Ear checks, cleaning & warning signs

Know your dog’s usual ears

Check gently for changes in smell, visible wax, discharge and comfort. Redness, head shaking, scratching or reluctance to be touched can indicate a problem. Ear shape does not determine a single cleaning schedule. Healthy ears may need little intervention; unnecessary cleaning can irritate them.

Clean only when appropriate

Ask your vet whether cleaning is needed and which dog-appropriate cleaner suits your dog. If recommended, follow the demonstrated technique and product directions: keep the nozzle at the entrance, allow head shaking and wipe visible material from the outer ear with a soft pad. Do not push cotton buds, fingers or tools down the canal. Deep cleaning and plucking are not routine owner tasks.

Stop for pain or unusual discharge

Do not clean a painful, red, swollen or strongly smelling ear before advice. Your vet may need to examine the canal and eardrum and check for infection, allergy, mites or a foreign body. Do not reuse old ear drops: suitability depends on the cause and condition of the eardrum.

When to call

Arrange assessment for new or persistent head shaking, scratching, smell or discharge. Sudden severe discomfort after a walk can reflect a grass seed and needs prompt attention; do not try to retrieve it from the canal. A new head tilt, imbalance or marked pain needs urgent veterinary advice. Read grass-seed safety before exposed walks.

Continue your care plan

Grooming & Body Care · Keeping my dog healthy · New symptoms: find the right next step

Evidence and review

General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.

• PDSA: appropriate ear cleaning
• PDSA: ear infections
• PDSA: ear problems

Report a correction · Our evidence standards