How often should I clean my dog's ears?

Figuring out how often you should clean your dog's ears depends on their needs. The breed of dog, shape of the ear, and lifestyle indicate how frequently the care will need to be. My spaniel gets his ears cleaned every two weeks, while my neighbor's husky is fine with a once-a-month cleaning. Don't assume this is a "one size fits all" topic.

Breeds with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, require daily cleaning every 10 days. The ear flaps are effective moisture catchers, providing ideal conditions for an infection to develop. I keep a phone reminder so that the sessions for cleaning my basset hound do not lapse. Dogs with their ears erect, such as German shepherds, do not require cleaning unless they accumulate visible dirt.

Aquatic activities necessitate an immediate cleanup after any exposure. Swimming baths or any large rain supply can cause too much moisture and require drying solutions. I have a combination ear cleaner in my retriever's beach bag for the after-swimming exposure cleaning process. This will eliminate approximately ninety percent of ear infections caused by moisture if done correctly.

Over-cleaning may damage the ear's natural protective barrier. The normal, healthy wax will be stripped away, leading to inflammation and susceptibility to infection. I limit the number of cleanings to the appearance of dirt on account of wanting to maintain the natural defenses of my terrier's ears. Always consult your veterinarian about cleaning frequency before increasing it beyond the recommended amount.

Create consistent routines to accomplish these tasks by using positive reinforcement for cooperation. Pair the cleanings with high-value treats to associate them positively. My golden retriever offers up his ears readily, knowing chicken will follow. Regular maintenance will help stave off infections, keeping your dog comfortable in the long term.

Read the full article: Dog Ear Cleaning: Essential Steps & Tips