How To Clean Your Dog's Ears Quickly and Efficiently

Keeping your dog’s ears clean is imperative for their overall health and comfort. Ear infections are a common issue for dogs, but the good news is that they are treatable. Regular ear cleaning is one of the best ways to prevent ear infections in dogs and keep your pup feeling happy and healthy.

Check your dog’s ears weekly for signs of buildup, odor, or irritation. A slight amount of waxy buildup is normal, but if your dog swims frequently or has a history of ear problems, cleaning their ears more routinely—about one to three times per week—may be necessary.

Once you make ear cleaning part of your routine, it becomes second nature. Think of it as another way to bond with your dog while reducing the chances of frequent trips to the vet!

And to help to avoid any ear infections for your dog.

Below are some recommendations to help get your dog’s ears cleaned quickly and efficiently:

Tips for Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

Use a Vet-Recommended Ear Cleaning Solution

Before you start, check with your vet to find the best ear cleanser for your dog. A good ear cleaner should be slightly acidic to balance the ear’s natural pH without causing irritation or stinging. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, as they can be harmful to your dog’s sensitive ears.

Make Ear Cleaning a Positive Experience

Help your dog associate ear cleaning with a positive experience. Start by gently touching and handling their ears during non-cleaning times to get them accustomed to the sensation. Have a stash of their favorite healthy treats or a beloved toy on hand to reward cooperation. Over time, this can turn ear cleaning into a tolerable—or even enjoyable—experience for your pup.

Gather the Right Ear-Cleaning Supplies

Cotton balls or gauze: Avoid cotton swabs, as they can push debris deeper into the ear canal and potentially cause injury.

Gloves (optional): You can wear gloves for hygiene, but clean hands work just as well.

Soft towel: Useful for wiping the ear flap and cleaning up after the process.

Vet-recommended ear cleaner: This will help ensure that it’s both safe and effective for your dog’s needs.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your Dog’s Ears

1. Apply the Cleaner:

Place your dog in a comfortable position where you can easily access their ears.

Gently lift the ear flap and place a few drops of the cleaning solution into the ear canal. Follow the product’s instructions for the correct amount.

2. Massage the Base of Your Dog’s Ears:

Using your fingers, massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds. This helps loosen debris and wax, making it easier to remove. Your dog will like this part!

3. Let Your Dog Shake It Out:

Allow your dog to shake their head to dislodge excess fluid and debris. You may want to do this in a designated area to avoid any outpouring or mess.

4. Wipe Away Debris:

Use a cotton ball, gauze, or a soft towel to gently wipe away the loosened debris and excess fluid. Repeat this step as needed until the ear appears clean.

5. Clean the Ear Flap and Visible Areas:

Use a cotton applicator swab only to clean the inside of the ear flap and the parts of the ear canal you can see. Avoid inserting the swab deep into the ear canal, as this can compact debris rather than remove it.

6. Reward Your Dog:

After cleaning, give your dog a treat or some playtime as a reward for their patience. Let them run around or take them outside for a nice walk.

Additional Tips to Consider:

Frequency of Cleaning: If your dog has an ear condition, you may need to clean their ears more frequently at first (up to twice daily). Adjust the routine as their condition improves and per your veterinarians advice.

Monitor for Signs of Problems:

With each ear cleaning, you and your dog will get used to the process and it will go by quickly. If your dog is showing severe discomfort, the ears have a bad smell, or the ear canals look very abnormal, take your dog to your vet immediately. Any of these symptoms can be indicative of an ear infection and should be treated as soon as possible.