Cleaning your dogs ears is an important part of their grooming routine to ensure good health and happiness. Here are some tips on how to clean your dogs ears safely and effectively:
What you need:
- Cotton ball or gauze
- Dog ear-cleaning solution
- Clean, dry towel
What to avoid:
- Cotton-tipped swabs or anything with a pointed tip
- Harsh cleaners or instruments such as alcohol-based wipes or Q-Tips
- Hydrogen peroxide
Steps to follow:
- Gently wipe around the entrance of the ear with damp cotton wool to remove dirt or excess wax.
- Fill your dogs ear canal with a veterinary ear-cleaning solution and massage gently at the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. Dont let the tip of the applicator touch your dogs ear, as this can contaminate the solution with bacteria.
- Let your dog shake their head and use a towel to protect yourself from spray and wipe down their face if the solution drips out of their ears.
- Take the cotton ball or gauze and gently wipe out the ear.
It is important to note that ear cleaning, while simple, can be messy. You may want to clean your dogs ears in a bathroom or a room that is easy to clean in case your dog shakes their head vigorously during the process. Also, before you begin, check with your veterinarian to see how often you should clean your dogs ears. Your pets age, breed, coat, and activity level can determine the frequency.