Always finish the full course of the medication, even if your pet seems to be feeling better. Lapses or errors in treatment can prolong your pup’s illness.

Maintenance and Prevention

Whether it’s to prevent an infection from starting or to manage the healing of a dog ear infection that’s already in progress, ear cleaning is an important part of your dog’s hygiene. Cleaning your dog’s ears can:

  • Make it easier for you to examine your dog’s ear canal
  • Remove microbes and other small foreign objects that may cause dog ear infections
  • Clean and expose the ear canal for possible topical medication applications

Ear infections are often caused by excess moisture. Take care to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears after a swim or a bath. If your dog experiences chronic infections, talk to your vet about underlying causes such as allergies. 

Managing your dog’s hygiene is an effective way to prevent future ear infections. Clean your dog’s ears by:

  • Gently wiping the ear with an absorbent gauze. Never use a washcloth or paper towel.
  • Avoiding cotton swabs, which can push debris deeper into your dog’s ear. 
  • Cleaning the external portions of your dog’s ears

For many dogs, ear infections are a recurring problem. Be proactive about keeping your dog’s ears clean and dry to prevent future ear-related health issues.

When to See a Vet

As soon as you notice symptoms of an ear infection in your faithful friend, you should contact your veterinarian. Prompt and proactive treatment will ensure your dog’s comfort and happiness. 

WebMD Medical Reference