Unfortunately, ear infections are relatively common among dogs, causing discomfort and, if left untreated, hearing loss. Certain dog breeds may be more susceptible to ear infections than others due to their unique physical characteristics.

Dogs with long, pendulous (i.e., floppy) ears are often more prone to ear infections than other breeds. This is because their long ear flaps trap moisture and debris inside the ear canal, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. 

Some breeds are genetically predisposed to ear infections, simply based on their anatomy or genetic predisposition to developing seasonal allergies. If you have one of these breeds, it's important to take special care of their ears:

There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of ear infections in dogs, and one of them is having long fur around the ear flap. 

This type of fur can create a warm, moist environment that’s ideal for the growth of bacteria and fungi. Long fur can also make it more difficult to keep the area clean and free of debris and allergens that can cause ear infections. In certain breeds, hair can accumulate within the ear canal and block the opening of the ear canal. In this case, hair might need to be manually removed by a veterinarian or groomer. 

If your dog has long fur around their ear flaps, be sure to check the area regularly for any signs of infection–like redness, swelling, or discharge–and always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Dogs will be dogs. There’s no way to prevent them from playing outside or from getting wet during swim or bath time! That means it’s up to you to take precautions against ear infections, but don’t worry––it’s easy with the right routines and supplies! Here are some tips on how to keep your dog’s ears clean, dry, and healthy: 

Check for any redness, swelling, discharge, or unusual smells that are sickeningly sweet or musty. Your dog may also scratch the ears with their back paws and shake their head uncontrollably if an infection is present inside the ear. If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to the vet for an evaluation. 

After bathing your dog, use a cotton ball or Q-tip to wipe away any dirt or water that may have accumulated in their ears. You can also clean, dry, and deodorize ears after bath time with special-formulated drying ear wipes for dogs and cats. For an extra layer of protection, you can also purchase dog ear covers for bath time!

An ear flush can be useful for drawing out hard-to-reach (and hard-to-see) debris from inside the ear canal. They’ll usually include antiseptic and antibacterial ingredients to provide an even deeper clean and discourage microbial overgrowth. 

Start by squeezing the ear flush into the ear canal and gently, but firmly massage the base of the ear before wiping out the excess solution with a small towel or ear-cleaning wipe. 

This might seem obvious, but remember that some dogs are more sensitive than others when it comes to their ears! Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleansers and be careful not to get water in your dog’s ears when bathing them. If you notice your dog scratching at their ears, shaking their head excessively, or notice that their ears are red and inflamed, these could be signs that they're experiencing discomfort in the ear. 

Overgrown nails can make it difficult for your dog to clean their own ears properly–and can make bleeding more likely if your dog scratches themselves–which can lead to infection. Be sure to keep their nails trimmed regularly. Your veterinarian or groomer can help if your pet isn’t comfortable having this done at home! 

Nails should be trimmed about 2mm past the quick (the pink part inside each nail) or just long enough to be visible while your dog is standing.

While ear flushes are great for removing debris, dog ear drops stay inside the ear canal and contain ingredients with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ear drops with active ingredients have a more viscous texture that helps them coat and stay inside the ear canal. They often include medicated ingredients like hydrocortisone that can help target inflammation within the ear canal. 

As a pet parent, it's essential to keep an eye out for your furry friend's health. Unfortunately, ear infections are relatively common among dogs causing discomfort and, if left untreated, leading to hearing loss. With the right tips, supplies, and lifestyle habits–and by keeping an open line of communication with your veterinarian–you can make ear infections less likely. That means happy ears, happy pup!