Should I clean my dog's ear if it's infected?
Lurline Osinski
2025-09-11 23:15:53
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No matter what breed your dog is, it’s a good idea to regularly check and clean their ears to prevent dirt from building up, which can lead to bacteria and infections. But sometimes treating a dog ear infection naturally at home can be just as effective, and it might even be quicker and easier depending on your dog’s symptoms. Once an infection takes hold, your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics to get rid of it. In some cases, if the infection is severe, your dog may even need to be put under anesthesia to have their ear thoroughly cleaned out. Ear infections can be super painful for your pup, so it’s a good idea to reach out to the vet. Of course, whether you go the natural route or not, keep in mind that it varies just how well home remedies work. Things like the type and severity of the infection, and your dog’s breed, can make a big difference in how effective your treatment is.
Glenna Romaguera
2025-09-03 10:00:02
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If your dog’s ears are red, inflamed, or painful, consult with your veterinarian prior to cleaning. Your dog may have an ear infection or a ruptured ear drum. Dogs who are prone to ear infections often benefit from more frequent ear cleanings. The structure of the dog’s ear canal makes it difficult for material trapped deep within the horizontal canal to be expelled without the assistance of cleanings. This material can lead to itchiness and ear infections if not removed. It is recommended to clean your dog’s ears if you notice discharge or an odor when examining the ear. Your veterinarian can help you decide how often your dog’s ears should be cleaned. If your dog has an ear infection and requires medication to be applied to the ears, clean the ears first and then apply the medication.
Henriette Mosciski
2025-08-31 12:08:06
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If the odor continues or is accompanied by other symptoms associated with an ear infection, don’t clean your dog's ear(s) on your own. This can decrease the efficacy of proper diagnosis in the veterinary office and can cause your dog more pain. Do not try to clean your dog’s ears at home before seeing your veterinarian. With certain types of bacteria, you may smell the ear from across the room. Dogs suffering from ear infections can have an underlying ear drum rupture and certain chemicals shouldn’t be used with this condition. Your veterinarian directed you to do so while treating an ear infection. Your dog’s ears should be cleaned with a solution specifically developed for this purpose. Do not use home recipes for ear cleaning that contain hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or alcohol, as they may irritate the ears or worsen an existing problem. Use caution and seek veterinary guidance for the best ear cleaners.
Antwan Parisian
2025-08-23 14:55:47
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You will need to clean your dog's ears first, and then apply the medicated drops approximately 15 minutes later. Dog ears are very sensitive so only ever use a dog-safe ear cleaner. Cleaning your dog's ears will help to remove some ear mites, but they will need medication to get rid of them completely.
Noelia Schamberger
2025-08-16 13:03:05
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Dog owners should never put anything in their dog’s ears if an infection is suspected and should get them to their veterinarian right away. If you notice any blood, excessive amounts of wax, or a foul odor, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this might be a sign of a dog ear infection. Those are signs of infection. The ASPCA details additional signs of ear infection. Ear infections are common in certain long-eared breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds. To avoid painful ear infections, follow these tips and tricks to ensure your dog’s ears remain clean and healthy. If you see excessive amounts of wax, smell a foul odor, blood is present, or your dog appears to be in pain from the cleaning, schedule a veterinarian visit.
Sydnee Stiedemann
2025-08-04 04:54:27
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Ear cleaning helps decrease debris, bacteria and yeast inside the ear. When a dog has an ear infection, excessive, abnormal debris is often present, making it difficult for the topical medications to reach the infection. Bacteria and yeast can easily hide inside layers of debris inside the ear canal and, if left behind after the treatment course has been completed, lead to reinfection of the ear. The ears are very sensitive, so make the experience more comfortable for your dog by being as gentle as possible and rewarding them with plenty of positive reinforcement, like their favorite treats. If your dog seems to be in pain during an ear cleaning, stop and consult with your veterinarian. Often, at-home ear cleanings for treating severe infections may be delayed for the first few days until the medication helps improve the pain and inflammation. The frequency of cleaning your dog’s ears will depend on whether it is for treatment of an infection, which could be up to daily to start. If your dog has an ear infection, your veterinarian can help you pick the most appropriate ear cleaner to help manage the infection.
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