A quick weekly ear check helps you catch redness, odor, or buildup before it becomes an infection.
Gently inspect your dog's ears about once a week. Lift the ear flap and look for redness, swelling, dark discharge, or an unusual odor. A small amount of pale wax is normal — redness or a yeasty smell is not.
If your dog's ears look healthy, a wipe with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and a cotton ball is plenty. Never push anything into the ear canal, and never use cotton swabs inside the ear.
Head shaking, constant scratching at the ears, or sensitivity when you touch them are all reasons to call your veterinarian. Clean, comfortable ears help prevent infections and keep your dog feeling their best between spa visits.