Dog Ear Cleaning 101: What to Watch For Between Grooms

Not every dog needs much help with their ears — but breeds with floppy ears, heavy hair around the ear canal, or a habit of swimming and getting wet tend to build up more dirt and moisture than breeds with upright, well-ventilated ears.

Breeds That Often Need More Attention

• Floppy-eared breeds (Cocker Spaniels, Cockapoos, Bassett Hounds) — less airflow means moisture and debris get trapped more easily.
• Water-loving breeds that swim or get bathed frequently, since trapped water is a common contributor to buildup.
• Breeds with hair growing inside the ear canal itself, which can trap wax and debris more than a bare canal would.

Normal Maintenance vs. a Vet Visit

Routine ear cleaning — wiping away visible dirt and buildup on the outer ear — is a normal part of grooming maintenance for dogs prone to it. But some signs point to something beyond routine cleaning: frequent head shaking or scratching at the ears, a strong odor, redness or swelling, or visible discomfort when the ear is touched. Those are worth a veterinary visit rather than home or grooming-appointment cleaning, since they can indicate an infection that needs treatment, not just a cleaning.

If you're not sure which category your dog falls into, a groomer can take a look during a regular appointment and let you know honestly whether it's routine maintenance or something to bring up with your vet.