How to Clean Dogs’ Ears and Care for an Ear Infection

Your dog’s ears are the perfect environment for trapped debris, moisture, and buildup, which can quickly turn into irritation or infection if left unchecked. With a simple ear care routine, you can keep your dog’s ears clean, comfortable, and healthy.

Why Ear Care Matters for Dogs

A dog’s ear canal isn’t straight like ours. It has an L-shape, which makes it easy for dirt, wax, and moisture to get stuck deep inside. Without regular maintenance, that buildup can lead to itching, odor, and eventually infection.

Cleaning your dog’s ears helps remove debris, bacteria, and yeast before they cause problems. It’s especially important if your dog is prone to ear issues, has allergies, or has floppy ears that trap moisture more easily.

If your dog already has an infection, cleaning becomes even more important. Debris in the ear can block medication from reaching the affected area, making treatment less effective and increasing the risk of the infection returning.

How to Clean Dogs’ Ears

Cleaning your dog’s ears at home is easier than it sounds—and it can even become a positive experience with the right approach.

What You’ll Need

• A gentle ear cleaning solution (avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide)

• Cotton balls or gauze

• A towel (optional, but helpful)

• Treats for rewards

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by getting your dog comfortable. For smaller dogs, this might mean sitting in your lap, while larger dogs may sit beside you.

2. Gently lift the ear flap to expose the ear canal. Apply the cleaning solution into the ear. Use enough to fill the canal.

3. Next, massage the base of the ear for about 20–30 seconds. You may hear a squishing sound, which means the solution is working its way through debris inside the ear.

4. Once you stop, your dog will likely shake their head (this is a good thing, it helps loosen buildup). Afterward, use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe away debris from the visible parts of the ear.

5. Only clean as far as your finger can comfortably reach, no deeper. Then reward your dog with a treat to keep the experience positive.

Signs Your Dog May Have an Ear Infection

Catching an ear infection early can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for:

• Redness inside the ear

• Scratching or pawing at the ears

• Frequent head shaking

• A strong or unusual odor

• Discharge or excessive wax

• Sensitivity when you touch the ear

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to check in with your veterinarian. Some symptoms can overlap with allergies, so getting a proper diagnosis matters.

How to Care for a Dog’s Ear Infection

If your dog has an ear infection, cleaning is crucial to healing.

Treatment Basics

Cleaning the ear helps clear out the extra debris or discharge produced by the infection so treatment can reach deeper into the canal. It also reduces the chance of leftover debris causing the infection to return after treatment.

Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions when treating an ear infection. In most cases, you’ll clean the ears first and then apply any prescribed medication.

Some situations may require a short delay before cleaning—especially if the ears are very inflamed or painful. Your vet can guide you on timing and technique.

Choosing the Right Ear Cleaner

Not all ear cleaners are the same. Some are designed to target bacteria or yeast, while others help break down wax.

Avoid harsh ingredients that can irritate the ear, especially if it’s already inflamed. When your dog has an infection, your veterinarian is the best resource for choosing the right product.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?

There’s no one correct answer here. It depends on your dog’s needs.

Dogs prone to infections, allergies, or with floppy ears may need more frequent cleaning. If your dog is being treated for an infection, your vet may recommend cleaning more often at first.

Healthy ears don’t need constant cleaning. Overdoing it can cause irritation, which can actually lead to problems. A good rule of thumb: clean when you notice dirt, buildup, or after activities like swimming or bathing.

Do All Dogs Need Their Ears Cleaned?

Not necessarily. Some dogs naturally have clean, healthy ears and may rarely need cleaning. Dogs prone to buildup or infections benefit from a regular routine.

The key is to check your dog’s ears regularly. If you notice odor, discharge, or visible debris, it’s time for a cleaning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, a few common mistakes can make ear care less effective:

• Using cotton swabs

• Cleaning too frequently

• Ignoring early signs of infection

• Using harsh or inappropriate cleaning solutions

• Skipping cleaning before applying medication

Avoiding these can make a big difference in your dog’s ear health.

Keeping Your Dog’s Ears Healthy

Taking care of your dog’s ears doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple routine, regular checks, and knowing what to look for can go a long way in preventing discomfort and infections.

If your dog struggles with recurring ear issues, it’s also worth looking beyond just cleaning. Diet can play a bigger role than many pet parents realize. Foods high in fillers and carbohydrates can contribute to inflammation and yeast overgrowth, which are two common factors behind chronic ear infections. Feeding a fresh, minimally processed diet with fewer carbs, like Steve’s Real Food, can help support a healthier balance in the body, which may reduce the frequency of flare-ups over time.

Ready to try raw? Find a store near you or shop Steve’s Real Food online.