Keeping your dog’s ears clean on a regular basis is a proactive approach to safeguarding against infections and potential complications. But before you learn about how to clean your dog’s ears at home, take a moment to ensure that your pet genuinely requires ear cleaning. Consistently checking her ears is a reliable method to make this determination. If you notice that her ears look pink, smell clean, and have no dirt, you can be sure that you don’t need to clean them. However, it’s important to be cautious about over-cleaning, as it could potentially cause irritation.
When your dog runs through the woods, walks on dusty paths, or swims, her ears can quickly become filled with water or dirt. In scenarios like this, it’s crucial to increase the frequency of ear cleaning. Pay heed and proceed to clean if you notice her scratching her ears, encountering watery discharge, or experiencing a mild odour. These practical home grooming tips for dogs contribute significantly to maintaining your furry friend’s overall well-being.
To clean your dog’s ears, first gently touch them to gauge her comfort level. If she seems relaxed, proceed with caution. Otherwise, stop and try again later. And, It’s best to clean her ears when she’s relaxed and avoid doing it right after she’s played or exercised. During the process, give her treats to associate it with positive experiences.
Steps to Clean your dog’s ears at home
- Firstly, steer clear of using cotton-tipped ear buds to clean your dog’s ears. These can push dirt deeper and harm if inserted too far.
- Always use a cleaning solution which has been prescribed by your vet and nothing meant for humans.
- Gently lift the ear and look for wax, watery discharge or smell. Excessive amounts, along with redness or swelling, may indicate a deeper issue requiring a vet’s attention.
- Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the ear entrance and remove dirt or wax buildup.
- Use a dropper or squeeze bottle to release the prescribed medicine into your dog’s ears gently.
- Massage the base of the dog’s ear to help cleaner reach the canal.
- As the medicine starts working and removes debris, your dog could start shaking. Carefully use a towel or cotton ball to clean the ear canal, ensuring you stay near the entrance and avoid going too deep.
