🐶 Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Matters
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Removes dirt, wax, and debris
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Prevents ear infections (especially in floppy-eared breeds)
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Helps you spot early signs of problems like mites or yeast infections
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Keeps your dog comfortable and itch-free
🛠 What You’ll Need
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Dog ear cleaning solution (vet-approved, never alcohol or hydrogen peroxide)
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Cotton balls or gauze pads (not Q-tips!)
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A towel
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Treats for rewarding good behavior
✨ Step-by-Step: How to Clean Dogs Ears
1. Get Your Dog Comfortable
Sit your dog in a calm environment. Use a towel to gently wrap smaller or squirmy dogs. Offer a treat before starting.
2. Apply the Cleaning Solution
Gently lift the ear flap and squeeze a few drops of ear cleaner into the ear canal. Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to the ear.
3. Massage the Ear
Massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds. You’ll often hear a “squishing” sound — this helps loosen wax and debris.
4. Let Your Dog Shake
Allow your dog to shake their head. This helps bring debris to the outer ear.
5. Wipe the Ear Clean
Use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe the inside of the ear flap and opening. Do not push anything deep into the canal.
🚨 When to See a Vet
Stop and contact your vet if you notice:
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Redness, swelling, or foul odor
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Dark discharge or pus
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Persistent scratching or head shaking
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Pain when touching the ears
💡 Pro Tips
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Check your dog’s ears weekly.
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Clean only when there’s visible dirt or as recommended by your vet.
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Breeds with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels) may need more frequent care.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Learning how to clean dogs ears is simple once you know the steps. With the right tools, patience, and positive reinforcement, you can keep your pup’s ears healthy and avoid painful infections.
