caring for dogs

How to Prevent Ear Disease

The best way to prevent ear problems is to keep the ears clean. Regular weekly cleanings should prevent buildup, but if significant debris has already accumulated, ears may need to be cleaned more often at first. A small amount of wax isn’t a problem, but if the ears look abnormal, smell bad or seem to hurt, veterinary attention should be sought immediately. Clipping excess hair around the ears may also help, because this allows more air to reach the ear.

Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
A dog’s ears are very delicate, and cleaning should be done carefully to prevent damage. Start by filling the ear canal with ear cleaner, preferably one that is slightly acidic. To loosen any debris that has built up, rub near the base of the ear for approximately 30 seconds. Then take a cotton ball, paper towel or piece of gauze and clean out the inside of the ear. This may need to be repeated several times until all of the buildup is removed. A cotton swab can be used to clean the outer part of the ear, but should not be used in the ear canal. Cotton swabs can push buildup farther down in the ear if used in the canal, and could even rupture the ear drum if inserted too far or if the dog moves while the swab is being used. To be safe, clean only the parts of the ear that are visible.
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