Like humans, dogs can develop ear conditions, such as wax buildup and ear infections, that are accompanied by numerous unpleasant symptoms. Fortunately, if this happens to your dog, your veterinarian can evaluate what’s wrong and prescribe the appropriate ear drops for dogs to alleviate discomfort.
Table of Contents
- Why Do Dogs Need Ear Drops?
- Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Ear Drops for Dogs
- When to See a Veterinarian
- 4 Tips for Making Your Dog’s Ear Care Easier
- Summary
Applying your dog’s ear drops for dogs requires a clean environment, careful handling, and a relaxed pup. In this article, we’ll review the steps to applying ear drops for dogs, common ear conditions that require drops, and tips for resistant dogs.
Don’t leave your pet’s food safety to chance
Sign up for Petful recall alerts today.
Get Free Recall Alerts
Don’t leave your pet’s food safety to chance
Sign up for Petful recall alerts today.
Get Free Recall Alerts
Why Do Dogs Need Ear Drops?
Ear drops for dogs are usually designed to treat infections, although formulas vary depending on the condition. There are three classifications of ear infection based on location that require ear drops for dogs:
- otitis externa (external)
- otitis media (middle)
- and otitis interna (internal).
Bacterial and yeast infections are common in dogs and are often located outside of the ear canal. While any dog could get an ear infection, dogs with floppy ears, like Beagles and Golden Retriever, are the most vulnerable because moisture is more likely to get trapped beneath their ears and lead to bacteria growth.
Though uncommon, ear mites are another possible problem for dogs. Symptoms include ear discharge and a strong odor, and a veterinarian can prescribe the proper treatment.
The development of ear mites or an ear infection is sometimes triggered by an allergy. Your vet will do a thorough exam and check for any allergies. If you suspect your dog is reacting to something specific, provide that information at the appointment.
Using ear drops for dogs effectively can make a significant difference in their ear health and overall well-being.
Dogs also get wax buildup just like humans do, and ear drops for dogs are sometimes needed to clear blockages and relieve discomfort. The same goes for swimming-related discomfort. If your dog takes a dip from time to time, more moisture may stay trapped in their ears, necessitating the use of ear drops for dogs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Ear Drops for Dogs
When prescribing medication for your dog, your vet may have specific application instructions when applying the ear drops for dogs. In general, though, the following steps should be taken for applying an ear cleaner or medicated ear drops for dogs.
- Have Your Supplies Ready
Regular use of ear drops for dogs can prevent potential ear infections and maintain ear health.
Make sure everything you need is in arm’s reach:
- the prescribed ear drops
- cotton balls or gauze
- and your dog’s favorite treats.
- Prepare Your Dog
Choose an application spot in your house where your dog feels comfortable—perhaps in the room where they usually sleep. Ensure the environment is calm and quiet and that your pup is relaxed.
At this stage, you may want to give them treats while touching your dog’s head and ear; when done right, this will cue them to stay still and help get them comfortable.
- Position the Head and Ear
Hold your dog securely, ensuring their head is steady. Gently lift the ear flap so the ear canal is exposed. If your dog squirms, be patient and wait until the head is positioned before continuing.
- Apply the Drops
Insert the dropper just inside the ear canal and apply the prescribed number of drops.
- Massage the Ear
For at least one minute, lightly massage the base of the ear. This supports absorption and helps the medication spread evenly. Your dog will likely shake out their head when released, so this stage is important for the medication’s effectiveness.
- Reward Your Dog
Once finished applying the ear drops for dogs, celebrate your pup’s cooperativeness with praise and treats! Positive reinforcement lets them know they did a good job and that they’ll be rewarded next time.
3 Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Some dogs may avoid the ear drop application at first—jerking away, hiding, or even snapping at you. Don’t get discouraged if this happens; your dog is just not familiar with this treatment process.
Here are some specific challenges that can arise and how best to handle them.
- Your Dog Resists Handling
If your dog gets stressed and tries to make a run for it, ask someone to assist with restraining them. Your assistant can be in charge of giving treats as well. You can even practice very short sessions of treating your dog while handling their ears each day to help sensitize them for future sessions. Always be gentle, use a soothing voice, and give them treats during and when it’s all over.
- It’s Difficult to Reach the Ear Canal
The key to applying ear drops is to position your dog’s head at the correct angle so the medication easily slides into the ear canal. This is another reason to have a second person to help keep your dog still and cooperative. Lift the ear flap and wait for the right angle before releasing drops.
- Your Dog Shakes Their Head Immediately After Application
It’s normal for dogs to shake their heads after getting ear drops. This of course means the medication may fly out of their ears, creating a mess. Try to keep your dog calm for a minute to allow for absorption. If any debris, such as ear wax, comes out of their ears after shaking their heads, gently wipe it away with a tissue or cotton pad.
When to See a Veterinarian
Your veterinarian will let you know how soon the medication will take effect. Return to the vet in following scenarios:
- Your dog continues to show signs of discomfort, scratching, or head shaking after treatment time.
- The ear has a foul odor, pus, or swelling.
- Your dog resists treatment due to pain. This may be a sign of a more serious issue.
- The symptoms subside but then quickly return after completing treatment.
Learning how to properly apply ear drops for dogs is essential for maintaining their ear health.
4 Tips for Making Your Dog’s Ear Care Easier
As a pet parent, you want your pup to be as healthy as possible. To prevent painful ear conditions, you can take small actions that maintain the health of your dog’s ears.
- Use the top ear-drop brands.
Ask your vet about some popular brands on the market, including Zymox, Vetnique, and Tresaderm. Your vet can inform you about which active ingredients are needed for your dog’s specific condition and provide expert guidance on which drops are best.
- Increase your dog’s comfort levels with ear touching and cleaning.
As mentioned, behavioral training with treats can help a resistant dog become more relaxed during ear cleanings and ear drop applications.
- Establish a regular ear cleaning routine to prevent infections.
Regular ear cleanings help prevent infections. Some floppy-eared breeds may need more frequent cleanings. Your vet can advise on how often you should clean your dog’s ears.
- Keep ear hair trimmed to promote ventilation.
For breeds with floppy ears, long hair, and frequent ear issues, trimming their hair can keep the area clean, dry, and infection-free.
Summary
Proper ear care will support your dog’s overall health. If your vet has prescribed ear drops for a particular condition, follow their instructions closely. Take measures to make your dog’s ear treatments as stress-free as possible. If the ear condition does not improve with treatment, seek additional veterinary care.
Feature images by Mitchell Orr on Unsplash and Helena Lopes on Unsplash
Make sure to consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best ear drops for dogs based on their specific needs.
Using the right ear drops for dogs can help prevent complications that may arise from untreated ear issues.
Always follow the vet’s instructions when applying ear drops for dogs to ensure their safety and health.
Remember that ear drops for dogs are only part of the solution—regular check-ups are also important.
Overall, understanding how to use ear drops for dogs effectively can lead to a healthier, happier pet.
