The Best Dog Ear Cleanser

If you’ve got a dog, you know those ears of theirs work overtime. Toddlers can use them as horsey reins and yet they’ll still perk up at the sound of steps on the front porch.

You can imagine what it feels like when those sensitive ears get infected, irritated with parasites or clogged up with dirt. Most likely, your pup will let you know exactly how it feels when that happens. Constant scratching or a shaking head can be signs of a bacterial infection, and an odor or dark discharge can signal a yeast infection or infestation by ear mites.

Whether they’re already at that sad stage or you want to prevent it from happening, regular applications of a good dog ear cleanser can help.

There are a wide variety of cleansers on the market, made with a range of ingredients. Some are best suited to tackle bacterial infections, while others are meant to soothe inflammation or remove fungus. If you’re using them as a preventative measure, it’s best to get a broad-based cleanser with a lighter formula that’s less likely to cause discomfort. If you’re treating a specific problem, it’s always best to consult with your vet, who will likely have some recommendations.

Most dog ear cleansers will come in a tube or bottle, either as a liquid solution or some type or cream or foam. These will likely save you some money since a few drops is all you may need for each application. Some can also be used externally for other inflamed areas. On the other hand, not every dog takes well to having liquid squirted in their ear.

In that case, there are cleansing wipes available. You’ll need to do some work getting into those ears, but make sure not to push too hard with these. You don’t want to exacerbate your dog’s problem by pushing any dirt or debris further into the ear canal.

No matter what, you’ll want to avoid using any cleanser with an alcohol base. That will irritate your dog’s ear no matter what the underlying problem, and make them less amenable to future cleanings. Likewise for “home remedies” like hydrogen peroxide. These work fine for cuts on humans but will sting a dog’s sensitive ears.

Once you’ve chosen a cleanser, how do you go about cleaning your dog’s ears? Depending on how bad their ears are, you may want to do set up for the process outside, or in the bathroom. If you’re using a liquid, apply the recommended dosage and don’t be shy about using treats if your pup is skittish about the process. Massage the ears gently for awhile so that the solution can loosen any debris. Feel free to go in with some gauze or a cleansing wipe no further than a knuckle, and carefully clean any loose material out. Your dog will probably want to have a good shake afterward, and that can help. Just make sure you stand clear, or protect yourself with a towel!

If you’re cleaning as a preventative measure, once a month is standard, but different breeds (especially those with long ears) may need more care. Consult with your veterinarian about your pet’s specific needs.