What should I check before cleaning my dog's ears? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Before cleaning your dog's ears, check whether the wax really looks like a routine build-up and whether the ear itself seems comfortable. A little wax can be normal, but redness, smell, pain, discharge or repeated head shaking can point to irritation or another issue that needs attention first.
Things To Check
1. Check whether your dog is scratching, head shaking, rubbing their ears, or holding one ear differently from usual.
2. Look closely at the outer ear for redness, swelling, heat, scabs, broken skin or discharge.
3. Notice the wax itself. Small amounts of pale brown wax can be normal, but dark debris, wet discharge or a strong smell may mean the ear needs more than simple cleaning.
4. Check if the ear seems painful when touched, as even gentle handling should not cause obvious flinching or pulling away.
5. Think about whether the problem started after swimming, bathing, grooming, muddy walks or lots of activity, as moisture and debris can make wax build-up more noticeable.
6. Compare both ears if you can. One ear only being affected can sometimes suggest a local issue rather than just routine dirt.
7. Make sure there is nothing stuck in the ear canal that you can see easily from the outside, but do not put anything into the ear to check deeper.
Common Causes
The most common reason is simple wax build-up, especially in dogs with floppy ears, lots of hair around the ear, or a tendency to collect dirt and moisture.
Ear wax can also look worse after swimming, bathing or exercise, when the ear is warmer or damp.
Less commonly, waxy ears can be linked to irritation, allergies, a foreign body, or an ear infection. You can't tell the cause for certain just by looking, which is why the surrounding signs matter.
What To Do
If the ear looks comfortable and the wax is mild, keep the area clean and dry and follow your usual ear care routine.
Only clean the outer ear and the parts you can see safely. Avoid cotton buds or poking inside the ear, as that can push wax deeper or cause irritation.
If the ear is damp, gently dry the outer area after swimming or washing. Keeping hair, mud and excess moisture away from the ear can also help make routine cleaning easier.
Monitor the ear over the next day or two. If the wax, smell or discomfort keeps coming back, that’s a sign the ear may need a vet check rather than repeated home cleaning.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if your dog seems sore, if the ear is red or swollen, if there is a bad smell or discharge, or if the problem keeps returning. These signs can mean the ear needs proper assessment before any further cleaning.
Seek advice sooner if your dog won’t let you touch the ear, is very head-shy, or if the issue is only affecting one ear and getting worse.
Products That May Help
When you're dealing with routine ear hygiene, a suitable pet care collection may help support your normal grooming routine and keep the area clean around the ears.
Related Questions
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Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.