Many dogs are not exactly thrilled about having their ears cleaned. Some wriggle, wrestle, paw, duck and dodge the moment they realise what is happening. But with the right approach, cleaning your dog’s ears can become a much calmer and easier part of their regular care routine.
In the video below, Dr Mark Perissinotto and his pup Abby show a simple and effective way to clean your dog’s ears at home.
Why Ear Cleaning Matters
Keeping your dog’s ears clean can help support everyday ear health and comfort. Dirt, wax and moisture can build up inside the ear, especially in dogs with floppy ears, hairy ears, allergies or a love of swimming. Regular checks can help you spot changes early and keep your dog feeling more comfortable.
Ear cleaning is especially useful for dogs that are prone to waxy ears or spend a lot of time outdoors. You can also browse dog ear and eye care products if you need everyday ear cleaning support.
Get Everything Ready First
Before you start, make sure you have everything within reach. You may need a dog ear cleaner, cotton pads or gauze, and a few treats to reward your dog. Try to choose a quiet space where your dog feels settled, and avoid starting when they are already excited or worked up.
Having everything ready helps keep the process quick and calm. The less fuss you make, the less worried your dog is likely to feel.
Keep Your Dog Comfortable
The goal is to make ear cleaning feel as normal and stress-free as possible. Speak calmly, move gently and reward your dog throughout the process. If your dog is nervous, start slowly by touching around their ears and giving treats before you introduce the cleaner.
For dogs that really dislike ear handling, short practice sessions can help. You do not need to clean both ears perfectly the first time. Building trust is part of the process.
Use the Ear Cleaner Correctly
Follow the directions on your chosen ear cleaning product. In most cases, the cleaner is applied into the ear canal, then the base of the ear is gently massaged to help loosen wax and debris. Your dog may shake their head afterwards, which is a normal part of the process.
After your dog has shaken, use a cotton pad or gauze to wipe away loosened wax and cleaner from the outer ear. Avoid pushing anything deep into the ear canal, as this can cause irritation or injury.
Do Not Use Cotton Buds Deep in the Ear
Cotton buds can push wax and debris further into the ear canal if used incorrectly. They can also make it easier to accidentally hurt your dog’s ear. It is safer to wipe the visible areas of the ear with a cotton pad or gauze and let the ear cleaner do the deeper work.
Know When to Call Your Vet
Ear cleaning can help with general maintenance, but it is not a replacement for veterinary care if something seems wrong. If your dog’s ears are very red, swollen, painful, smelly, itchy or producing unusual discharge, speak with your vet before cleaning them.
You should also check with your vet if your dog is shaking their head a lot, scratching at their ears or seems sensitive when you touch them. These signs can point to an infection, allergy or other ear issue that may need treatment.
Make Ear Cleaning Part of Your Routine
How often your dog needs their ears cleaned depends on their breed, lifestyle and ear health. Some dogs only need occasional cleaning, while others may need more regular attention. Dogs that swim often, have floppy ears or are prone to wax build-up may need closer monitoring.
A quick ear check during grooming can help you stay on top of changes. You can also explore dog grooming products to support your dog’s regular care routine.
Summary
Cleaning your dog’s ears does not have to be a battle. With a calm approach, the right ear cleaner and plenty of patience, you can help your dog feel more comfortable with regular ear care. Keep the process gentle, avoid putting anything deep into the ear canal, and speak with your vet if you notice redness, pain, odour or discharge.
For everyday support, browse VetShopAustralia’s range of dog ear and eye care products and dog grooming essentials.