CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Rebecca Macmillan, Fear Free,
Ear cleaning
Ear cleaning
Ear disease is quite common in dogs, and you should make ear examination part of a weekly health check for your pet. If your dog’s ears look red or sore on the inside, if there is a smell coming from the ears or if your pet is shaking its head excessively then contact your veterinarian for advice. Ear disease can quickly take hold and is unlikely to get better without proper treatment. Ear disease left untreated can cause permanent damage to the ear canals and make your pet more likely to have ongoing problems.
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Why do I need to clean my dog’s ears?
A dog’s ear is quite a different shape to ours. Humans simply have a horizontal tube that runs straight from the side of the head into the inner ear (auditory canal). In the dog however, the outside opening of the ear canal is high on the side of the head. The canal then runs vertically down the side of the head and makes a sharp right angle into the inner ear. Additionally, some dogs have an ear flap which can partially cover the canal opening. As a result, the ear canal can become very hot and moist in some dogs, leading to secondary issues.
If your dog develops an ear infection or has problems with excessive wax build-up, then your veterinarian may recommend regular ear cleaning. Debris and secretions can accumulate in the ear canal, preventing medicated ear drops from working effectively.
Many dogs do not require routine ear cleaning. Cleaning the ears too frequently could also cause problems, so always speak to your veterinarian if you are unsure what is best for your dog.
Will I be able to clean my dog’s ears?
Most animals tolerate routine ear cleaning well but if you find it very difficult to clean your dog’s ears, do not struggle alone. If you are unable to clean your dog’s ears easily, you will not do a very good job and may in fact damage the ears more. You may also make your dog afraid of you handling its head. If your dog’s ears are very sore, or if your dog is difficult to handle, tell your veterinarian. They may need to prescribe pain relief medication and sedate or anesthetize your dog in order to be able to clean its ears effectively.
How do I clean my dog’s ears?
Introduce your dog to ear cleaning slowly to keep the experience positive. Start by showing them the bottle of cleaning fluid and cotton balls. Praise and give them a treat for sniffing or showing interest in it. You can then progress to touching and holding their ears. Praise and reward your dog.
It can be helpful to have a second person available to help you when you start the actual ear cleaning. The second person can distract your pet with treats and rewards while you apply the cleaning fluid.
Aim the nozzle down and forward into the ear canal. Slowly flood the canal with the cleaning solution. Gently massage the ear canal, which feels like a tube of cartilage running straight down the side of the head below the opening. As you massage the ear canal you will loosen all the debris inside. If the ear canal is sore, your dog might not like the massaging at first so be as gentle as you can. If your dog is notably uncomfortable, you should speak to your veterinarian about pain relief options for them.
After massaging, wipe away the cleaning fluid that comes back up to the top with cotton wool. Never use cotton buds or poke anything into the ear canal – if you do you will only push debris further into the ear and may damage the ear drum. Repeat the whole procedure if necessary, until your cotton wool is coming out clean.
If your dog seems distressed at any point, stop. You should not forcefully restrain your pet as this could make them more scared and stressed next time. You can always try again a little later, remembering to praise and reward them.
What medication should I give my dog?
Once the ear canals are clean, you can apply any ear drop medications that have been prescribed by your veterinarian. Once the drops have been applied down the ear, you should gently massage the ear canal again to spread the drops over the entire surface of the canal.
Your veterinarian may also prescribe some tablets to help treat the ear disease. It is important to give all the tablets that your veterinarian has prescribed – even if you think your dog is getting better. This medication may be helping with inflammation or providing pain relief, so make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions.
How can I stop my dog getting ear disease?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to prevent ear disease coming back in some dogs. In fact if your dog has had one ear infection, it is highly likely that they will have repeated bouts. You should check your dog’s ears regularly and contact your veterinarian if the ears become red or sore looking. Regular ear cleaning can be helpful in removing debris and wax within the ear, but excessive cleaning may damage the inside of the ear. This could make infection more likely. Speak to your veterinarian if you are unsure whether your dog needs regular ear cleaning and how often.
Conclusion
Regular ear examination, and cleaning when necessary, can help to keep your dog’s ears healthy. If you have any concerns about your dog’s ears you should contact your veterinarian for further advice.
Further information
- Fear Free have produced a handy video that demonstrates lots of tips to help make ear cleaning fear free for your dog. Website: https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/video/fear-free-ear-cleaning/.