Not every dog needs routine ear cleaning, and cleaning too often can irritate the ear. Check the visible ear and ask your veterinarian whether your dog needs cleaning and which product to use. This guide follows VCA Animal Hospitals’ ear-cleaning instructions; it is not a diagnosis or treatment plan.

Quick card

Quick Card: Ear care

IssueCleaning ears on a fixed schedule.
FixInspect gently and follow veterinary guidance.
DifficultyEasy

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First check whether cleaning is needed

If the ears look comfortable and your veterinarian has not recommended a routine, do not clean just because a calendar says to. After swimming or when debris is visible, ask your veterinary team whether cleaning is appropriate for your dog. Do not put a cleaner into an ear that is red, inflamed, painful, or producing unusual discharge; contact your veterinarian first.

Ask the veterinarian which cleaner is suitable. Avoid putting cotton swabs into the canal; they can push debris deeper or injure the ear. VCA recommends using the chosen product according to its instructions, then wiping loosened material from the parts of the ear you can see. Do not improvise with household liquids or medication.

If your veterinarian has advised cleaning

Follow the product and clinic instructions. Work calmly, stop if your dog appears painful or distressed, and wipe only accessible outer surfaces. The correct technique and frequency can differ by dog and ear condition; ask the clinic to demonstrate if you have not done it before.

When to call the veterinarian

Seek veterinary advice for redness, swelling, pain, persistent head shaking or scratching, strong odor, discharge, or a sudden change in hearing or balance. A cleaning routine is not a substitute for checking the cause.

Sources

Author

Doxie Lowdown Team