While your pup might love to be brushed, your dog might not look forward to the ear cleaning process. However, this grooming practice is essential to their health. If it’s not a regular task in your house, use the following guide to learn how it’s done, and why it’s important.

Why Is Ear Cleaning Important?

Just like humans, it’s normal for wax to accumulate inside your pet’s ears. While some wax is essential for trapping hair and other contaminants before they can reach the inner ear, too much will result in a blockage, which can increase the risk of infection. Excess wax may also prevent your dog from hearing your commands, which is essential if they are oblivious to passing cars or other dangers. Ear cleaning also gives you a chance to take a closer look at your dog’s ears, so you can identify potential medical issues. For example, red, inflamed tissue, and a foul smell might indicate an ear mite infestation or an infection that will require antibiotics.

How Should You Do It?

If your dog’s ears don’t display any of the red flags above, start by using tweezers to remove any excess hair. Then, use an ear cleaner designed for dogs, and follow the instructions on the label. In most cases, you’ll need to pour a few drops into the ear canal and massage the outer ear. After about 30 seconds of massage, use a soft cotton ball or pad to clean out the dislodged wax around the edges of the ear. Avoid sticking anything inside the ear, as it may result in hearing damage. This is especially important if your pet is having trouble sitting still. Finally, let your dog know the job is done by giving them a few treats.

How Often Should You Clean Them?

If your pet has upright, short ears, it will be easy to keep an eye on them. Whenever they start to look or feel dirty, usually around once a month, you should clean them. However, Labradors and other floppy-eared dogs will require more frequent attention, as the enclosed outer ear facilitates more wax and oil buildup. To be safe, you should plan on cleaning their ears every two weeks.

If you’d rather not carry out this technique on your own, you can turn to a grooming company. The professionals at Evergreen Kennels are proud to offer these services to their clients in and around Churchville, NY. In addition to grooming, they also offer boarding for cats and dogs, with luxurious amenities like heated floors, night lights, relaxing music, and one-on-one playtime. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website. You can also call (585) 293-1920 to schedule a grooming appointment.