Ear care is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. Sometimes, it is easy to overlook, but when the ears get dirty or irritated, they can quickly become a bigger problem. Knowing when to clean your dog’s ears—and when to leave them alone—can help prevent infections and keep those ears feeling good.
Just like us, your dog’s ears can build up wax and other debris. Dogs can also develop ear infections and even ear mites. When your dog’s ears are gunky, they need to be cleaned to prevent more serious problems and to help ear medications work properly.
But ear cleaning is not something to do “just because.” In fact, William H. Miller, DVM, director of the Companion Animal Center at Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine, warns, “If your dog’s ears aren’t gunky, don’t clean them! Over-cleaning can cause ear disease.”
So, when should you clean them? If your dog’s ears need attention, you may notice them scratching at their ears more often or see that the skin inside the ear looks red and irritated. A good ear cleaning can help ease the discomfort, but remember that treating the cause of the infection is the key to long-term relief.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your dog’s ears is all about balance. If the ears look healthy and clean, it is best to leave them alone. But if you notice signs of irritation, regular cleaning can make a big difference. When in doubt, always check with your vet to find the best care plan for your furkid’s ears.