How to Prevent Dog Ear Problems

Learn dog ear care that can save you hundreds of dollars

coton de tulear cartoo

Dog ear problems are the number one reason for trips to the Vet. You can avoid the expense and the frustration just by following these simple suggestions.

Prevention is the key, but for dogs with floppy ears it can be a little more challenging. Puppies with long floppy ears like the Coton de Tulear can develop ear mite problems and infections if neglected.

When your dog starts scratching his ears, shaking his head, or dragging his head on the floor this is usually a clue that there’s a problem. An odor in the ears is also an indication of ear mites or infection and you should take your dog to the vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Dog ear infections are also a common indicator of dog skin allergies. Having a treatment plan for your pup's allergies can resolve ear infections as well as any other symptoms resulting from the allergies.

How can you prevent dog ear problems?

  • Pets need their ears cleaned just like people do so you should make that part of their normal grooming routine (whether you do it yourself or have a professional do it).

  • Clean the ears with a safe dog ear cleaner made especially for dogs.

  • How often you clean his ears will depend on many factors. If your dog has long ears, has a history of problems, is prone to allergies, or swims a lot you should check his ears weekly. Otherwise, once a month should be sufficient.

  • Keep any hair growing inside the ears trimmed.

  • Don’t use Q-tips. Use cotton or gauze to clean the ears.

Learning proper dog ear care is pretty easy and can prevent your dog from infections, pain and discomfort. It can be heartbreaking to watch your dog suffer needlessly. There's no need for suffering with dog ear problems.


Back to Dog Grooming Basics


Share your Coton de Tulear photos and Stories Here

Copyright© 2008- All Rights Reserved