Keep your dog’s ear health up to date without the hassle of a vet trip by checking out these top 10 ear cleaners for dogs. Not sure where to start when cleaning your dog’s ears? Most dogs don’t like to get their ears wet for starters, which is why all the tips about showering include a note to defer their ears to other products. So if you’re bathing your dog, be sure to keep their ear health as an after-bath special.
Why do dogs need their ears cleaned in the first place?
Maintaining proper ear health is beneficial to your dog to prevent bacterial infections, wax buildups, or for allergies which can cause yeast infections. If your pup’s ears are beginning to smell, it may be time for a cleaning. But also note that if your dog already has an active ear infection, ear cleaners won’t be of much help.
Another factor is your dog’s breed: dogs with floppy ears, like Sheepdog’s, Cocker Spaniels, or Miniature Poodles are prone to ear infections more so than other dogs, so it’s wise to keep on top of their ear health before things get out of hand. It’s very important to be careful when cleaning your dog’s ears, as they are extremely sensitive, (ever notice how your dog cowers from the rain?) and to take extra care when putting any kind of cloth in to wipe out ear wax.
Ceruminolytic, anti-fungal, and medicated ear cleaners can all help with your dog’s overall ear health. Most help specifically with keeping infections at bay and decreasing the buildup of wax that occurs in your pet’s ears.
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Check out our favorite dog ear cleaners below and start swabbing to keep your pooch healthy and happy.
1. Vibrac Epi-Optic Advanced Ear Cleaner
The Vibrac ear cleaner works best for dogs who have a constant buildup of excessive wax or who are prone to infections. Keep on top of your dog’s ear health with this neutral pH formula that keeps your dog’s ears from smelling. This solution cleans deep into the ear canal and removes excess wax buildup. If your dog hates ear treatments, this one may be for you. It’s a sensitive formula that works well with easily agitated dogs and can also be used on cats, which makes it a good buy for multi-pet households. The active ingredients in this formula are salicylic acid and disodium eta.
2. Zymox Otic Ear Solution with 1% Hydrocortisone
Zymox ear cleaner will soothe an ear infection, help clean out your dog’s ears from wax buildup, and give overall care for your pet’s ears. The hydrocortisone will help with itch relief while the rest of the ear care will help with inflammation. If your dog suffers from excessive wax buildup or smelly ears, it’s best to get those floppy pups checked out and cared for because there might be an infection lurking.
3. Vet’s Best Dog Ear Cleaner Kit
This wash and dry cleaner kit is a coordinated effort to keep your dog’s ears nice and tidy. Avoid wax buildup and infection by cleaning their ears consistently and with Vet’s Best dog ear cleaner kit. It soothes raw, itchy, and dry ears and extends the time in between your dog’s next ear cleaning. The formula contains natural ingredients, so don’t worry about what you’re cleaning your dog’s ears with: it’s an all-natural combination of chamomile, tea tree oil, clove oil, and aloe vera. Treat your dog’s ears to something nice with Vet’s Best.
4. VetWELL Ear Cleaner
This otic wash is great for keeping infections at bay, plus it smells great. If you dislike the smell of harsh chemicals and don’t jive with them being all over your dog’s silky ears, then try the VetWELL ear cleaner for something new. With scents like cucumber melon and sweet pea vanilla, how could you go wrong? Made from aloe vera and okay for daily use, this ear cleaner helps with wax buildup, dirt and debris, and stops itching at its root.
5. Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution
This dog ear cleaner has been specifically designed to soothe, cleanse and deodorize the exterior ear canal. The alcohol and lactic acid help dry and acidify the ear canal while the aloe softens the skin. Routine use helps in the prevention of ear infections and helps soothe dogs of smelly and itchy ears. This ear cleaner is gentle enough to use whenever you’re bathing or grooming your pet.
6. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care
This alcohol-free formula is great for pet owners who wish to use a dog ear cleaner on their dog on a daily basis, as it is gentle and soothes itchy ears. These therapy drops can be effective in relieving ear infections and fungus. It also deodorizes, cleans, and relieves the ears. This is an excellent product for dogs and pets over the age of 12 weeks.
7. Pet MD Ear Wipes
If you’re not looking for an ear drop, the Pet MD wipes may be the best buy for you and your dog. Made from aloe vera and eucalyptus, these gentle wipes are excellent at ridding your dog’s ears of dirt, wax buildup, and other discharges that may cause odor and infections. Gently clean your dog’s ears by cleaning the accessible part of the ear with the wipe, being careful not to go too far down the ear canal. Keep your dog clean and happy with Pet MD ear wipes and leave them smelling good too.
8. Burt’s Bees Care +
The Burt’s Bees Care + relieving dog ear cleaner is great for dogs with strange odors, itchy ears, or discharge. These easy-to-use drops go directly into the ear canal for a cleansing, soothing rinse that will take care of any bubbling infections on the rise. The formula is generated from chamomile and rosemary, a naturally nourishing power that will provide lasting relief to your furry friend.