Cleaning your dog’s ears is important preventing infections, stopping waxy build up, and aiding in the health of the overall ear. Many over-the-counter ear cleansers contain harsh chemicals, that’s why are growing number of pet owners prefers to use natural ear cleaners for dogs.
Here we’ll show you how to make a simple, easy, veterinarian-approved homemade dog ear cleaner as well as how to properly clean your dog’s ears safely and effectively.
Why Use a Natural Ear Cleaner for Dogs?
Dogs, especially those with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds), are prone to ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or moisture buildup. A natural ear cleaner can help:
✔ Reduce wax and debris
✔ Soothe irritation and itching
✔ Prevent infections without harsh chemicals
✔ Save money compared to store-bought solutions
DIY Natural Ear Cleaner for Dogs (Vet-Approved Recipe)
This homemade ear cleaner is gentle, effective, and free from alcohol or artificial additives.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup distilled water (or boiled & cooled water)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (organic, raw, unfiltered) – balances pH & fights yeast
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted) – has antifungal & antibacterial properties
- 1 tsp colloidal silver (optional) – natural antimicrobial
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a clean bowl or bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently wipe the outer ear.
- For deeper cleaning, fill a small dropper with the solution, lift your dog’s ear, and apply a few drops. Massage the base of the ear for 20 seconds.
- Let your dog shake their head to loosen debris, then wipe away excess with a clean cloth.
Frequency: Clean ears once a week for maintenance, or as recommended by your vet.
Tips for Safely Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
✅ Check ears regularly – Look for redness, odor, or excessive wax.
✅ Never use Q-tips – They can push debris deeper into the ear canal.
✅ Be gentle – If your dog resists, stop and try later.
✅ Dry ears after swimming/baths – Moisture can lead to infections.
❌ Avoid hydrogen peroxide or alcohol – These can irritate sensitive ears.
When to See a Vet
If your dog exhibits symptoms of an ear infection (scratching or shaking their head and discharge, bad odor) visit the vet. Natural cleansers are good for upkeep, yet infections often require treatment by a professional.
Final Thoughts
This homemade natural ear cleaner for dogs is a simple, inexpensive as well as efficient method to maintain your pet’s ears solid. You can prevent infections without harsh chemicals by opting for the mild ingredients such as apple cider vinegar and coconut oil.
Give this recipe a shot today and let us know how it turns out for your dog! 🐾