How to Clean Dog Ears at Home: Step-by-Step Instructions, Tips & Vet-Approved Solutions

How To Clean Dog Ears: Key Points

• Regular ear cleaning prevents infections 
• Use only vet-approved products 
• Never use Q-tips or harsh chemicals 
• Wipes, powders, and liquids serve different roles

Introduction

Cleaning your dog’s ears may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s essential for their health and comfort. Whether your pup is a floppy-eared Basset Hound or a water-loving Retriever, regular ear maintenance helps prevent infections, reduce vet bills, and keep your dog happy and itch-free. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean dog ears at home—naturally and safely—using approved methods, homemade cleaning solutions, and pro tips that most articles overlook.

Keep reading to learn exactly how to clean dog ears at home using safe, natural methods that protect your pup’s health and prevent painful infections!

How to Know When Your Dog’s Ears Need Cleaning

Knowing when it’s time to clean your dog’s ears can help you avoid infections, discomfort, and potential hearing issues. Not all dogs need frequent cleanings—but all dog owners should know the warning signs.

Signs Your Dog’s Ears May Be Dirty or Infected

Look for these early symptoms to decide if an ear cleaning is necessary:

• Odor coming from the ear
• Brown, yellow, or black discharge
• Visible wax buildup
• Head shaking or ear scratching
• Redness or swelling around the ear canal
• Sensitivity when touched

If you notice blood, pus, or if your dog seems in pain, stop immediately and consult your vet for further assistance.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears? (Based on Breed & Lifestyle)

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often to clean dog ears—it depends on breed, activity level, and individual ear anatomy.

Here’s a general guideline:

What You’ll Need Before You Start: Safe Solutions & Must-Have Tools

Before you start cleaning, make sure you have the right supplies on hand. Using the proper tools—and using them correctly—can make the process easier, safer, and more comfortable for your dog.

Why Pet Ear Wipes Are a Game-Changer for At-Home Ear Cleaning

For routine maintenance or nervous dogs, pet ear wipes are often the easiest way to clean ears at home. Products like Zymox Advanced Enzymatic Ear Wipes use gentle enzymes to break down wax and soothe irritation—without dripping liquid deep into the canal.

Ear wipes are perfect for:

• Mild odor or wax
• Sensitive dogs
• Quick cleanups between deep cleanings

Using Ear Powder for Hair Removal in Curly-Coated Breeds

Some breeds grow hair inside their ear canals, which traps moisture and debris. Ear powder helps grip that hair so it can be gently removed.

Use ear powder if:

• Your groomer or vet recommends ear plucking
• You’re trained or supervised while doing it
• Your dog has excessive inner ear hair

Liquid Ear Cleaners: When to Use Them (and When Not To)

Before using any ear cleaner—store-bought or homemade—it’s a good idea to check in with your vet, especially if your dog is a puppy or has had ear issues before. While ear cleaning can be part of regular grooming, a vet can help you choose the right products and avoid any potential irritation.

Liquid dog ear cleaning solutions are most commonly used for:

• Flushing out heavy wax buildup
• Drying residual moisture after swimming or baths
• Managing mild yeast or bacterial overgrowth (with vet approval)

Avoid using them if your dog:

• Has visible redness, swelling, open sores, or crusting
• Shows signs of pain or yelping when ears are touched
• Dislikes liquid near the ears—this can turn into a stressful or dangerous struggle
• Is a puppy with undeveloped ear canals—always check with your vet first

Even natural options, like a homemade ear cleaning solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part distilled water, should not be used without your vet’s approval. Natural doesn’t always mean safe—especially if your dog has sensitive skin, allergies, or an undiagnosed infection.

When in doubt, let your vet assess the situation first and recommend the right product and cleaning frequency for your dog’s specific needs. They may suggest an enzymatic formula, prescribe a medicated drop, or advise against cleaning altogether if the ear requires treatment instead.

How to Clean Dog Ears at Home (Safely and Stress-Free)

Ready to get started? Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to clean your dog’s ears at home naturally and without stress.

Step-by-Step Guide (With Calming Tips)

1. Get your dog comfortable – Sit on the floor or place your dog on a stable grooming table. Offer treats and praise to help them relax.
2. Lift the ear flap gently – Hold the ear upright to fully expose the ear canal.
3. Apply cleaner or wipe – If using a liquid, squeeze a few drops into the canal (don’t insert the tip too far). If using a wipe, gently clean the visible parts inside the ear.
4. Massage the base of the ear – Count to 20 while rubbing in small circles. You’ll hear a squishing sound as debris loosens.
5. Let your dog shake – This helps dislodge gunk from deep inside.
6. Wipe away loosened debris – Use gauze or a cotton pad to clean out the outer ear canal.
7. Reward your dog – Give a treat and lots of praise for staying calm.

What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

Avoid these 3 common mistakes:

1. NEVER use Q-tips – They can push debris deeper or damage the eardrum.
2. DON’T over-clean – Too much cleaning strips natural oils and causes dryness or irritation.
3. NEVER use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide – Too harsh and irritating for sensitive tissue.

How to Safely Hold a Wiggly or Nervous Dog

For jumpy dogs, try:

• A grooming table with an arm and loop
• Having a helper gently hold the dog’s body
• Wrapping your dog in a towel (like a burrito) to keep paws contained
• Stability = safety. The more secure your setup, the smoother the cleaning will be.

"A grooming table is am absolutely must! It's not recommended - and it is not very safe - to groom our pets on any other surface than a table specially made for grooming ... The reason being is that [a grooming table's] surfaces are very stable, and also come with a grooming arm and a clamp." - Nadia Bongelli, award-winning professional dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor

Post-Cleaning Care: What to Expect & Watch For

You’re done cleaning—but don’t pack up yet. Here’s what to look for after the fact.

What’s Normal After Cleaning

Don’t panic if your dog:

• Shakes their head for a few minutes
• Has mild moisture or wax near the opening of the ear
• Looks annoyed (hey, wouldn’t you be?)

All of this is normal and should subside quickly.

Warning Signs That Need a Vet’s Attention

However, we recommend calling your vet if you notice:

How to Apply Ear Medication After Cleaning

If your dog has an infection or chronic issue, your vet may prescribe ear drops or ointment. Cleaning the ears first allows the medication to work better.

When a Vet May Prescribe Ear Medication

You may get a prescription for:

• Yeast or bacterial infections
• Chronic inflammation
• Mites or fungal overgrowth

Why You Need To Let a Vet Demonstrate First

Always ask your vet to walk you through the first dose. They'll show you:

• How much to use
• Where to apply it
• How to hold your dog safely

At-Home Application Tips to Follow Vet Instructions

✔️ Clean ears first (unless told otherwise)

✔️ Apply the medication per directions

✔️ Massage the base of the ear

✔️ Wipe excess medication only from outer ear

✔️ Monitor for side effects or irritation

Expert Tips for Easier, Faster Ear Cleaning

Want to make cleaning even smoother? Try these pro grooming tips:

• Clean after a walk – Your dog will be calmer and more cooperative
• Keep treats visible – Use high-value rewards to build positive associations
• Create a routine – Weekly checks help catch issues early
• Rotate between wipes and liquids – Alternate based on how dirty your dog’s ears are
• Stay consistent – Like nail trimming, the more often you clean, the easier it becomes

"Something that I would recommend is to clean your pet's ears about once a week, or about every two weeks or so. It's not a great idea to overclean the ears, especially if the ears are healthy." - Nadia Bongelli, award-winning professional dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor

Keep Your Dog Healthy—One Ear at a Time

Cleaning your dog’s ears doesn’t have to be messy, stressful, or complicated. With the right products, technique, and knowledge, you can protect your dog from painful infections and make ear care a positive part of your grooming routine.

Learn How to Groom Like a Pro (Without Leaving Your Home)

If you’re ready to take your dog’s grooming into your own hands, Paw Parent Academy’s online DIY grooming courses are the perfect place to start! You’ll learn exactly how to clean your dog’s ears the right way—plus how to trim nails, bathe safely, brush properly, and build a stress-free grooming routine at home. Taught by certified professionals, these courses are designed for beginners and pet parents who want to care for their dogs with confidence.

FAQs About Dog Ear Cleaning

What can I use to clean out my dog’s ears?

Use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution, ear wipes, or a homemade mix (with vet guidance).

How often should I be cleaning my dog’s ears?

It depends on breed and lifestyle—anywhere from weekly to monthly. See our chart above for details.

How do you get brown gunk out of a dog’s ear?

Use a liquid ear cleaner to flush it out, then gently wipe with gauze or a cotton pad.

Is hydrogen peroxide good to clean dog ears?

No, never. It can irritate sensitive skin and delay healing.

Can I use cotton balls to clean a dog’s ears?

Yes—use soft cotton pads or gauze, but avoid pushing anything deep into the canal.

Can I use vinegar to clean dog ears?

Diluted white vinegar can be safe in small amounts, but ask your vet before using any homemade solution.

How do I clean my dog’s ears if they have an infection?

Only under vet supervision. Infections often require medication.

What is the best homemade dog ear cleaning solution?

1 part white vinegar + 1 part distilled water—but only with your vet’s go-ahead.

Any other tips for how to clean dog ears at home naturally?

Yes: be gentle, stay calm, and reward your dog. Consistency is more important than perfection.