Healthy Ears, Happy Dog: Tips for Preventing Ear Infections
Proactive prevention is less stressful and less expensive than treating established infections. Here's how you can help keep your dog's ears healthy.
Routine Ear Care & Monitoring
Check your dog's ears weekly for any signs of odor, redness, discharge, or sensitivity. Early detection is key.
When to Clean: Only if ears are dirty, waxy, or after swimming/bathing for predisposed dogs. Healthy ears often need minimal cleaning. Over-cleaning can cause irritation.
How to Clean: Use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner. Gently apply cleaner into the canal, massage the base of the ear, let the dog shake, then wipe away accessible debris from the pinna and canal opening with a cotton ball or gauze.
What to AVOID:
- Cotton swabs (can push debris deeper or damage eardrum).
- Alcohol or hydrogen peroxide (can irritate).
- Home remedies not approved by a vet.
Watch a veterinarian-approved video for proper ear cleaning techniques if available.
Video Placeholder: Proper Ear Cleaning
Key Prevention Strategies
If allergies are diagnosed, consistent long-term management (hypoallergenic diet, environmental control, prescribed allergy medications) is the most critical step. Ensure other health issues like hypothyroidism are well-managed.
Thoroughly dry ears with a towel after swimming or bathing. Consider using a vet-approved ear drying solution in dogs prone to moisture-related infections.
For dogs with hairy inner ear flaps or canals, discuss with a groomer or vet whether gentle plucking or trimming of excess hair is beneficial. Note: routine plucking is controversial and not always recommended; it depends on the individual dog and vet advice.
A balanced diet supports a healthy immune system and skin, which are foundational for good ear health.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Wellness exams at Beyond Pets Animal Hospital allow for early detection of potential ear issues or underlying problems before they become serious. Our team can provide tailored advice for your dog's specific needs.