Dog Ear Care: Tips for Cleaning & Ear Health

Ear issues in dogs can contribute to discomfort in our canine companions. That’s why regular dog ear care should be part of your everyday routine. Learn how to clean your dog’s ears and which dog ear care products you should have on hand.

Ear Care for Dogs: Why It Matters

Your dog’s ears are essential tools in their daily lives. Not only do they help dogs interpret the world around them through audible sounds and cues, but your pup’s ears contribute to balance and their overall health.

But wax and yeast buildup, seasonal allergens, and debris can all cause dog ear issues that can make your dog uncomfortable and unhappy. Practicing regular dog ear care and cleaning is one easy way to be proactive about your best friend’s health.

Dog Ear Facts

Hearing Range

A dog can hear sounds between 67 Hz and 45,000 Hz. This is a much larger range than humans can hear!

Many Muscles

A dog’s ear contains 18 different muscles that control its movement. These muscles help dogs pinpoint the direction of sounds.

Special Shape

The canine ear canal is shaped like the letter L. This nearly 90-degree angle helps to keep dirt and debris out of the inner ear.

Emotional Expression

Your dog uses their ears to show their emotions like engagement, relaxation, and fear. They are an important part of dog body language.

Signs of Dog Ear Issues

Dog Ear Care & Cleaning Tips

At-home dog ear care is simple. Follow this advice to keep your dog’s ears clean and comfortable:

How to Clean a Dog’s Ears

Step 1:

Distribute a dog ear cleaning solution into your pet’s ear canal according to package instructions.

Step 2:

Gently massage the solution in your dog’s ear, helping it to penetrate hard-to-reach areas.

Step 3:

Let your dog shake their ears. This can help remove dirt & debris.

Step 4:

Gently wipe away excess product and buildup using a soft cotton round, tissue, or towel.

Step 5:

Repeat as needed, following package instructions.

Dog Ear Care Advice

Keep ears dry.

After swimming or bathing, make sure to dry your dog’s ears well.

Use a dog-suitable ear cleaner.

Only use ear cleaners formulated for dogs.

Keep ear hair trimmed.

Trimming and brushing the hair around your dog’s ears can help keep them clean.

Do NOT use cotton swabs.

Never stick a cotton swab or Q-Tip into your dog’s ears. This can cause discomfort or push debris further into the ear canal.

Consider supplements for seasonal allergies.

Some allergy & immune supplements for dogs can support with seasonal allergies, occasional itching, and dryness that may affect your dog’s ears.

Dog Ear Care Products

At-home ear cleaning and support starts with the right dog ear care products. A research-backed dog ear cleaner like Clear Ears Therapy is beneficial for routine maintenance, while PetLab Co.’s Allergy & Immune chews work from the inside out to support with occasional itching caused by seasonal allergies. Try them out and then go give your pup all the ear rubs they deserve!