Essential Guide on How to Clean Dog Ears Safely and Gently

Keeping your dog’s ears clean isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about health. Many dog owners underestimate how essential ear cleaning is to their furry friend’s overall well-being. Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs end up at the vet, but the good news is that most of these problems are preventable with a little routine care to avoid infections.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cleaning your dog’s ears—vet-approved tips, step-by-step instructions, signs of ear problems, and mistakes to avoid. Whether you’ve got a floppy-eared Golden Retriever or a pointy-eared German Shepherd, clean ears equal a happier, healthier dog.

Dogs’ ears are more complex than human ears. To properly clean dog ears, it is important to understand their structure. Their ear canals are L-shaped, which makes it easier for debris and moisture to get trapped. Left unchecked, this can lead to:

• Ear infections

• Yeast overgrowth

• Ear mites

• Hearing loss

• Chronic irritation or scratching

The structure of a dog's ear canal complicates the expulsion of debris without external cleaning aid, which can lead to discomfort and infections if neglected.

Ear infections can occur due to allergies or parasites in dogs.

Some breeds—like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Poodles—are especially prone to ear issues due to their floppy ears or hairy ear canals, which reduce airflow and create the perfect environment for bacteria. Dogs with droopy ears require more regular ear cleaning due to increased moisture and debris retention.

Even if your dog doesn’t fall into a high-risk category, regular ear cleaning can help prevent painful infections and expensive vet visits. It is recommended to clean a dog’s ears after swimming or bathing to remove excess moisture.

Here’s a safe and vet-approved method for cleaning your dog's ears at home: Cleaning your dog's ears can be done at home if the dog is comfortable and well conditioned for the process.

After you have finished cleaning, make sure to apply any prescribed ear drops promptly to ensure effective absorption. Proper ear handling is crucial during this process to prevent any discomfort or injury. Reward your dog with treats and positive reinforcement immediately after finished cleaning to make the experience more pleasant for them.

1. Choose a Calm Time and Environment

Pick a quiet moment when your dog is relaxed. Use a non-slip surface and have everything within arm’s reach. If your dog is nervous or fidgety, you might need someone to help you hold them still.

2. Inspect the Ears

Before applying any cleaner, look into the ear for signs of infection or injury. If you see swelling, pus, a bad smell, or your dog appears in pain, stop and consult your vet.

3. Apply the Ear Cleaner

Gently lift your dog’s ear flap (also called the pinna) and squeeze a few drops of the ear cleaner into the ear canal. Follow the instructions on the bottle for dosage.

4. Massage the Base of the Ear

This part is important—gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds. You’ll hear a squishing sound as the solution loosens debris inside the canal.

5. Let Your Dog Shake It Out

Stand back! Your dog will likely shake their head, which helps bring debris to the outer part of the ear. This is a good thing—it’s part of the cleaning process.

6. Wipe Away Debris

Use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe the visible part of the ear canal and inside the ear flap. Don’t push anything deep inside the ear.

7. Reward Your Dog

Give a treat, some praise, and a scratch behind the ear. This turns ear cleaning into a more positive experience.

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, but here are general guidelines for a routine ear clean: Regular ear examinations will help catch any problems before they worsen.

It is important to regularly check your dog's ears as part of routine care to identify potential health issues such as ear infections.

• Floppy-eared or long-haired breeds : Once a week

• Active outdoor dogs : Every 1–2 weeks

• Swimmers : After every swim

• Short-haired, indoor dogs : Once a month or as needed

If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian for a personalized recommendation based on your dog’s breed, age, and activity level.

Many dog owners unknowingly make mistakes that can cause more harm than good. Here’s what not to do:

a. Avoid Using Cotton Tip Applicators

Using cotton tip applicators can be risky as they may perforate the ear drum. It is crucial to maintain ear health and avoid any actions that could compromise the integrity of the ear drum. Always consult a veterinarian for proper ear cleaning techniques.

b. Don’t Over Clean

Over cleaning your dog's ears can lead to irritation and potential infections in the ear canal. It is important to understand the signs that indicate when cleaning is needed and to avoid exacerbating existing issues by over-cleaning.

c. Using the Wrong Products

Read the ingredients label and avoid alcohol, EDTA, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or homemade solutions unless your vet approves. These can irritate sensitive ear tissue.

d. Cleaning Too Deep

Never insert cotton swabs into the ear canal. You can damage the eardrum or push debris further in.

e. Overcleaning

Excessive cleaning can cause dryness and irritation. Always clean only when necessary or based on your vet’s guidance.

f. Skipping the Drying Step

Especially after swimming or bathing, trapped moisture can lead to infections. Always dry ears thoroughly after exposure to water.

Cleaning is meant for maintenance , not treatment . If your dog has an ear infection, cleaning alone won’t fix it—and might make things worse. Proper ear treatment is essential to address any infections effectively.

It's crucial to identify the underlying cause of ear problems, such as ear conformation, allergies, or parasites. Without addressing these underlying issues, ear discomfort or infections may recur, making it essential for pet owners to monitor their dog's ear health and seek veterinary advice when changes are observed.

Contact your vet if you notice:

• Persistent bad odor

• Blood or pus-like discharge

• Visible swelling or heat

• Extreme head shaking or scratching

• Pain when touching the ears

• Loss of balance or tilting the head

Veterinarians may prescribe ear drops, oral antibiotics, or a professional ear flush depending on the diagnosis.

Special Considerations for Different Dog Breeds

Floppy-Eared Dogs (e.g., Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds)

These breeds trap moisture more easily. Weekly checks and cleaning are a must.

Hairy-Eared Dogs (e.g., Poodles, Shih Tzus)

These dogs often grow hair inside the ear canal. Trimming or plucking (by a groomer or vet) may be necessary for airflow and cleanliness.

Swimmers (e.g., Labradors, Retrievers)

Moisture is the enemy. Always dry ears thoroughly and use a drying ear rinse after water activities.

Natural Remedies and DIY Cleaners: Are They Safe?

You’ll find many DIY recipes online—like vinegar and water or green tea rinses—but not all are safe. Some may disrupt the natural pH balance or irritate the ear.

Waxy buildup can lead to infections and other ear problems, so it's crucial to use appropriate products for routine maintenance and inspections.

If you’re looking for a natural cleaner, choose Petglow Natural ear solution.

Not all dogs enjoy having their ears touched, but you can train them to accept it.

• Start by touching the ears gently during cuddle time.

• Gradually introduce the ear cleaner bottle without using it—just let them sniff it.

• Practice short, positive sessions with treats and praise.

• Avoid forcing or rushing the process—go slow and be consistent.

Proper training is crucial for the effective application of ear medication, ensuring that your dog remains calm and cooperative during treatment.

Over time, many dogs grow to tolerate or even enjoy their ear cleaning routine.