How to Clean Your Dog's Ears: Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Did you know that keeping your dog's ears clean not only prevents infections, but also improves their quality of life? Many owners wonder: What happens if I don't clean their ears? or How do I know if they need cleaning? If you've ever asked yourself these questions or noticed that your furry friend is constantly shaking his head, this blog is for you! Here you will learn step by step how to safely clean your dog's ears, what tools to use, what to avoid, and how to know if something is not right. Get ready to care for your best friend with love and confidence.

Importance of cleaning dogs' ears

Keeping your dog's ears clean is key to their health and well-being. Dogs' ears, especially those with long or furry ears, are more prone to collecting dirt, moisture, and wax, which can become an ideal environment for bacteria, fungus, and infections. A proper cleaning routine not only helps prevent these problems, but also improves your pet's comfort and quality of life.

In addition, regular cleaning can help you detect warning signs early, such as redness, bad odor or unusual secretions, which could indicate an infection or allergy in dogs . Remember that some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels or Golden Retrievers, require more attention due to their predisposition to hearing problems.

Clean your dog's ears with specific products recommended by your veterinarian, always avoiding cotton swabs as they could damage internal structures of the ear, which could cause harm. Do it carefully and regularly, but without overdoing it, as excessive cleaning can also be harmful as it can irritate the skin.

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How to clean a dog's ears at home?

1. Find a quiet place where your dog is comfortable. Have a dog ear cleaner (recommended by your vet), cotton or gauze, and towels on hand to wipe away any excess moisture.

2. Before cleaning, inspect the ears for redness, odor, lesions, discharge, or signs of discomfort. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consult your veterinarian before proceeding.

3. Gently hold your dog's ear and apply a few drops of the cleaner into the outer ear, according to the product instructions. Be careful not to insert anything too deep into the ear.

4. Once you've applied the cleaner, massage from the base of the ear upwards for about 20-30 seconds to help loosen any dirt and wax build-up. Your dog may shake his head to get the liquid out, don't worry, this is normal!

5. Use a cotton swab or cotton ball to gently clean the outer ear and remove any ear cleaner residue or debris. Do not insert anything into the ear canal.

6. If the ear still looks dirty, you can repeat the process, always being careful. Do the same on the other ear.

7. Finish your dog's ear cleaning with a delicious and healthy reward! Waggy's Salmon or Tuna Bites natural dog treats are perfect for pampering your pet after a good grooming session. Made with 100% natural ingredients, without grains or artificial preservatives, these treats are enriched with omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin. In addition, their high protein content contributes to your furry friend's muscle health and is ideal even for the most sensitive. A treat full of flavor and benefits that will have your dog looking forward to their next cleaning!

How often should I clean my dog's ears?

The ideal frequency for cleaning your dog's ears depends on his breed, lifestyle, and individual conditions, but in general, every 2-4 weeks is recommended. Breeds with long, furry, or infection-prone ears, such as Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, may need more frequent monitoring. However, this doesn't mean that more frequent cleaning is needed. Clean your dog's ears based on the amount of dirt and fluid present in the ear to avoid irritating the ear canal. If your dog swims frequently or has a history of ear problems, such as canine ear infection , consult your veterinarian to adjust the routine for his specific needs.

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What to use to clean your dog's ears?

• Dog Specific Ear Cleaner : This product is essential as it is formulated to safely clean without irritating the ear canal.

• Cotton or gauze : Ideal for cleaning the outside of the ear and removing excess cleaner or dirt. They are soft and do not leave residue compared to other materials.

• Clean towels : Useful for drying ears and cleaning up any spills during the grooming process. They help keep everything tidy and comfortable for your dog.

• Snacks or rewards like Waggy's Bites: Perfect for rewarding your dog after cleaning, making him associate the experience with something positive.

With these simple and safe tools, you can keep your dog's ears clean and healthy, reducing the risk of infections.

What should you avoid using?

When cleaning your dog's ears, avoid using the following products and tools, as they may cause irritation, damage, or make the problem worse:

• Cotton swabs : They can push dirt deeper into the ear canal or damage the eardrum if inserted too far.

• Alcohol or hydrogen peroxide : These products are irritating to the sensitive skin of the ear and may cause discomfort or excessive dryness.

• Oils or home remedies without veterinary supervision : Substances such as vinegar, essential oils or homemade mixtures could unbalance the natural environment of the ear or cause allergic reactions.

• Regular soaps or shampoos : These are not designed for the ear canal and could leave residue or cause irritation.

• Products not specifically for pets : Avoid generic or human cleaners, since the pH of dogs' ears is different and they need products suitable for their physiology.

Only use cleaners recommended by your veterinarian and specifically designed for dogs to ensure their safety and well-being. If your dog is suffering from otitis or is showing signs of inflammation or pain in the ear area, Waggy's Wellness soothing dog treats can be a great ally in their recovery.

Enriched with 100% natural ingredients and a carefully designed formula, these treats are boosted with Omega fatty acids and pumpkin, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relieve discomfort. In addition, their CBD content for dogs can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with problems such as otitis, promoting a feeling of calm and well-being. With their comprehensive action, these treats not only support ear health, but also strengthen the immune system, improve digestion and keep the coat radiant. A delicious and effective way to care for your dog with love!

What happens if I don't clean my dog's ears?

If you don't clean your dog's ears regularly, dirt, wax and moisture can build up, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi. This can lead to painful infections such as otitis, which often cause discomfort, redness, bad odor and discharge. In addition, lack of cleaning can aggravate pre-existing allergies or skin problems, affect their hearing and even cause more serious complications if not treated in time. Maintaining a cleaning routine is essential to prevent these problems and ensure the health of your furry friend.

How do I know if my dog ​​has ear disease? Signs

• If your dog repeatedly shakes his head or tilts it to one side, he may be trying to relieve ear discomfort.

• Constant scratching in or around the ears may be a sign of itching, irritation, or pain.

• An unpleasant odor coming from the ears could indicate a bacterial or fungal infection.

• If the ears are red, swollen, or warm to the touch, there is likely a problem.

• The presence of dark earwax, pus or any other type of abnormal discharge is a warning sign.

• If your dog reacts with discomfort when you touch his ears, he could be experiencing pain.

• Lack of energy, loss of appetite or irritability can be indirect signs of ear discomfort.

If you notice one or more of these signs, it is important to take your dog to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently asked questions about cleaning a dog's ears

Can I use homemade products to clean my dog's ears?

It is not advisable to use household products to clean your dog's ears, as substances such as vinegar, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation, dryness or even damage the ear canal. Dogs' ears are sensitive and require specific cleaners formulated to maintain the natural pH balance and ensure their safety. If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for recommendations on suitable products and how to use them correctly.

What if my dog ​​shakes his head after cleaning his ears?

It's completely normal for your dog to shake his head after you clean his ears, as this is his natural way of expelling any excess fluid or debris that may have been left in the ear canal. This movement helps to complete the cleaning. However, if he shakes his head excessively or seems uncomfortable for a long time, it could be a sign that irritation or debris is still present in the ear. In this case, check carefully and, if it persists, consult your veterinarian to rule out any problems.

How do I know when my dog ​​needs an ear cleaning?

You'll know your dog needs an ear cleaning if you notice visible wax buildup, a bad odor, or dirt inside his ears. It's also a good time to clean them if your dog shakes his head, scratches his ears frequently, or shows signs of discomfort. However, it's not necessary to clean his ears if they look clean and dry, as excessive cleaning can be harmful.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog's ears clean is a caring gesture that protects his health and keeps him happy. With a proper routine, recommended products, and lots of love, you can prevent problems and ensure his well-being. Remember that clean ears are key to a healthy and adventurous life with your furry friend!