The frequency of cleaning your dog's ears depends on several factors including whether the ears are healthy, if the dog has a history of ear infections or allergies, and the dog's lifestyle (e.g., swimming, playing in dirt).
- For dogs with healthy ears and no history of ear problems, routine cleaning is generally only needed if there is visible dirt or wax buildup, or if the ears get wet after swimming or bathing. In such cases, cleaning every 1 to 2 weeks is usually sufficient
- Some sources suggest that for healthy ears, cleaning once every 1 to 2 months is enough, with regular inspections weekly to check for any signs of problems
- Dogs with floppy ears, allergies, or recurrent ear infections may require more frequent cleaning, sometimes as often as once a week or even daily during treatment of an infection
- Overcleaning can cause irritation or disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the ear, potentially leading to infections, so it’s important not to clean too often unless advised by a veterinarian
- The best approach is to regularly inspect your dog’s ears for signs of wax buildup, odor, redness, or discharge and clean as needed. If unsure, consult your vet for a cleaning schedule tailored to your dog’s specific needs
In summary:
- Healthy ears: clean only when visibly dirty or after swimming, about every 1-2 weeks or up to once every 1-2 months.
- Dogs prone to infections or with floppy ears: clean weekly or as advised by a vet.
- During ear infection treatment: daily cleaning may be required under veterinary guidance.
- Avoid excessive cleaning to prevent irritation.
Regular ear checks and cleaning based on need rather than a fixed schedule is recommended for optimal ear health.
