As a dog owner, there are many steps you can take to keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and properly groomed. Whether at home or a doggy daycare center, they’ll need to get their ears cleaned to prevent infections. If you’ve never done this for your pet before, you may be wondering how that works. To help you care for your pup’s health, here are some of the most common questions people have about cleaning dog ears.

Frequent Questions About Canine Ear Cleaning

Why do I need to clean their ears?

Your dog’s ears naturally build wax. If left unclean, this can lead to ear infections and bacteria growth that attracts ear mites. If your pet has buildup, they may also scratch their ears and cause irritation. By cleaning them, you reduce the likelihood of infections and keep your pup comfortable.

Do some dogs need more cleaning?

Yeast and bacteria growth is more likely to occur in active animals. For this reason, pets that swim, are always running around doggy daycare centers, or go on hikes with their owners should have their ears checked and cleaned every week. Senior or sedentary dogs may need this service only once a month.

What’s the best cleaning method?

Use an ear cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian. You’ll apply this product into the pup’s ear canal and massage the base to help the liquid penetrate the wax. Once applied, allow your dog to shake to remove excess solution. Follow up by rubbing a cotton ball along the interior of the ear to remove the softened buildup. Don’t go deep into the canal, which could hurt your pet.

How do I keep my dog calm as I clean?

Before starting the cleaning routine, practice by having your dog sit by you with the tools you’ll use. Next, touch their ear or flip it over to expose it, which will get them used to the process. Reward them for sitting still with treats. Repeat these steps a few times to get them comfortable before starting the procedure. Finish off with another treat, which will make ear cleanings something they look forward to.

Glacier K9 Resort and Spa in Kalispell, MT, is a full-service doggy daycare that also offers overnight dog boarding and training programs in a spa-like atmosphere. This luxury facility features 24 acres of land for roaming, climate-controlled suites, and special boarding packages that include services such as ear cleaning and agility work. Learn about their offerings online, or call (406) 755-3647 to book a doggy daycare visit.