Did you know that most dogs don’t actually need their ears cleaned on a regular basis?

It's true: a healthy pair of dog ears has its own natural system for keeping clean, using wax and tiny hairs to trap dirt before it gets deeper. Unless something seems off, there’s no need to grab the cotton balls.

Overcleaning might seem like a good idea, but it can actually make things worse. Stripping away your dog’s natural ear defenses can irritate the skin, invite infections, and even throw off the ear’s healthy balance—turning what was a small issue into a bigger problem.

So let's get to the bottom of how to clean your dog's ears safely ... and how often you really need to do so.

Do Dogs Need Their Ears Cleaned?

Your dog’s ears are pretty amazing at taking care of themselves.

Wax and tiny hairs work together to catch dirt and debris, so you don’t have to do the cleaning job for them. It’s a well-oiled (or waxy!) system that’s designed to protect your pup’s ears naturally.

So, how do you know if your dog’s ears are doing just fine? Check for pink skin, no funky smells, and just a thin layer of wax—this is all completely normal.

If there’s no sign of discomfort or unusual buildup, your dog’s ears are good to go!

Signs Your Dog’s Ears Need Cleaning

Sometimes your dog’s ears will give you clear hints that they need a little extra attention. If your dog is shaking their head a lot, scratching at their ears, or if you notice redness, smelly discharge, or crusty buildup, it’s time to step in. These signs mean your pup’s ears might need some TLC.

While some symptoms, like a bit of wax, are easy to fix, others could point to something more serious. Redness, a bad smell, or constant itching might mean your dog is dealing with an infection or even ear mites. Catching these issues early can save your dog from discomfort—and a trip to the vet.

What Causes Ear Problems In Dogs?

Your dog’s ears can run into trouble for a variety of reasons, and recognizing the cause is key to treating it effectively.

Here are the most common ear health challenges dogs face:

• Yeast Overgrowth: Yeast naturally lives in your dog’s ears, but sometimes it gets out of hand, leading to itchy, irritated skin and a strong, musty odor. This imbalance can often result from moisture buildup, like after a bath or swim.
• Bacterial Infections: These are often marked by foul-smelling yellow or green discharge, redness, and swelling. Bacteria can multiply when the ears are too moist or if there’s debris stuck inside, making the infection worse over time.
• Ear Mites: Tiny but mighty pests, ear mites cause intense itching and irritation. You’ll know they’re around if you spot “coffee-ground” discharge—dark, crumbly debris—and redness inside the ear. Mites are also highly contagious, so it’s essential to act quickly to prevent them from spreading.

How To Clean Your Dog’s Ears Safely

Cleaning your dog’s ears isn’t complicated, but it’s important to do it right to avoid causing any discomfort or damage. Here’s a simple guide to follow:

• Gather Materials: Start with a soft clean cotton ball or cotton swabs, gauze, or a clean cloth. Skip the Q-tips (they can push debris deeper) and avoid baby wipes, which often contain chemicals that aren’t safe for dogs.
• Choose a Natural Cleaner: Opt for gentle, natural options like organic witch hazel or olive oil. These won’t disrupt your dog’s natural microbiome like harsh medicated solutions might.
• Start With the Ear Flap: Dab your chosen cleaner onto a cotton ball and wipe the outer ear flap thoroughly. Use a fresh cloth or cotton ball for each ear to prevent spreading debris or infection.
• Move to the Inner Ear Folds: Gently clean the visible folds of the ear, being careful not to go too deep. Never insert anything into the ear canal—it’s sensitive and can be easily damaged.
• Dry the Ears: Finish by patting the ears dry with a clean cloth. This step helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to infections.

By following these steps, you can keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy without disrupting her natural defenses.

Treating Infections at Home

When your dog’s ears are irritated or infected, natural remedies can often provide gentle, effective relief:

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): ACV helps restore the natural pH balance in your dog’s ears, creating an environment that’s hostile to yeast and bacteria. Mix 1 cup of lukewarm water with 2 tablespoons of organic ACV, then use a cotton ball to gently wipe the affected areas. Avoid this remedy if the ears are raw or severely irritated, as the acidity might sting.
• Calendula or Comfrey Lotions: Both calendula and comfrey are known for their soothing and healing properties. Dab a small amount of natural lotion onto a cotton ball and apply to inflamed areas. This can help reduce redness and promote faster recovery.
• Garlic Oil or Olive Oil: These oils are excellent for smothering mites and combating bacterial or fungal infections. Infuse olive oil with crushed garlic cloves overnight, strain, and apply a few drops to the ear. Repeat daily until symptoms subside, but avoid overuse to prevent greasy buildup.

While natural remedies work well for mild dog ear infections, severe or persistent issues need professional attention. If your dog shows signs like intense pain, swelling, or pus, or if symptoms don’t improve after a few days of treatment, it’s time to see the vet. Left untreated, serious infections can lead to hearing loss or other complications.

Preventing Ear Infection And Other Future Ear Issues

The best way to stop ear problems before they start is to make ear checks a routine part of grooming. Look for redness, unusual odors, or excessive wax buildup, and address minor concerns before they escalate. A quick weekly glance can save your dog a lot of discomfort if you catch ear infections before they develop.

A clean, balanced lifestyle goes a long way in keeping your dog’s ears healthy and protecting your dog's ear canal. Provide a nutritious diet that supports overall immune function, and avoid overbathing, which strips natural oils and invites irritation. Always dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after swimming or baths to prevent moisture buildup.

Skip harsh medicated ear solutions unless prescribed by a vet. These can disrupt the ear’s natural microbiome and make problems worse. Instead, stick to gentle, natural options and only clean when absolutely necessary—your dog’s ears will thank you!

FAQ

What can I use to clean my dog's ears at home? To clean dog ears safely at home, use a natural ear cleaning solution like organic witch hazel or olive oil. Gently wipe your dog’s ear flap and avoid inserting anything into the entire ear canal to prevent damage or irritation.

Should I clean the gunk out of my dog's ears? If your dog’s ear has visible gunk, a gentle cleaning with a soft cloth or cotton ball can help. Regular ear cleaning is only necessary when you notice signs of buildup, as overcleaning can disrupt the ear’s natural balance.

What do vets recommend for cleaning dogs' ears? Most vets recommend using a mild ear cleaner that won’t irritate the ear canal. Avoid frequent ear cleaning unless your dog’s ears regularly show signs of wax buildup or discomfort, as healthy ears typically don’t need much maintenance.

How do you get ear wax out of a dog's ear? To remove ear wax, apply a natural ear cleaning solution to a cotton ball and gently massage the area around your dog’s ear flap. Let your dog shake its head to naturally expel debris from the ear canal without forcing anything inside.