In some cases, as a dog owner, you cannot avoid cleaning the ears of your four-legged friend. Regular care is particularly important for dogs prone to ear infections. Our guide reveals how to clean dog ears properly and when it is necessary.
Why is cleaning dog ears important?
Firstly, it’s entirely normal for earwax to form inside a dog’s ears, as this ear secretion serves an essential cleaning function.
It binds deposits such as dead skin cells, hair, or dirt particles and transports them through the external ear canal to the outside. The sebaceous and sweat glands of the external ear canal continuously produce this yellow-brown, waxy substance.
However, in some cases, an excessive buildup of earwax occurs, or it undergoes inflammatory changes. Dogs with an ear infection often scratch their ears, which swell and turn red. Dogs with inflamed ears may also tilt their heads or shake them frequently.
When and how often should I clean dog ears?
Has your furry friend played in deep mud, and are his ears now externally dirty? In this case, you can easily remove the coarse dirt from the ear flap with a soft cloth:
However, in some cases, the dirt may be deeper, requiring a more thorough ear cleaning:
In case of ear mite infestation:
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are not uncommon in dogs and cause a condition known as ear mites. They live in the external ear canal, feeding on tissue fluid and skin cells.
Typically, mite infestation causes the earwax to darken to a dark brown or black color. The substance also begins to smell foul and irritates the skin inside the ear, leading to potential infections.
Before an ear examination:
If a veterinarian needs to examine your dog’s ear more closely using an otoscope, he must clean the ears beforehand.
The otoscope allows a view into the external ear canal and onto the eardrum. Veterinarians use it, for example, when suspecting middle ear infection (otitis media) or when trying to locate a foreign object, such as a grass awn, in the ear.
For dogs prone to infections:
Generally, healthy dog ears do not need regular cleaning. However, if your dog tends to have frequently dirty and infected ears, it is advisable to clean them regularly.
Bathing in lakes, ponds, or streams is also a common cause of ear infections.
How do I clean dog ears correctly?
You can usually clean your dog’s ears at home without veterinary assistance. Follow the step-by-step guide below:
- Examine the ear Before each ear cleaning, it is essential to examine the ears from the outside and inside. Look for possible injuries or irritations on the ear flap. If your dog does not allow you to touch his ears, possibly due to pain, you can have his ears cleaned by a veterinarian.
- Apply rinsing solution To later remove dirt and earwax, it is helpful to apply a mild rinsing solution. Avoid using common soaps or solutions with alcohol, as they can damage the delicate skin and cause painful inflammation. Special ear cleaners adapted for dogs’ ear skin are recommended.
- Massage the solution into the ear To loosen all dirt particles in the depths of the dog’s ear, you need to massage the solution. Use your fingers to reach the base of your dog’s ear and gently knead and massage the liquid.
- Remove dirt with tissues You can now remove the dirt loosened by the solution using cotton wool or soft tissues. Under no circumstances use cotton swabs, as they can injure internal ear structures such as the eardrum. Also, they can push earwax deeper into the ear canals. Usually, your dog will shake his head afterward, expelling the cleaner and dirt from his ear.
What else should I consider when cleaning dog ears?
Dog ears are generally very sensitive. To avoid injuries or infections in the ear, it is essential to proceed carefully and gently during cleaning. Make sure to use only mild solutions and blunt tools.
If your dog reacts with severe pain, stop cleaning for the time being and reassure your dog. If your dog does not calm down and completely refuses ear cleaning, a veterinarian can provide assistance.
