Keeping dogs ears clean

[Jennyhaschicks]

What do you all use to keep your dogs ears clean? I use this stuff from the vet's office but I am curious if there is something otc I can also use?

 

[mom2jedi]

What are you cleaning them for? Just normal maintenance or are you trying to treat something like yeast or a bacterial infection? Most large petstores have ear cleaner (and depending on the store more than one) and you can even find some products that help with problems. If you are just doing routine cleaning, otc ones are fine. I have a Catahoula that has chronic yeast in one ear (floppy eared dog thing). I used the vet stuff in the beginning and followed their instructions exactly and the expensive stuff didn't ever get rid of it completely. Now I use an otc one and while it doesn't get rid of it either, keeps it controlled enough to keep him comfortable for much less.

 

[Jennyhaschicks]

At this time just routine cleaning.
She has had trouble in the past. (yup, floppy ears)

 

[Equus5O]

I've always just used a bit of mineral oil on a cotton ball.

 

[dinahmoe]

i use half white vinegar/half water for maintenance and it keeps the ears clean and dry.

 

[ThornyRidge]

I use the ear cleansing pads sold thru Dr.Foster Smith.. I have also seen similar products at TSC and other pet supply stores.. I do my dogs ears periodically or when I notice she begins to shake her head.. this seems to fend off ear infections.. I have a Lab with the floppy ears also..

 

[True Grit]

I use my Jack Russel. He takes care of everybody else for me. If we have an issue I use 50/50 hydrogen peroxide and water.

 

[Blueggchick]

I have a rottweiler and I use a combination of 1/2 apple cider vinegar and 1/2 peroxide in a spray bottle. I spray a little in the ear and use a cotton ball to dry out. Helps keep yeast away.

 

[verity]

we have Cavaliers and Japanese Chin along with a rescued dachshund ---

I clean ears with a cotton ball soaked in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water.

When the ears are dry, I add a little Thornit powder to the area around the ear canal --

This routine works for my 'floppy-eared' ones if I am consistent with the routine --

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Cheap, easy homemade earwash.
You can fiind the ingredients at most drug stores.
It's great for fungus infections and ear mites too:

Blue Power Ear Wash Recipe:

16 Oz. Isopropyl Alcohol

4 Tablespoons Boric Acid Powder

16 Drops Gentian Violet Solution 1%

Mix together in alcohol bottle and shake well.

Shake this solution every time you use it to mix the Boric Acid Powder.