Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Don’t you just hate it when your dog needs treatment for another ear infection?
In my twenty-plus years as a veterinarian, I’ve worked with many dogs who hate having any kind of drops put in their ears. Even mild-mannered dogs can go a little berserk when their owners approach them with a bottle of ear meds.
This guide offers expert advice and techniques to accomplish this process safely and efficiently. I’ll explain how to desensitize and reward your pup for their cooperation. I’ll also give you practical tips for dogs who are very resistant to ear handling.
KEY POINTS
- Ear infections are common in dogs. The problem results in pain and resistance to ear drop application.
- Gentle, slow ear handling will allow you to clean and medicate most dog’s ears.
- Dogs who are fearful, aggressive or very resistant can benefit from sedated ear procedures by a veterinarian.
- Treating underlying health conditions will minimize the recurrence of ear problems.
Why Do Dogs Resist Ear Drops?
Dogs may resist ear drops due to the sensitivity and pain in their ears, especially if they have otitis externa (ear inflammation). Cleaning or touching inflamed ears can be painful, and some ear cleaners may sting.
This resistance can extend to a general aversion to ear handling, complicating future medical care. It’s important to address their ear issues without causing psychological harm, adapting the approach based on their tolerance level.
First, let’s talk about dogs who allow you to handle their ears but make it obvious they don’t like it.
How to Get Prepared
My first bit of advice is to see a veterinarian before you start treating an ear infection. They will make sure you have the most effective medicine that won’t cause harm.
Now gather your supplies and set the mood…
- Ear cleaner: Look for pH-balanced, non-stinging products such as Epi-Otic Advanced. You can warm it to body temperature by setting the bottle in a bowl of warm water.
- Wiping material: Use the softest cotton wadding you can find. You can find cotton balls or cotton wadding at your local pharmacy.
- Collar and leash: Having your dog wear a collar and leash will help you keep them close so you don’t have to chase them to medicate their ears. You can attach the leash to your belt or have a helper hold it.
- Open location with good lighting: Don’t try cleaning your dog’s ears while they hide under the bed! Take them to a bright indoor area or outside in the sun.
- High-value treats: Use your dog’s absolute favorite treats. Bits of rotisserie chicken, string cheese and hot dogs are popular options. Cut the pieces very small before you start and keep them in a dish on a table nearby.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Medicating Your Dog’s Ears
- Gently pet the dog’s head and outer ears for a few minutes.
- Once they are comfortable, gently lift the outer flap of the ear you want to clean. Hold it closer to the base than the tip to avoid pulling it.
- Pour in warmed liquid cleaner until it starts overflowing from the ear opening. If your dog starts shaking their head, hold their ear flap down so the liquid doesn’t fly all over.
- Gently massage the area just under the ear opening to loosen the ear wax.
- Very gently wipe out excess liquid with cotton balls. If you see blood on the cotton balls, stop the procedure to avoid worsening the irritation. (1)
- Let the dog shake their head. This will remove more of the liquid.
- Apply medicated ear drops into the ear canal. Don’t worry too much about putting the applicator in too far. The dog’s ear canal is L-shaped and the ear drum is located at the deepest part of the L.
- Gently massage the base of the ear again to distribute the medication.
- Give your dog lots of praise and treats between each step but don’t get them overexcited. Keeping them calm even after the procedure will help their brain associate it with good things.
More from Natural Pets HQ
Read more about ear inflammation in dogs…
Dealing with Fearful or Aggressive Dogs
If your pup runs the other way as soon as you even think about medicating their ears, you will have to take steps to help them feel better about it. It’s tempting to use a muzzle and brute force, but those will only cause more problems in the long run. It’s better to use brains over brawn…
Desensitization & Counterconditioning
You may be able to train your dog to accept cleaning and ear drop administration by using behavior modification techniques.
Desensitization involves gradually getting your dog used to the procedure so they are no longer reactive. Counterconditioning means you teach your dog to associate something positive with ear handling. Animal Humane Society has a practical outline of these techniques.
Learn Behavior Techniques
This sort of behavioral training is not difficult, but it takes knowledge, time and patience.
I highly recommend the DVD from Cattle Dog Publishing “Desensitization and Counterconditioning: Teaching Dogs to Willingly Accept Medical Procedures.” You’ll learn exactly how to take your dog from very reactive to accepting of ear handling (or any other procedure).
Sedating Dogs Is a Good Option
Very reactive dogs can be sedated by your vet for a thorough ear exam and cleaning. Sedation should not be used as a last resort. By minimizing physical and psychological trauma, sedation is a humane way to treat ear problems.
After the ears are cleaned, your vet can use a product such as Claro™ Otic Solution that only needs to be applied one time. Claro contains a steroid to treat inflammation and pain in addition to antifungal and antibiotic drugs. Its effects last long enough that you won’t need to do any procedures at home.
Prevent Recurrent Ear Problems
Allergy to environmental substances like pollen is the most common cause of otitis externa in dogs. Food allergy is a less common cause of the problem.
Other health conditions that predispose a dog to ear problems include
- Ear mites
- Foreign objects
- Seborrhea
- Ear tumors
- Hypothyroidism
To avoid having to treat your dog’s ears over and over again, work with your vet to diagnose and treat these underlying problems
Chronic Ear Infections: When to Consult a Veterinary Dermatologist
For chronic ear issues in dogs, help from a veterinary dermatologist can be key. They specialize in skin and ear care. Collaboration between your vet and a dermatologist often leads to quicker improvement. (2)
These specialists will look for allergies, hypothyroidism and other skin problems that lead to ear inflammation. They often use treatments like allergy immunotherapy and special diets to improve your dog’s ear health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Share Your Ear Cleaning Tips
I’ve learned all of my best ear cleaning tricks from other dog owners. Won’t you please help struggling dog lovers by sharing your best tips in the comments? Do you distract your dog or is there a particular product that works better than others?
