Cleaning your dog’s ears is an essential part of their grooming routine, but Many dog owners are unsure about how to clean their dog’s ears properly. This can lead to potential problems like ear infections or irritation.
In this article, I’ll share my top tips on how to clean your dog’s ears at home, so you can keep them happy and healthy.
Understanding Your Dog’s Ear Anatomy
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the anatomy of a dog’s ear. A dog’s ear canal forms an “L” shape, with a 90-degree curve that can be difficult to reach.
The eardrum sits beyond this curve, so there’s a relatively low risk of harming your dog while cleaning their ears. However, it’s still essential to be gentle and use the right techniques to avoid causing any discomfort or damage.
Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears is Important
Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly is more than just a grooming task—it’s a critical part of their health care.
Here’s why ear cleaning should be a regular part of your dog’s care routine:
1. Prevent Ear Infections
Dogs with floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, or dogs that swim often are particularly prone to ear infections.
Floppy ears trap moisture, creating a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Cleaning your dog’s ears removes debris and excess moisture, helping to prevent these infections.
If left untreated, ear infections can cause significant discomfort and lead to more serious issues, including hearing loss.
2. Remove Wax and Dirt Build-Up
Dogs naturally produce earwax to protect their ear canal, but too much wax can block the ear and cause discomfort.
Dirt, debris, and hair can also accumulate in your dog’s ears, especially if they’re prone to playing outside or digging. Regular cleanings help to remove this build-up, keeping your dog’s ears clear and comfortable.
3. Early Detection of Health Problems
Routine ear cleanings give you the chance to inspect your dog’s ears for any early signs of problems.
Redness, swelling, foul odors, or unusual discharge can all be signs of an infection or other ear-related issues.
By catching these problems early, you can prevent more serious complications and get your dog the treatment they need quickly.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?
The frequency of ear cleaning depends on your dog’s breed, lifestyle, and susceptibility to ear issues.
- Dogs with floppy ears: Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Basset Hounds may need weekly ear cleanings. Their ears trap more moisture and debris, making them more prone to infections.
- Dogs with upright ears: Breeds like German Shepherds and Huskies, who have naturally upright ears, usually need ear cleanings less frequently, around every two to four weeks.
- Dogs who swim frequently: If your dog is a water lover, they may need ear cleanings after every swim to prevent moisture build-up and ear infections.
- Dogs prone to ear infections: If your dog has a history of ear problems, your vet may recommend a more frequent cleaning schedule, sometimes even multiple times per week.
Pro tip: Make it a habit to check your dog’s ears at least once a week.
Even if you don’t need to clean them every time, a quick inspection can help you catch any signs of problems early on.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Dog’s Ears at Home
Before you start, it’s essential to gather all the right tools.
Cleaning your dog’s ears doesn’t require a ton of supplies, but you want to make sure you’re using the right ones to avoid irritation or injury.
1. Dog-Specific Ear Cleaner
It’s crucial to use a solution designed specifically for dogs.
Human ear cleaning products or DIY solutions (like vinegar and water) can irritate your dog’s ears, throwing off the natural pH balance and leading to infections.
Your vet can recommend a good dog ear cleaner, or you can find one at any pet supply store.
2. Cotton Balls or Gauze
You’ll need cotton balls or gauze to wipe away any debris, wax, and excess cleaner from the outer ear.
Avoid using Q-tips—they can push dirt deeper into the ear canal and even damage the eardrum if inserted too far.
3. Towels
Things can get a bit messy, especially if your dog decides to shake their head after the cleaner is applied. Have a towel handy to catch any debris or ear cleaner that gets flung around.
4. Treats
Positive reinforcement goes a long way when cleaning your dog’s ears.
Keep some treats nearby to reward your dog for staying calm and cooperative. This helps make the experience more positive and reduces anxiety during future cleanings.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears at Home
Now that you have all your supplies ready, let’s walk through the cleaning process step by step.
Step 1: Set the Scene
Start by creating a calm environment for your dog.
You want them to be relaxed before you start, so find a quiet room, speak in soothing tones, and give them a few belly rubs or pats to set the mood.
If your dog is anxious about ear cleaning, try to ease them into it by handling their ears gently a few times before starting the actual cleaning. Over time, this helps desensitize them to having their ears touched.
Step 2: Inspect the Ears
Before applying the cleaner, take a moment to inspect your dog’s ears.
Look for any signs of redness, swelling, unusual discharge, or foul odors. These could be indicators of an ear infection, ear mites, or other ear problems that may need veterinary attention before you proceed.
If everything looks normal (a healthy ear should be pale pink with no strong odors), you’re ready to begin cleaning.
Step 3: Apply the Ear Cleaner
Now that your dog is relaxed and you’ve inspected their ears, it’s time to apply the cleaner.
- Gently lift your dog’s ear flap: Hold the ear flap up so you can see the ear canal clearly.
- Squeeze the ear cleaner into the ear: Follow the instructions on the bottle, usually filling the ear canal without overfilling.
- Hold the ear flap up for a few seconds: This keeps the cleaner from immediately spilling out and gives it time to work its way into the ear canal.
Tip: If your dog is resistant, you can break this step into smaller parts. For example, you can apply the cleaner to one ear, let them relax, and then repeat the process for the other ear.
Step 4: Massage the Ear Gently
Once the cleaner is in the ear, gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds.
You should hear a squishing sound—this means the cleaner is moving around inside, breaking up the wax and debris.
This step is not only crucial for cleaning but also enjoyable for many dogs, as it feels like a little ear massage.
Step 5: Let Your Dog Shake It Out
Most dogs will naturally want to shake their head after you’ve massaged the cleaner into their ears, and this is a good thing!
The shaking helps to loosen and expel any debris or excess cleaner from the ear canal. Be prepared—ear cleaner and debris can fly everywhere, so keep your towel handy to catch any mess.
Step 6: Wipe Away the Debris
After your dog has shaken their head, use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe away any debris, wax, or excess cleaner from the outer ear.
- Focus on the visible part of the ear flap and the opening of the ear canal.
- Be careful not to push the cotton ball too deep into the ear—just clean the areas you can see.
Step 7: Give Your Dog a Treat
As soon as you’re finished, reward your dog with plenty of praise and a treat.
This positive reinforcement helps your dog associate ear cleaning with something enjoyable, making them more cooperative during future cleanings.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
While cleaning your dog’s ears is straightforward, there are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure the process is safe and effective.
1. Don’t Use Cotton Swabs (Q-Tips)
It’s tempting to use Q-tips to reach deeper into the ear canal, but this is risky.
Cotton swabs can push debris further into the ear, potentially causing blockages or damaging the eardrum.
Stick to cotton balls or gauze for cleaning the outer part of the ear.
2. Avoid Using Water
Never use water to clean your dog’s ears.
Water can get trapped in the ear canal and lead to infections. Always use a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution designed specifically for dogs.
3. Don’t Over-Clean
Cleaning too often can irritate or even lead to infections.
For most dogs, weekly or bi-weekly cleaning is sufficient, but if your dog has ongoing ear problems, follow your vet’s advice.

Signs of Ear Infections in Dogs: What to Watch For
Even with regular ear cleaning, it’s important to know the signs of ear infections or other ear problems so you can act quickly.
Here’s what to look out for:
1. Unusual Odours
A healthy dog’s ears shouldn’t have a strong smell. If you notice a foul or yeasty odor coming from your dog’s ears, it could be a sign of an infection.
2. Redness and Swelling
Inflammation or redness in the ear canal or on the ear flap could indicate irritation or infection. If you notice swelling, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.
3. Excessive Scratching or Head Shaking
If your dog is constantly scratching at their ears or shaking their head, this is often a sign of discomfort.
It could be due to ear mites, an infection, or something stuck in the ear canal.
4. Discharge or Wax Build-Up
A little bit of wax is normal, but if you see dark brown, yellow, or green discharge, it’s time to get your dog’s ears checked by a vet. This could indicate an infection or ear mites.
5. Sensitivity or Pain
If your dog seems in pain or sensitive when you touch their ears, there may be an underlying issue.
They might whine, pull away, or even growl when you try to handle their ears. These are all signs that a trip to the vet is necessary.
Should You Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean Dog Ears?
No, you should not use hydrogen peroxide to clean your dog’s ears. While hydrogen peroxide can be effective in removing dirt and debris, it can also be harmful to your dog’s delicate ear canal. Plus, it can lead to irritation and inflammation.
Many veterinarians advise against using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or cotton swabs to clean dog ears. These substances can damage the ear canal and potentially cause infections.
Instead, you’d better use a veterinary-recommended ear-cleaning solution specifically formulated for dogs Look for products with drying agents like isopropyl alcohol, acetic acid, or salicylic acid to help prevent infections.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice?
If you notice any signs of infection—like excessive discharge, redness, or a foul odor—it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice immediately. Ear infections can be painful and may require medication to clear up effectively.
Your veterinarian can also advise you on how often to clean your dog’s ears. Plus, Some breeds may require more frequent cleanings than others.
Common Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify things further:
1. Can I use human ear cleaners?
No! Always use products specifically designed for dogs as human products may irritate their sensitive skin.
2. What if my dog doesn’t let me clean their ears?
Try getting them used to having their ears touched gradually before introducing cleaning solutions—patience is key!
3. Are there certain breeds that need more frequent ear cleanings?
Yes! Breeds with floppy ears like Basset Hounds or Cocker Spaniels tend to need more regular attention due to moisture retention in those types of ears.
4. How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
It depends on your dog’s breed, lifestyle, and ear health.
For most dogs, cleaning once a week or every two weeks is a good rule of thumb. However, dogs with floppy ears or those prone to infections may need more frequent cleanings.
Conclusion
Cleaning your dog’s ears is an important part of their grooming routine that shouldn’t be overlooked.
If you’re ever unsure about how to clean your dog’s ears or if they show signs of infection, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.
Now that you know how to clean a dog’s ears properly, make it part of your routine—your furry friend will thank you!