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Though mostly self-sufficient, your dog’s ears should be cleaned routinely. Done correctly, it’s an excellent habit to get into!
As far as ear trouble goes, it isn’t unheard of (no pun intended) for dogs.
But seriously…
Bigger breeds are more prone to infections as are those spending lots of time outdoors.
One thing is certain…
You should visit your vet if your dog may have an ear infection. Now, let’s talk preventative care!
You Can Clean Your Dog’s Ears
It can certainly be done with the right products.
Hydrocortisone ear treatment, one that’s made specifically for dogs, is going to be the best treatment for bacterial infections.
But wait!
A brownish waxy secretion inside the ear canals is normal for a dog. No need to remove that!
Instead, the inside of the flaps should be the focus.
Tip: Convenient, disposable ear wipes (designed for dogs) help a lot!
Preventative Pet Care
Debris can accumulate in and around the ear flaps from running in weeds, brush or tall grass.
These factors can eventually cause irritation and eventually an infection.
So…
Inspect your dog often. Prevent ear issues before they can develop into something requiring a vet’s care.
Canine Ear Infections
Ear infections are common among Schnauzers, Poodles and other breeds that get professionally groomed.
It’s important that the hair inside your dog’s ear canals isn’t plucked out.
Why is that?
It prevents ear infections by defending against foreign materials.
Treatment for Dog Ears
Concerned about debris or dirt inside their ear flaps?
Use a damp cloth with mineral oil to wipe it away.
This is a sensitive area. Take your time!
For our dogs, we use inexpensive but effective moist wipes which are easy to use.
They really help dissolve wax build-up while also cleaning the area. You can do this during bathing time.
Be gentle!
Never put applicators such as cotton tipped buds, like Q-Tips, or swabs directly into a dog’s ear canals.
You don’t want to push the buildup (either debris or wax) further into the ear drum.
Watch this informative video!
Your dog should be fine if you stick to cleaning the skin folds of the outer ear.
Best Ear Medicines
A discharge or a blockage or excessive wax accumulation means a vet is needed. It’s a sign of a bacterial or yeast infection.
This is why preventative care is key.
Thankfully, ear drop medicines usually work well for several kinds of ear inflammation.
Treatment should make direct contact with the infected area (usually near the eardrum).
Vets have a technique whereby they massage the base of the ear which spreads around the medicine.
Restrain your dog to administer the medicine effectively and safely. You don’t want to tear the canal wall.
Use of Antibiotics
At the veterinarian’s practice, your dog may be prescribed an antibiotic for an infection.
Brands for treating ear problems include:
- Tresderm
- Liquichlor
- Gentocin Otic
- Panolog
Obviously negative reactions are possible anytime your dog takes drugs.
Close observation is a must!
The Bottom Line
You can and should clean your dog’s ears.
Many pets do not need frequent cleaning, but a routine is smart. Of course, get professional assistance for a dog experiencing an ear infection.
If you can’t an over-the-counter canine-formulated Hydrocortisone solution may work.
We just had or Toy Poodle groomed and dirt or wax build-up, that was rock hard, was removed. She said she had never seen a case so bad. I forgot what she said to sooth the ear pain. Now the dog seems very uncomfortable. What can I do because the vet is unreachable?
Can I flush my dog’s ears with warm water?
If it is only a matter of cleaning the ears and your dog isn’t suffering from regular ear infections, you can use a half and half mixture of vinegar and water. The problem with using plain ol’ warm water is that you’re helping to create an environment for bacteria and yeast to cultivate. For this reason, I also prefer to use distilled water.