How to clean your dog's ears safely

Healthy ears usually look after themselves, so many dogs never need their ears cleaned. But some dogs, especially those with very waxy ears or a history of ear infections, benefit from cleaning when their vet advises it. Here is how to do it safely.

Does my dog need their ears cleaned?

PDSA advises that most dogs don't need their ears cleaned regularly, and that unless you notice a problem it is best to leave them alone. Dogs Trust adds that cleaning when there is no need can actually create problems. Dogs that may need regular cleaning include those with:

• very waxy or dirty ears
• repeated ear infections
• an ear condition your vet is treating

Breeds with long, floppy or hairy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds and Poodles, can be more prone to ear problems. Ask your vet how often, if at all, your dog's ears need cleaning.

Check your dog's ears first

Look inside both ears in good light. A small amount of light brown wax is normal. Contact your vet before cleaning if you notice:

• redness or swelling
• a strong or unpleasant smell
• lots of dark brown wax, yellow discharge or pus
• pain when you touch the ear
• head shaking, scratching at the ears or tilting the head

These can be signs of an ear infection or ear mites, which need treatment. Cleaning an infected ear can be painful, and some cleaners can make things worse if the eardrum is damaged.

What you need

• a dog ear cleaner, ideally one your vet recommends
• cotton wool or cotton pads (not cotton buds)
• gloves, if you like
• a towel
• plenty of your dog's favourite treats
• a helper to hold and reassure your dog, if possible

Don't use household products, such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or oils. Ear cleaners vary, so use one suited to your dog.

How to clean your dog's ears: step by step

1. Choose a calm moment and a quiet room. Give your dog a treat and let them sniff the bottle.
2. Gently lift the ear flap and place the nozzle of the cleaner at the entrance to the ear canal. Don't push it in deeply.
3. Squeeze in some cleaner. One good squeeze is usually enough.
4. Put the bottle down and gently massage the base of the ear for a few seconds. You may hear a squelching sound, which helps loosen wax and dirt.
5. Step back and let your dog shake their head. Hold up a towel, as the liquid can fly.
6. Wrap cotton wool around your finger and gently wipe away wax and excess cleaner from the outer part of the ear and the entrance to the canal. Only wipe what you can see. Don't push your finger into the canal.
7. Repeat on the other ear with fresh cotton wool.
8. Reward your dog with treats and praise, so ear cleaning becomes a positive experience.

Why you should never use cotton buds

Cotton buds can push wax and dirt deeper into the ear. If pushed in too far, they can damage the eardrum. A dog's ear canal bends, so you can't see how deep you are going.

When to call your vet

Call your vet if your dog won't let you clean their ears, if the ears get worse after cleaning, or if you notice any signs of infection. Ear problems are painful and usually need prescription treatment.

Keeping ears healthy

• Dry your dog's ears gently after swimming or bathing.
• Ask your groomer or vet about managing excess hair in or around the ears.
• Treat skin allergies with your vet's help, as they are a common cause of repeated ear problems.
• Check your dog's ears regularly, so you notice changes early.