Ear cleaning is a small grooming habit that makes a big difference, especially for dogs with floppy ears, hairy ear canals, or a love of swimming. Done gently and at the right frequency, it helps keep ears clean, dry and comfortable.
How often should you clean your dog's ears?
There is no single schedule for every dog. Many dogs only need a quick check each week and a cleaning when ears look dirty. Dogs that swim often or have long, heavy ears may benefit from cleaning every week or two. Over-cleaning can irritate the ear, so let what you see guide you.
What you will need
- A gentle ear cleanser made for pets
- Cotton balls or soft gauze pads
- A towel (things can get a little messy)
- Treats to keep the experience positive
Skip cotton swabs. They can push debris deeper into the canal and can injure the ear if your dog moves suddenly.
Step-by-step
- Pick a calm moment. A relaxed dog after a walk is easier to work with than an excited one.
- Look first. Lift the ear flap and check for redness, swelling, strong odor or discharge. If you see any of these, stop and contact your veterinarian before cleaning.
- Apply the cleanser. Follow the product directions. For most liquid cleansers, you gently fill or moisten the ear canal.
- Massage the base of the ear. Gently rub for 20 to 30 seconds. You will often hear a soft squishing sound as the cleanser loosens debris.
- Let your dog shake. This brings loosened debris up and out. Stand back or hold up the towel.
- Wipe the visible areas. Use a cotton ball to wipe the inside of the ear flap and the opening of the canal. Never push into the canal.
- Reward. Finish with praise and a treat so your dog learns that ear care is a good thing.
Signs that need a vet visit
Home cleaning is for maintenance, not for treating problems. Call your veterinarian if you notice frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, a bad smell, dark or yellow discharge, redness, swelling, pain when the ear is touched, or a head tilt. These can be signs of an infection or other issue that needs professional care.
Tips for nervous dogs
Start slowly. Touch and handle the ears for a few seconds at a time, paired with treats, before you ever introduce a cleanser. Over several days, build up to the full routine. A helper to gently hold and comfort your dog can make a big difference.
Products that can help
Our Ear Care cleanser is made for routine use on dogs and cats. Pair it with our Revitalizing Shampoo and Skin & Coat Spray for a complete grooming routine, or explore the full Dog Pet Care collection.
This guide is general information and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If you are unsure about your pet's ear health, check with your veterinarian.