Ears
Ears are an extension of the skin and contain hair whose purpose is to block debris from entering into the canal. This hair can over-grow and may need to be thinned by plucking to prevent problems. The goal is not to remove all of the hair but to open up the canal enough to get good air flow deep in the canal but still leaving a hair barrier to debris. The ear also produces sebum which protects the ear from toxins and infections. If you get too aggressive in cleaning the ears, you can actually set the ear up for an infection.
When bathing do not put shampoo, conditioner or water directly inside the ear. Use a gentle cleanser on a cotton pad and gently pat the inside of the ear to clean without getting into the ear canal. Iv San Bernard’s ear cleaner contains eucalyptus oil which has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.
How a Healthy Ear Protects Itself
The ear canal is lined with skin, and like the rest of the skin it produces sebum and wax that trap debris and help protect against bacteria and yeast. Hair at the opening of the canal acts as a filter. Healthy ears need three things: a light hair barrier, good airflow, and an intact protective layer. Most ear problems start when one of these is thrown off balance.
Should You Pluck Dog Ear Hair?
Ear hair only needs attention when it overgrows and blocks airflow, which is common in breeds such as Poodles, Bichons, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Schnauzers and Doodles. The goal is never a completely bare canal.
- Thin the hair just enough to open the canal and let air circulate.
- Remove small amounts at a time, working gently, rather than clearing the canal.
- Leave a light hair barrier at the opening to keep out debris.
- Skip plucking if the ear is red, sore or has discharge, and have it examined first.
How to Clean Your Pet’s Ears Safely
- Clean only when needed. Over-cleaning strips the protective layer and can set the ear up for infection.
- Keep products out of the canal during bathing. Never pour shampoo, conditioner or water directly into the ear.
- Use a gentle cleanser on a cotton pad. Moisten the pad and gently wipe the visible parts of the ear flap and the opening.
- Never push anything into the canal. Cotton swabs can pack debris deeper and injure the ear.
- Dry the ears after bathing or swimming, since trapped moisture encourages yeast.
Iv San Bernard Ear Cleaner contains eucalyptus oil, which has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Find it with our other ear and eye care products.
Signs of an Ear Problem
- Head shaking or scratching at the ears
- Redness or swelling inside the ear flap
- Brown, yellow or black discharge
- A strong or yeasty odor
- Pain when the ear is touched, or a head tilt
Ear infections are often secondary to allergies or skin disease, much like skin infections. Read why some skin infections just won’t go away. If you see any of these signs, have a veterinarian examine the ear before cleaning or plucking, because an infected or damaged eardrum changes what is safe to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pluck my dog’s ear hair?
Only if the hair overgrows and blocks airflow. Thin it just enough to open the canal and leave a light barrier at the opening. Do not pluck ears that are red, sore or have discharge.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
Only as needed. Over-cleaning removes the protective sebum and wax and can lead to infection. Gently wipe the outer ear with a cleanser on a cotton pad when it looks dirty.
Can I put water or shampoo in my dog’s ears during a bath?
No. Keep water, shampoo and conditioner out of the ear canal, and dry the ears after bathing.
What are the signs of an ear infection in dogs?
Head shaking, scratching, redness, discharge, odor and pain when the ear is touched. A veterinarian should examine the ear.