It is best to use saline eye solution to clean the ear. Do not use wax removal liquid or other over-the-counter ear cleaners. Squirt enough cleaner into the ear to fill the canal. Massage the base of the ear until you hear the solution “squish.”
Dark brown earwax may simply be a build-up of healthy wax. Your dog's ear may just need cleaning. Gently wipe away the dirt and debris with a warm, damp cloth and dry afterward. Yeast infections (candida or Malassezia spp) commonly cause earwax to turn greasy, dark brown or reddish-brown.
We do not recommend the use of alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your dog's ears. These products can cause inflammation of the ear canal and further exacerbate infections. Your veterinarian can provide recommendations on the best products to use.
Head shaking and ear scratching in dogs typically indicate ear irritation, often from infections or allergies. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and discomfort without discharge or odor. Treatment involves cleaning the ear with vet-approved solutions and possibly prescribing antibiotics or antifungal medications.
An example of a recommended vet-approved ear cleaner is Virbac Epi-Otic® Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs & Cats. When you clean your pup's ears, use clean cotton balls or cotton wipes.
Vinegar Rinse – Create a mixture of 1/3 apple organic cider vinegar (2% to 2.5% acetic acid) and 2/3 water. Using a dropper, gently flush the ear canal with between 1 and 5 ml of the solutions.
Schechter explains, “Cleaning wipes should not be used on pets, as they may have harmful ingredients or could dry out their skin.”
An Elizabethan cone collar or no-flap ear wrap may help prevent self-trauma. You can also try an over-the-counter ear cleaner to help decrease the bacterial or yeast population in the ear temporarily, but a visit to the veterinarian as soon as possible is still best.
Ear mites can cause several signs, including a black discharge, scratching, and head shaking.
An ear mite infection will cause your dog's ears to itch, which often results in them shaking their head excessively, or scratching at their ears with their paws. Ear mites can also cause your dog's ears to: produce wax. become irritated, causing them to look red and inflamed.
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Hydrogen Peroxide: Use a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide to clean the ear. Be cautious not to use too strong a concentration, as it can cause irritation. Witch Hazel: Apply witch hazel to the ear with a cotton ball. It has astringent properties that can help dry out the ear and reduce inflammation.
Typical Dog Ear Infection Symptoms
End-of-life signs in dogs include behavioral changes like lethargy, confusion, anxiety, or increased clinginess, alongside physical declines such as labored breathing, loss of appetite/thirst, decreased mobility, and incontinence, indicating organ shutdown, pain, or general system failure, with some seeking comfort while others withdraw; it's crucial to monitor these signs and consult your veterinarian for guidance on comfort and quality of life.
The best way to get rid of your dog's yeast infection in their ear will depend upon the underlying cause and may include:
Parasites. Parasites, such as ear mites, live inside the ear canal, causing intense itching and discomfort. As your dog scratches and shakes their head in response, the skin in and around the ears can become irritated and develop crusty patches.
How do I clean my dog's ears at home?
Infections. Bacterial, yeast, and fungal infections are big players when it comes to dirty dog ears. These infections often cause redness, swelling, and a foul odor.
Causes of Excessive Ear Wax
Poor ear hygiene: Infrequent cleaning can lead to an accumulation of wax and debris. Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can increase ear wax production.
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Your veterinarian can determine if your dog's ear issues are because of mites or yeast by taking an ear swab and viewing it with a microscope.
Breeds Prone to Ear Infections and Signs to Watch For
Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs
However, ear inflammation can cause yeast levels to rise and cause a brown, greasy discharge within the ear canal and around the inside flap of your dog's ear. This discharge can be itchy and smelly for your dog.
The best way to clean your dog's ears is to use a general-purpose ear cleanser that does not contain any alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals. Wait until your dog is calm and relaxed before attempting to clean their ears.
You do not need any special equipment to clean your dog's ears. All you need is a good-quality ear cleaning solution, some cotton balls or gauze, and some treats to reward your dog. Do not use cotton-tipped applicators (Q-tips®), due to the risk of puncturing the ear drum or causing trauma to the ear canal.