Regular ear cleaning matters more for some dogs than others. Floppy-eared breeds and frequent swimmers tend to need it more often, since trapped moisture is what usually leads to trouble.
What you'll need
A vet-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls or gauze. Skip cotton swabs entirely, they push debris further in rather than removing it.
Steps
- Check the ear before doing anything
A healthy ear looks pale pink and doesn't smell strong. Redness, dark discharge, or a noticeable odor are signs to see a vet rather than clean at home.
- Fill the ear canal with cleaning solution
More than seems necessary, following the product's instructions. This loosens debris rather than just wiping the surface.
- Massage the base of the ear
About 20 to 30 seconds, which you'll usually hear as a squelching sound. That's the solution working through the canal.
- Let your dog shake
This brings loosened debris up and out on its own. Stand back a little, most dogs shake vigorously right after.
- Wipe the visible part of the ear with cotton
Just the outer ear and the part of the canal you can see. Never insert anything into the canal itself.
Frequently asked questions
How often should this happen?
Once every two to four weeks for most dogs, more often for breeds prone to ear issues or dogs that swim regularly.
My dog's ears always smell a bit. Is that normal?
A faint, neutral smell can be normal, but a strong yeasty or foul odor usually points to an infection worth having a vet look at.