Introduction
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal of dogs. It protects the ears by trapping dirt, dust, and other debris before it reaches the inner ear. However, excessive ear wax buildup can lead to blockages and infections like otitis externa, causing inflammation, irritation, pain and hearing loss.
Recurring ear infections are often a sign of underlying allergies or chronic ear disease. Treatment involves removing excess wax and debris, treating any infections, and addressing the root cause. There are various tools available to owners to help remove mild buildup at home, but severe blockages may require flushing and professional cleaning under anesthesia.
This guide covers different methods and tools dog owners can use to gently remove excess ear wax and keep their dog’s ears clean and healthy.
Cotton Balls
Cotton balls are a popular and effective method for safely removing ear wax buildup at home. Some pros of using cotton balls for dog ear cleaning include:
- Cotton is soft, absorbent, and gentle on delicate ear tissue.
- The fibers grip and absorb wax without pushing it deeper into the ear canal.
- Cotton balls are inexpensive and readily available.
- They allow precise application of cleaning solution.
- Owners have control over amount of pressure applied.
Some cons to be aware of when using cotton balls for dog ear wax removal are:
- Cotton can leave behind fibers that are difficult to fully remove.
- The applicator tip of bulb syringes may be more effective at reaching deep crevices of the ear.
- Cotton balls don’t allow cleaning solution to flush through the canal like rinses.
- It may take more time as you have to hold the dog’s head still while cleaning.
- Not ideal for dogs with severe buildup, infections, or hematomas.
With patience and proper technique, cotton balls can be a simple go-to for keeping dog ears clean and healthy at home.
Ear Cleaning Solutions
Ear cleaning solutions can be an effective way to help remove wax buildup and debris from your dog’s ears. There are a variety of commercial ear cleaners available for purchase that contain ingredients designed to gently cleanse and dry your dog’s ears.
Some key ingredients to look for in ear cleaning solutions include:
– Salicylic Acid – This helps dissolve ear wax.
– Drying Agents – Look for alcohol, acetic acid, or propylene glycol to help remove moisture from the ears.
– Surfactants – Surfactants like docusate sodium help loosen and remove wax and debris.
– pH Balancers – The ideal pH for dog ears is around 5.5 to 6.5. Citric acid helps maintain the proper pH.
– Fragrance – Many solutions contain a pleasant fragrance to help mask odor.
Some popular commercial solutions include Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced, Vet Solutions Ear Cleansing Solution, and Zymox Otic Pet Ear Cleanser. Be sure to follow package directions closely when using any cleansing solution in your dog’s ears.
Bulb Syringes
Bulb syringes are rubber bulbs with a tip designed to spray water into the ear canal. They can be purchased at most pharmacies and allow you to flush the ear at home. Here’s how they work for ear wax removal:
How Bulb Syringes Work:
Fill the bulb with lukewarm water or a saline solution. Tilt your head and gently squeeze the bulb to irrigate the ear canal. This will flush out wax and debris. Point the tip toward the outer ear – never deeper inside. Repeat until water runs clear.
Pros:
- Easy to find and inexpensive
- Allows flushing at home
- Safer than cotton swabs for DIY ear cleaning
Cons:
- Can push wax deeper into ear canal if aimed too forcefully
- Doesn’t allow inspection of the eardrum
- May require multiple treatments to fully clear wax
Overall, bulb syringes are a relatively safe option for DIY ear wax removal if used gently and carefully. However, see a doctor if you have severe blockages, pain, discharge, or hearing loss.
Ear Wipes
Ear wipes are a convenient and easy way to gently clean your dog’s ears. They come pre-moistened with a cleaning solution that helps remove dirt, debris, and wax (Chewy). Different types of ear wipes are formulated for different needs:
– Allergy relief wipes contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera and eucalyptus to help with itchiness and irritation (Veterinarians.org).
– Medicated wipes contain antifungal and antibacterial agents to help prevent and treat infections.
– Hypoallergenic wipes are free from potential allergens and fragrances.
– Gentle wipes without alcohol or harsh chemicals are better for puppies and dogs with sensitive ears.
When choosing ear wipes, look for a reputable brand that avoids irritants. Talk to your vet if your dog has recurring ear issues. They can recommend the most suitable wipes and proper cleaning technique for your dog’s needs (BetterPet). Using the right ear wipes can help keep your dog’s ears clean and comfortable.
Ear Powders
Ear powders can be an effective way to help remove built-up ear wax in dogs. These powders work by absorbing and drying out excess ear wax to make it easier to remove.
Some common ingredients in ear powder formulations include boric acid, silica, zinc oxide, and kaolin clay. These help draw out moisture and debris from the ear canal. The powders have an abrasive texture that helps break up wax so it doesn’t stick to the skin.
To use an ear powder, first gently shake out any loose debris from the ear canal. Then use a cotton ball to apply a small amount of powder directly into the ear, massaging the base of the ear to distribute it down into the canal. Let your dog shake their head to further distribute the powder.
After a few minutes, you can use a cotton ball to gently wipe out any loosened wax and powder. It’s important not to reuse cotton balls or push any debris further into the canal. You may need to apply the powder 2-3 times over several days to fully clear out stubborn buildup.
Ear powders should not be painful for your dog when used properly. Stop immediately if they show signs of discomfort. Never use powders if there are open wounds in the ear canal. And be careful not to get powders in your dog’s eyes.
With regular use, ear powders can help prevent frequent wax buildup. But consult your vet if your dog has recurring issues, as medications may be needed to treat any underlying infection or inflammation.
Ear Flushing
Ear flushing is a process used to remove heavy buildup of wax and debris from a dog’s ears (source). It involves using a special ear flushing solution and gently rinsing the ear canal to wash away excess wax and dirt. Ear flushing should be done by a veterinarian, as improper flushing can damage the delicate structures of the ear.
Ear flushing is recommended when a dog has a heavy accumulation of wax that is blocking the ear canal. Signs this may be needed include head shaking, scratching at the ears, odor, discharge, swelling, or redness. Flushing helps remove debris to allow medication to reach infected tissue. It also enables a thorough exam of the ear canal.
The vet will sedate the dog and position them with the affected ear facing up. An ear flushing solution, often containing something like saline, chlorhexidine, or acetic acid, is flushed into the ear canal and massaged. This loosens up wax and debris, which is then flushed out using an irrigation device. Sedation prevents the dog from shaking their head during the process. Once complete, medication can be applied and the ears checked for any remaining problems.
While a useful tool for serious ear infections, regular flushing is not necessary for most dogs. Occasional cleaning with a vet-approved solution is usually sufficient. But for dogs prone to heavy wax buildup leading to infection, periodic flushes may be recommended. Overall, ear flushing is an effective way to remove blockages so other treatments can resolve the infection.
Home Remedies
Home remedies are popular, natural ways to clean dogs’ ears using common household ingredients. They can be an effective and inexpensive alternative to commercial ear cleaners, though some care should be taken with their use. Key home remedy ingredients include:
Vinegars – White vinegar or apple cider vinegar contain acetic acid, which helps kill bacteria and yeast while drying out the ear canal. For basic home cleaning, a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water is commonly used. Too high concentration of vinegar can irritate the ears.[1]
Oils – Essential oils like tea tree oil have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. However, oils should always be diluted before placing in the ear canal. Oils can help dissolve built-up wax.[2]
Witch hazel and aloe vera – Both can soothe irritated or inflamed ears. Their antibacterial and antifungal properties make them useful additions to cleaning solutions.
Coconut oil – Softens and helps loosen hardened ear wax for removal. Can moisturize dry ears. Should not be used if the ear is infected.
Before using any home remedy or solution in a dog’s ears, a patch test is recommended. Homemade ear cleaners should be administered carefully and avoided if the ear drum is ruptured.
[1] https://enduraflap.com/blogs/pet-doors/homemade-ear-cleaner
[2] https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/5-home-remedies-for-dog-ear-infections/
Professional Cleaning
In some cases, it may be necessary to take your dog to the vet for professional ear wax removal. This is advised if the wax buildup is severe and causing symptoms such as head shaking, scratching, redness, swelling, pain, or discharge from the ear. Signs of an ear infection alongside wax buildup also warrant a vet visit. The vet has specialized tools and training to fully clean the ear canal and remove stubborn impacted wax. They can also examine the ear under a microscope and treat any underlying infection.
Professional dog ear cleaning by a vet typically costs $50-$100 per ear depending on the extent of buildup. Some pet stores and groomers also offer cleaning services for $10-$50. Be wary of these low-cost options, as they may not have the proper expertise to identify infections. Your vet can best determine if the ears require a thorough deep cleaning or if a simple surface wipe is adequate. Always consult your vet first before attempting to clean severe wax plugs at home, as you can damage the ear canal.
According to the PetCo website, regular professional cleanings are recommended every 6-12 months for dogs prone to wax buildup. Your vet can advise the ideal frequency for your dog’s ears. More frequent cleanings may be needed for chronic conditions like allergies, yeast infections and hypothyroidism. Going to the vet as soon as you notice excessive wax prevents painful complications. Prompt treatment brings relief faster and limits the use of medication.
Prevention
There are several tips to help prevent excessive ear wax buildup in dogs:
Clean your dog’s ears regularly using a gentle ear cleaning solution. Be sure not to use cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal. Gently wipe around the outer ear with cotton balls soaked in cleaner. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on cleaning solutions. [1]
Keep your dog’s ears dry. After bathing or swimming, gently dry your dog’s ears with a soft towel or cotton ball. Remaining moisture can lead to infection and wax buildup.
Treat underlying conditions like allergies. Allergies are a major cause of ear infections and excess wax. Work with your vet to identify and manage any allergies your dog may have. This could involve medications, changes in diet, and/or environmental control. [2]
Avoid irritants. Things like perfumes, chemicals, cigarette smoke, dust, and grass seeds can irritate your dog’s ears and worsen wax buildup. Limit exposure when possible.
Get regular veterinary checks. Your vet can examine your dog’s ears, remove excess wax if needed, and check for any underlying issues. Preventive care is key for healthy ears.
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/dog-discharge-ear
[2] https://wagwalking.com/wellness/how-to-prevent-your-dog-from-getting-excessive-earwax