How to clean dog ears: A step-by-step guide

Dog owners know how annoying it can be keeping their pups’ ears clean, especially if they’re the kind of dogs that enjoy playing and exploring. It’s easy to overlook, but ear hygiene is an important part of dog care: ears are hotspots for moisture and microorganisms and it’s up to us, as owners, to make sure they don’t cause problems for our canine companions . Big or small, floppy or straight, caring for dogs’ ears doesn’t have to be a pain and in most cases you can clean them yourself at home. Get started with our step-by-step guide, including useful cleaning tips, and advice on when it might be necessary to see a vet. The essentials of ear cleaning for dogs Ear cleaning is a part of good dog grooming . The process is not just about cleanliness: it's also an opportunity to check your dog for signs of infection, for ear mites, or even foreign material - problems which could cause discomfort down the line, and lead to a trip to the vet. How to clean dogs’ ears at home If you’re comfortable cleaning your dog’s ears yourself, you’ll need a few things first. A home dog ear cleaning kit is cheap and simple to assemble, and should include: Dog ear cleaning solutions : It’s important that you purchase a dog-specific ear cleaning solution. You must not use ear cleaners meant for humans or other animals. Dog ear cleaners are available from your vet, as well as supermarkets, pet stores, and online. If you want to ensure you are using a safe and reputable product, it’s best to consult with your vet about the best options. Cleaning your dog’s ears step-by-step Once you’ve assembled your ear cleaning kit, it’s time to get down to business. Let’s go through the cleaning process step-by-step: How often should you clean your dog’s ears? There’s no rule for how frequently you’ll need to clean your dog's ears, but you should check them regularly, and clean if there is a buildup of dirt or wax. Keep in mind, in healthy non-inflamed ears, cleaning TOO often can cause irritation and excessive dryness. With that in mind, the need to clean dogs’ ears may depend on their breed , lifestyle, and general health. Breeds with particularly droopy ears (for example, Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds) are more prone to ear infections due to limited airflow in their ears, while dogs that love a good swim can benefit from cleaning after a swim to prevent infections. Professional ear cleaning for dogs You don’t have to clean your dog’s ears yourself. Instead, you could get in touch with your vet and their team, or a professional grooming service. Most dog groomers will offer ear inspection and cleaning - and prices for that service will vary. Dog ear cleaning: When to see a vet If your dog's ears are particularly sensitive or inflamed, they may have an infection, which can also be characterised by redness, discharge, or foul smell. Ear mites can also cause discomfort to dogs. If you suspect your dog has an ear infection or has ear mites, you should contact a vet before you clean them. Cleaning infected ears could cause your dog harm in particular if the eardrum is affected or damaged, so it's crucial to get advice from a vet and, if necessary, a treatment plan to clear up the infection. How much does dog ear cleaning cost? You can purchase dog ear cleaning solutions, and the other tools you’ll need for the cleaning process, for around £5-10 from most retailers. If you choose to go to a dog groomer to get your dog’s ears cleaned you may end up paying more for the service. If your dog has an infection, you may need to pay for medical treatment, such as antibiotics, before you can clean their ears. Ear cleaning for proactive care Cleaning your dog's ears is a simple, at-home task that can proactively keep your pet healthy , preventing infections (and vet bills) down the line. Regular ear checks, based on your dog’s needs, are key and, whether you prefer to clean their ears yourself or go to a groomer, you’ll find an approach which suits you. While you’re thinking about grooming, don’t forget that the best way to protect your pet’s general health includes having a reliable pet insurance plan in place. ManyPets offers dog insurance - so you can care for your furry family members without added financial stress.

How to clean dog ears: A step-by-step guide

Content

Foxtails and dogs: understanding the risks and how to protect your pup

How to celebrate your dog's birthday

How long should dogs be outside in hot weather?

Lewis Martins

What pet owners need to know about thelaziasis – the eye worm infection that could hit the uk

The cost of neutering a cat in the UK

A guide to dog and cat vaccinations costs in the UK

How much does it cost to neuter a dog in the UK?

Our guide to walking your dog in winter

Our plans

Resources

Company

Follow us

Country