A Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears at Home
Regular ear cleaning is a crucial part of your dog’s hygiene routine, especially if your dog is a Cavapoo with floppy ears or has allergies. Some dogs may require ear cleanings less frequently, while others may need them more often. For example, dogs with hairy ears like my Harry or who are prone to ear infections or those who spend a lot of time in the water may need more frequent ear cleanings. It’s recommended to keep the ear canals dry and well-ventilated, especially for dogs who swim frequently.
When to clean your Cavapoo’s ears
If you live in a warm climate and your Cavapoo has hairy ears you should aim to clean them weekly. You should also clean your dog’s ears if you notice a mild odor or if your dog is shaking or pawing their head more than usual. This could indicate a buildup of wax or debris in the ear canal. However, if your dog’s ear looks red and inflamed, smells yeasty, or if they look to be in pain, it’s best to contact your vet. These symptoms could be a sign of an ear infection, fleas, ear mites, or allergies and may require qualified medical attention.
Remember that cleaning an infected ear can often make things worse because it can easily push debris, wax, and bacteria deeper into the ear canal, causing further irritation and inflammation. Additionally, the cleaning solution itself may exacerbate the infection or cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your dog. In some cases, cleaning an infected ear can even lead to a ruptured eardrum! So, if you suspect that your dog has an ear infection or any other ear-related issue, it’s best to seek professional help from your vet.
Let’s get started!
Before you begin, you need to know if your dog’s ears need cleaning. Healthy, clean ears are pink, odorless, and not dirty or inflamed. If your dog’s ears have a mild odor or appear red and inflamed, it is probably time for a good cleaning. However, if you notice any scabs, scratches, or wounds, it’s best to avoid doing more harm than good as might cause your pup a lot of pain.
Tools and materials needed:
- Commercial dog ear cleaner or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and rubbing alcohol
- Cotton balls or gauze pads – two per ear for a regular clean. You may need more if they are really grotty or this is the first time you’ve cleaned them yourself.
- Treats (lots!)
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears at Home Step-by-step instructions:
- Prepare your materials and find a comfortable spot for your dog.
- Gently hold your dog’s head and lift one ear flap. Be careful not to lift it too high or bend it back too far.
- Apply a small amount of ear cleaner to a cotton ball or gauze pad. Do not pour the cleaner directly into the ear canal.
- Gently wipe the inside of the ear flap, being sure to clean all crevices and folds. Use a fresh cotton ball or gauze pad for each swipe.
- Once you have finished cleaning the ear flap, let your dog shake its head to remove any excess cleaner.
- Repeat the process on the other ear.
- Reward your dog with treats for being a good dog!.
When cleaning your dog’s ears, be sure to be calm and gentle. Perhaps do it at a time of day when your dog is tired. Do not stick anything deep into the ear canal, as you could cause damage or infection. If your dog is nervous or uncomfortable, try playing calming music or giving them a chew toy to distract them.
By cleaning your dog’s ears regularly, you can prevent infections and other ear-related issues. Additionally, regular ear cleaning can help you detect problems early on, before they become serious.
Tips to help you clean your dogs ears
- Use a mixture of 50% isopropyl alcohol (or distilled water) and 50% vinegar: This solution can help to dissolve wax and debris in the ear canal the alcohol is also a drying agent. After applying, let your dog shake his head to help dislodge any remaining debris.
- Try a hair dryer: After cleaning your dog’s ears, use a hair dryer on the low or cool setting to dry any excess moisture. Be sure to hold the dryer at least a foot away from your dog’s ear to avoid burning.
- Use a baby bulb syringe: If your dog’s ear is particularly dirty or you need to flush out debris, try using a baby bulb syringe. Fill it with ear cleaning fluid and gently squirt the water into your dog’s ear, being careful not to push too hard.
- Consider using coconut oil: Coconut oil has natural antimicrobial properties and can help soothe the skin. Apply a few drops to your dog’s ear and massage gently.
Please check with your vet before trying any new ear cleaning methods, especially if your dog has a history of ear infections or other ear issues.
Regular ear cleaning is an essential part of your dog’s hygiene routine. Remember to always be gentle and generous with those treats! And never clean an infected ear without consulting a veterinarian.
FAQ
Q: Can I use cotton swabs (Q-tips) / cotton buds to clean my dog’s ears?
A: No, you should never use cotton swabs (Q-tips) or cotton buds to clean your dog’s ears, as this can push debris further into the ear canal and potentially damage the eardrum. Stick to using a soft, clean cloth or cotton wool balls.
Q: Can I use human ear cleaner on my dog?
A: No, you should always use a cleaner specifically formulated for dogs, as human ear cleaners can be too harsh and potentially irritate your dog’s ears.
Q: How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
A: This depends on the individual dog and its lifestyle. Dogs with floppy ears or those who swim often may require more frequent cleanings, while others may only need occasional cleanings. Monitor your dog’s ears regularly and clean them only when necessary, as over-cleaning can lead to irritation and infection.
Q: Can I use home remedies to clean my dog’s ears?
A: It’s generally best to stick to commercial dog ear cleaners or homemade solutions made specifically for dogs. Some home remedies, such as using hydrogen peroxide or essential oils, are best avoided as they can be too harsh and cause irritation or even injury to your dog’s ears.
Q: What if my dog’s ears are already infected?
A: If you suspect your dog’s ears are infected, do not attempt to clean them yourself. Contact your veterinarian for advice and treatment. Cleaning an infected ear can cause further harm and delay the healing process.
References:
Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis Externa in Dogs
