shapes and sizes—and it’s important to keep them healthy. Dog ear cleaners are one way to keep tabs on ears, but there are a few things you should know about cleaning and caring for such a delicate part of your dog’s body.
For some dogs, regular ear cleanings can be beneficial in preventing ear issues. However, not all cleaners are created equal, and special care must be taken when engaging this sensitive area. First, you should consult your vet before deciding to clean your dog’s ears. Then, if you’re uncomfortable cleaning your pup’s ears, that’s OK, your veterinarian can also help with that.
To get more information about dog ears and cleaners, we consulted with Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, veterinary medical advisor for Rover and chief veterinarian at Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital. She dives into why you may or may not want to use dog ear cleaners, and we offer a few suggestions for safe cleaners. Read on!
What Causes Dog Ear Infections?
“A surprisingly large percentage of my caseload is seeing dogs with ear infections,” says Greenstein. Otitis externa, or an external ear canal infection, is quite common and can have several causes.
According to Greenstein, yeasts live on skin surfaces and can thrive in warm, moist environments—like ears! Some dogs are predisposed to ear infections, particularly dogs with certain ear designs. Really floppy or hairy ears, for example, don’t get as much air circulation. One example of a breed that often faces ear problems is the Cocker Spaniel.
But dog breed isn’t the only factor. “Many ear infections are a symptom of a larger problem like allergies,” says Greenstein, like food or environmental allergies; or it could be a sign of an allergic skin disease.
Some less common causes also include polyps, foreign material in the ears, or parasites, such as ear mites.
In warm weather environments and seasons, it’s important to remember that swimming can often lead to ear infections in dogs. Be sure to thoroughly dry off fur and ears after a session in the lake or pool. Ears getting a little stinky? It may be a sign that your dog needs to spend some time on dry land for a while.
How to Spot a Dog Ear Infection
Greenstein notes that early signs of an ear infection can include scratching, rubbing ears along the floor, redness, a strong odor coming from the ear, and/or abnormal discharge. It’s important to take your dog to the vet if they exhibit these behaviors, as untreated infections can spread to the middle and inner ear and have serious consequences.
If your dog is systemically ill or has a consistent head cold, these can be signs of a deeper ear infection and you should see your vet right away.
Dog Ear Cleaners: Tips and Warnings
Effective ear cleaners contain a cerumenolytic (ear wax softener) to help break down wax build-up, but it’s best to consult a vet on the right one for your dog. Greenstein advises steering clear of harsh ingredients, such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can damage ear tissue that is already inflamed and irritated.
Greenstein also warns against using homemade dog ear cleaners unless you consult with your vet first. Another big no-no in ear cleaning? Never use a cotton swab or go deep into the ear as it can cause damage. A gentle touch is key.
If you’ve consulted your vet and are cleaning your dog’s ears for the first time, Greenstein has a few suggestions:
- Ear wipes are a good place to start for basic outer ear maintenance. Go gently and start small until you build up more comfort; refrain from going deep into the ear.
- If your dog requires liquid ear cleaner, head to the bathroom or outdoors to apply it as your dog will shake their head after, sending drops flying!
- Never insert the nozzle of a liquid ear cleaner into your dog’s ear when administering. Gently fill the ear canal from above.
- Be sure to massage the base of your dog’s ears for 30 seconds after administering liquid ear cleaner.
Remember that less is more when it comes to ear cleaning, and, as Greenstein says, the goal is not to clear out every nook and cranny, but to keep tabs on wax build-up and gently maintain clean, healthy ears if your dog is prone to ear problems.
Over-the-Counter Dog Ear Cleaners
Below are a few suggestions to get you started on ear cleaning for maintenance. Be sure to check with your veterinarian if these products are right for your dog and always consult your vet if you think your dog may be experiencing an ear infection.
Earthbath Ear Wipes
Safe for cats and dogs over six weeks of age, these ear wipes are good for gentle cleaning maintenance to remove dirt and wax buildup. Natural ingredients, such as aloe, witch hazel, and cucumber extract, help eliminate odor, and they’re free of synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Shop on ChewyTropiClean Alcohol-Free Ear Wash for Pets
This Tropiclean ear cleaner formula is soap- and alcohol-free and made in the U.S. for dogs and cats 12 weeks old and over. 97.4% of the ingredients are naturally derived, and include extracts from oat kernel and grapes. It’s free of dyes and parabens.
Find on AmazonPet MD Advanced Dog and Cat Ear Cleaner Wipes
Another alcohol-free wipe option, this gentle dog ear cleaner is designed to swipe up yeast, bacteria, dirt, and wax, to help prevent infections. Made in the U.S., they also have a refreshing cucumber and melon scent.
Shop on ChewyDr. Gold’s Ear Therapy for Dogs and Cats
Made in the U.S., this alcohol-free liquid ear cleaner for dogs and cats treats fungal and yeast infections. Bonus? It also works to deodorize the ear canal to help combat stinky ears.
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