If a dog's ears are not cleaned in time, it can cause discomfort. It may lead to ear inflammation, even hearing loss, and produce odor. So how to clean dog ears? Introduction to dog ear cleaning methods.

1. Causes Leading to Dog Ear Susceptibility to Disease

1. Climate is humid and hot

In regions with a more humid and high-temperature climate, pets with floppy ears or more ear hair are more prone to infections and inflammation, with recurring ear diseases. If waiting until the ear is already red and inflamed to clean and treat, the ear will be very sensitive and painful during cleaning.

2. Ears covering the ear canal

If a dog has floppy ears, the ear canal is often covered by the outer ear. Especially in poorly ventilated conditions, bacteria can easily breed, and earwax accumulates. Owners are advised to frequently flip open the ears to keep the ear canal dry. Even after cleaning, wipe the outer ear dry as much as possible.

3. Dog ear canal is L-shaped

Human ear canals go straight to the eardrum, but pet cats and dogs have L-shaped ear canals. If their ears are not properly maintained, simple otitis externa can turn into serious ear hematomas, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.

Dogs’ ears need owners’ careful attention and care.

2. Regularly Clean Ears to Prevent Inflammation

1. The more wrong you clean, the worse it gets

Some owners clean inside the ear using cotton swabs, not realizing improper cleaning can cause ear infections. It is recommended to use cotton balls to clean the ears.

Friendly reminder: owners only need to clean the visible areas. For deeper cleaning, it is best to have a professional veterinarian handle it.

2. Home daily care

Since the dog's ear canal is L-shaped, ear cleaner liquid does not easily flow out. At this time, gently massage the base of the dog’s ear about ten times to help dissolve earwax. Then let the dog shake its head so most of the cleaner and dirt will be expelled.

3. Repeat the same action

Owners are advised to repeat the same motion several times to make the ears cleaner, and finally wipe the outer ear dry. Remember never to dig forcibly, as this will make the dog uncomfortable.

4. Warm the ear cleaner

Before using ear cleaner liquid, warm it with a water bath to make the temperature close to the dog's body temperature. Because dogs’ ears are sensitive, especially when sick, warming it helps reduce irritation, making it easier for the dog to accept.

3. Signs of Dog Ear Problems and Cleaning Steps

1. Signs of ear disease

If the dog frequently shakes its head, continuously scratches its ears, has a tilted head, or the ear canal emits strong odors and dirt, and the ears appear slightly red, be cautious of possible inflammation or infection.

2. Getting accustomed to ear cleaning

Cleaning a dog’s ears is not difficult, but it’s best to start familiarizing them with the process when they are young. You can also give treats and encouragement tone while cleaning to build a positive impression of ear cleaning.

Friendly tip: Owners should control the pressure while cleaning and avoid being too nervous to prevent scaring or injuring the dog's ears.