Every dog owner wants to ensure their pup’s health and happiness, but navigating the world of vet appointments, grooming, and training isn’t easy. That’s why it’s important to invest in products that make it easier for your furry friend.
So how can you keep your dog’s ears healthy year-round?
Ear infections, itching, and mites can be common problems for dogs, and prevention is key. Regularly inspecting your dog’s ears during grooming helps prevent dirt and wax, reducing the risk of health problems. But how often should you clean your dog’s ears? And which products are the best? We spoke to Fiona McGuckin MVB MRCVS, veterinary surgeon from Vet Village, to find out more.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
It is good practice to check your dog’s ears regularly to make sure they are clean and free of infection. But dogs’ ears are self-regulating, so they don’t need to be cleaned too much, as Fiona McGuckin MVB MRCVS explains. “In general, if your dog’s ears aren’t dirty, they probably don’t need to be cleaned,” says McGuckin. “Some breeds and individuals seem to have more problems with their ears, often related to conformation or atopy (skin allergies). These dogs may need more regular cleaning, and the schedule will depend on the individual.
According to research conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Basset Hounds, Beagles, Border Collies, Cockapoos, and Labradoodles are among the most common dog breeds to suffer from ear infections – due to their long, floppy and furry ears.
Dogs that spend a lot of time in water, like to play in the grass or are prone to allergies are also more likely to suffer from persistent ear problems. If you notice dirt, wax or an unpleasant smell, it is important to gently clean your dog’s ears. If symptoms are unclear, contact your vet for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.
How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?
“Infections will generally show up with a bad smell or a dog’s behavior,” McGuckin explains. “For example, head shaking, rubbing the face or head on the floor, pain when manipulating the ear, redness, inflammation, and exudate (fluid) when the ear itself is examined.”
Common symptoms of an ear infection:
- Swelling or inflammation
- Redness of the skin
- Yellow or brown discharge
- It smells bad
- Aggression or pain when the ear is touched
- Reluctance to let you near the head
- Constant ear scratching or head shaking
It is important to note that this is also a sign of ear mites. If concerned, contact your vet for a professional opinion, so appropriate treatment can be determined.
What should I avoid when cleaning my dog’s ears?
There is one golden rule to follow when cleaning your dog’s ears. “Don’t stick anything in the ear canal,” McGuckin warns. “The general rule in humans is ‘don’t put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear’, and I would advise the same for dogs.”
So, how should you provide a cleaning solution? “Pull the pinna (external ear flap) up and out of the skull – this gives us a nice long curve instead of the L shape of the ear canal in general,” he said. “Squeeze the cleaning product into the ears with the pinna extended. Massage from the pinna down to the skull. Stand back when the dog shakes its head. Then, wipe whatever is available using a clean swab or other non-abrasive material. Do not use a cotton bud, as there is a risk damage the eardrum.
My dog hates having his ears cleaned. How can we make the experience more comfortable?
Every dog owner knows how difficult it can be to check their puppy’s ears, so it’s important to make the experience comfortable, especially if it’s your first time. McGuckin recommends taking the process slowly. “Start by only handling the outer ear, with a reward. Continue until the dog allows you to handle the ear without bothering,” he advises.
“Once this is established, progress to placing the tip of the ear cleaner in the ear without using the liquid. Continue until the dog is comfortable with this step. Repeat gradually until you can clean the ear. If your dog remains aversive, you may need to discuss medication -medicines to reduce pain or aversiveness with the vet.
How to test the best dog ear cleaner
The following dog ear cleaning products were selected based on cost, research and reviews. We used two dogs, two Maltipoos, but it’s worth noting that each dog is different. If a reaction occurs, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian for advice.
The best dog ear cleaners in the UK:
I considered three key factors during the review process: quality materials, easy-to-follow instructions, and cost per use. Pets at Home Dog Ear Cleaner is definitely the most affordable at just £5 for a generous 200ml. With a small nozzle, it is easy to adjust and can be used on dogs of all ages, making it a great choice when training your puppy.
Can You Hear Me? Natural Ear Cleaner is also a great choice, as it’s proudly vegan with the Leaping Bunny stamp of approval. But squeeze solutions can be difficult to apply – especially if your dog is fussy.
My top choice? Herbal Plus Ear Cleaner from Sparkly Tails is beautifully packaged and easy to apply, all thanks to the tiny spray nozzle. It smells fresh, has minimal ingredients, and is proudly mess-free, as the solution does not need to be thrown away after use. A good all-rounder for dogs of all ages.