How To Clean Your Dog's Ears: Step-by-Step Guide for Pet Parents

Updated Nov. 29, 2023
pet parent cleaning a dog's ears

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Cleaning your dog’s ears is an important part of their overall health and can help prevent infections and other ear problems.

However, ear cleaning can be challenging—especially if you’ve never done it before.

Your veterinarian can recommend how often your dog’s ears should be cleaned based on their breed, lifestyle, and health. In some cases, more frequent cleaning may be needed if your dog develops an ear infection.

Because proper ear care is essential when caring for your beloved pup, it’s important to clean your dog’s ears correctly to avoid injury or irritation.

Download PetMD's step-by-step guide on dog ear cleaning: How To Clean Your Dog's Ears. A Spanish version of the guide is also available.

Key Takeaways

  • Cleaning your dog’s ears is an important part of their grooming and health routine.
  • Always use vet-approved ear cleaners and avoid harmful substances like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
  • Proper technique—gentle handling, flushing, and wiping—helps prevent injury.
  • If you notice signs of infection such as redness or odor, stop cleaning and contact your vet.

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What Dog Ear Cleaner Should I Use?

Always use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner specifically formulated for dogs.

Using the wrong products can irritate your dog’s ears or cause damage.

When cleaning your dog’s ears, use the following items: 

What To Avoid

Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or essential oils to clean your dog’s ears. These substances can irritate the ear canal and may increase the risk of infection or injury.

You should also never use cotton swabs inside your dog’s ears. They can push wax deeper into the ear canal and even damage the eardrum.

How To Clean Your Dog’s Ears

Cleaning your dog’s ears safely requires preparation, gentle handling, and the right technique.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Before you begin, have everything within reach:

  • Vet-approved ear cleaner
  • Cotton balls or wipes
  • Towel (optional, for cleanup)

Step 2: Position and Support Your Dog

If your dog is not used to ear cleaning, ask someone to help hold them.

Gently place an arm around your dog’s neck to prevent sudden movement. Use your other hand to stabilize their head or body.

Step 3: Choose the Right Location

Ear cleaning can be messy, especially at first.

Until you know how much your dog will fight or wiggle, clean your dog’s ears outdoors or in an easy-to-clean area. If needed, use a towel to keep the rest of their body clean. 

Step 4: Handle the Ear Gently

Carefully hold the outer ear (pinna), which includes skin, cartilage, and blood vessels. This allows safe access to the ear canal.

Step 5: Apply Ear Cleaner

Fill the ear canal with your vet-approved cleaner. ensuring the solution reaches both the horizontal and vertical canal. Gently massage the base of the ear, moving upward to distribute the cleaner.

Step 6: Let Your Dog Shake

Allow your dog to shake their head. This helps remove loosened wax and debris naturally.

Step 7: Wipe the Ear

Use a clean cotton ball to wipe the visible portion of the ear canal. Do not insert anything deep into the ear, as this can cause injury.

Repeat the flushing and wiping process until the cotton ball comes away clean and no visible debris remains. If there is significant buildup, you may need to repeat this process three to four times. 

How Often Should I Clean My Dog's Ears?

There is no one-size-fits-all schedule for cleaning your dog’s ears.

Instead of following a strict routine, ear cleaning should be based on your dog’s individual needs. A good rule of thumb is to clean your dog’s ears when you notice a buildup of wax or debris.

Some dogs benefit from routine ear cleaning, including those who:

  • Swim or bathe frequently
  • Have long, floppy, or hairy ears
  • Have a lot of ear wax
  • Play in dirt or outdoor environments
  • Have allergies or a history of ear infections

Regular cleaning can help prevent infections or reduce how often they occur.

How Often Should I Check My Dog’s Ears?

Even if your dog doesn’t need frequent cleaning, it’s important to check their ears about once a month.

Bath time provides a great opportunity to inspect your dog’s ears. You can also peek at them when you’re brushing your dog, or trimming their nails

Your groomer may also check your dog’s ears during routine visits.

When Not To Clean Your Dog’s Ears

In some cases, ear cleaning at home may not be recommended.

Avoid cleaning your dog’s ears if they have:

  • A damaged eardrum
  • An inflamed or painful ear canal
  • Ear trauma or active infection

These dogs may require professional cleaning by a veterinarian to prevent further injury. This service can also be useful if you aren’t comfortable cleaning your dog’s ears at home.

When To Call Your Vet

Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog shows signs of an ear problem.

Signs that may indicate an ear infection or other issue include:

If you notice any of these symptoms, do not attempt to clean your dog’s ears, as this could worsen the condition.

Ear infections can range from mild to severe, and early treatment is important to prevent complications. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate treatment and provide guidance on follow-up care.

How To Clean Dogs' Ears FAQs

What is the safest way to clean a dog’s ears?

The safest way is to use a vet-approved ear cleaner, gently massage the ear, and wipe away debris with a cotton ball.

Never insert anything deep into the ear canal, and avoid using cotton swabs.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol to clean my dog’s ears?

No, you should not use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or essential oils.

These can irritate the ear canal and may cause damage or increase the risk of infection.

How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?

Signs of an ear infection include redness, odor, pain, excessive debris, and sensitivity.

If you notice these symptoms, do not clean the ears—contact your veterinarian immediately.

Why does my dog shake their head after ear cleaning?

Head shaking after ear cleaning is normal.

It helps your dog remove excess cleaner and loosened debris from the ear canal.


Joel DeJaynes, DVM

WRITTEN BY

Joel DeJaynes, DVM

Veterinarian

Hailing from the Hawkeye State, Joel DeJaynes always wanted to be a Cyclone. His early childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian came true...


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