How to clean your dog's ears
There's no need to clean your dog's ears just for the sake of it. If your dog has healthy ears that don't itch, there's no need for cleaning. However, some dogs might need regular ear cleaning due to ongoing issues. Try to find a balance where you clean them "as infrequently as possible" without causing your dog any distress. If your dog suffers from recurring ear infections, it's essential to have this investigated by a vet. If you're unsure about whether your dog's ears need cleaning, we recommend consulting your vet.
If your dog has minor ear issues – for example, if you notice them scratching occasionally for short periods and they arenotshowing signs of soreness, don't have a foul or unpleasant smell from their ears, and you can't see excessive discharge, redness, or swelling down towards the ear canal – you can use over-the-counter ear cleaners for dogs available from pharmacies. Different types are available for various purposes, and while some are available without prescription, they should only be used after consulting a vet. Always read the packaging!
However, if your dog exhibits the symptoms mentioned above, such as intense itching, frequent head shaking, or seems generally unwell, please see a vet instead of attempting to clean their ears yourself.
How to clean your dog's ears:
Gently hold your dog's ear flap. For dogs with floppy ears, you might need to fold the ear flap back to get a clear view of the ear canal.
When held normally, the ear canal runs vertically downwards. Apply a small amount of ear cleaner into the ear canal, following the instructions on the product packaging.
Gently massage the outside of the ear canal. You should feel a firm structure running down from the ear. If done correctly, you might hear a squishing sound as you massage.
Wipe away any excess liquid with a cotton pad, for instance. Never insert cotton buds or anything similar into the ear canal!
It's perfectly normal for your dog to shake their head afterwards.
If your dog continues to show discomfort or irritation in their ears, please contact a vet.
