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How to clean long dog ears?

Long-eared dogs like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds often get waxy buildup or trapped dirt—you might notice them scratching their ears more, or a faint odor coming from the area.
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Long-eared dogs like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds often get waxy buildup or trapped dirt—you might notice them scratching their ears more, or a faint odor coming from the area. Don’t grab a cotton swab right away, though; shoving it too deep can damage their eardrum, and in some regions, ignoring ear infections (which start with poor cleaning) could be considered animal neglect under local laws.

First, grab a vet-recommended ear cleaner—avoid homemade mixes like vinegar and water, as they can irritate sensitive ear skin. Have a few soft gauze pads or paper towels handy, and find a quiet spot where your dog feels calm (maybe with a treat nearby to reward them). Gently lift their ear flap upward and outward to straighten the ear canal—this helps the cleaner reach the right spots without force.

Squirt a small amount of cleaner into the ear, then massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds. You’ll hear a squelching sound—that’s normal, and it means the cleaner is breaking up wax. Let your dog shake their head afterward; this helps dislodge dirt and excess cleaner, so have a towel ready to catch any mess (it can get messy fast!).

Use a gauze pad to wipe the inside of the ear flap and the opening of the ear canal—never go deeper than what you can see. If you notice redness, discharge, or your dog yelps in pain, stop cleaning and call the vet. Ear infections can worsen quickly, and in some places, letting an infection fester could lead to fines for not providing proper pet care.

Stick to a regular cleaning schedule—most long-eared dogs need their ears cleaned every 1-2 weeks, or more often if they love swimming (water trapped in ears causes infections). Make it a positive routine: give your dog a treat after each session, so they learn to associate ear cleaning with something good, not stress. This behavioral trick makes future cleanings easier for both of you.

Cleaning your long-eared dog’s ears isn’t just about keeping them smelling fresh—it’s about preventing pain and staying compliant with local pet welfare laws. With the right tools, a calm approach, and regular checks, you’ll help your pup avoid ear trouble and keep their ears healthy for years to come. Your dog can’t tell you when their ears hurt, so it’s up to you to stay on top of their care.

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