As pet parents, taking care of the health of our furbabies is one of our top priorities. Whether you’re getting your pup to vet appointments or taking them to the groomers for a new do, maintaining good health and hygiene is essential in having a furry friend. Keeping your dog’s ears clean isn’t just about hygiene. It’s a critical aspect of their overall health. Some breeds are prone to dirtier ears than others. In this guide, we’ll break down a few ways to help keep Fido’s ears clean at home! Let’s jump right in.
The Importance of Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
Keeping your dog’s ears clean significantly prevents ear infections, especially in breeds with floppy ears or a lot of inner ear hair. However, cleaning too often can irritate. It’s best to check your pooch’s ears weekly. If you notice dirt, wax buildup, or a mild odor, it’s likely time to clean. If you see more severe symptoms like redness, swelling, or a strong smell in or around your dog’s ears, skip the home cleaning and contact your vet.
Ear cleaning can be uncomfortable at first, so patience is key. Offer plenty of praise to keep the experience relaxed, and if you’re dog is showing signs of discomfort, give them a moment to relax. Cleaning your dog’s ears at home is a great option, but some furry friends need a professional to handle it for them, and that’s okay, too!
Simple Steps for Cleaning Fido’s Ears at Home
Before starting, gather the essentials: a dog-safe ear cleaner(purchased or homemade), cotton balls, a towel, and some treats. Avoid using cotton swabs for this task because they can cause ear damage if misused. Choose a quiet, calm place where your dog feels safe and get to work.
- Inspect your dog’s ears for any signs of blockage or chronic infection.
- Apply the ear cleaner into your pup’s ear canal and gently massage the base of the ear. Avoid putting cleaner directly in their ear; stick to cleaning around the outer parts.
- Let your dog shake their head. Doing so removes any loose debris.
- Wipe your pup’s ear gently with the cotton ball or gauze. This ensures any leftover debris or cleaner is removed.
Take your time and offer your pup plenty of reassurance and treats. This will help create a positive experience for your pooch, making ear cleanings a piece of cake in the future!
Homemade Ear Cleaner for Dogs – CJ Puotinen
Check out these excellent instructions for creating a homemade ear cleanser for your pup by CJ Puotinen from Whole Dog Journal!
Rinse 1: Mix four tablespoons (2 fluid ounces or 1/4 cup) white or apple cider vinegar with the same amount of water, green tea, or aloe vera juice. Then add 1/2 teaspoon boric acid, five drops of isopropyl rubbing alcohol, and two drops of glycerin. Shake well to mix ingredients.
Rinse 2: Add 1/4 water to 1/4 cup vinegar, two tablespoons witch hazel, two tablespoons boric acid, and one tablespoon aloe vera gel. Shake well.
Rinse 3: Brew 1/2 cup of freshly brewed green tea and cool to room temperature. Use this rinse or add two tablespoons of boric acid and shake well.
Caring for your dog’s long ears is a small but vital part of their overall health and happiness. Regular ear cleanings can help prevent painful infections, reduce wax buildup, and keep your pup feeling their best. You can confidently manage ear care at home by following a simple routine, using dog-safe products, and staying alert for signs of irritation or infection. And remember, it’s perfectly okay to lean on professionals when needed; what matters most is your furry friend’s well-being. With patience and many treats, ear cleaning can become a positive, stress-free routine for you and your pup.