The 6 Best Dog Ear Cleaners, According to Our Experts
If your dog's ears are stinky, itchy, or just plain dirty, you know it's time to find the best dog ear cleaner. Regularly cleaning your pup's ears isn't just about keeping them fresh; it's a vital step in preventing wax buildup, clearing out debris, and heading off mild infections before they get serious.
While ear cleaning is super important, picking a cleaner that's both safe and effective matters just as much. Your vet can certainly point you toward a great product, especially if your dog already has an ear infection. But don't worry, there are also tons of high-quality options you can grab right off the shelf.
Here are our top recommendations for the best dog ear cleaners.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser
- Best for Itchy Ears: Zymox Ear Cleanser
- Best Antifungal: Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
- Best for Chronic Infections: Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush
- Best for Wax Buildup: Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash
- Best for Sensitive Ears: Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula
Best Overall: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser
What We Like:
- Trusted brand
- Gentle for frequent use
- Neutral pH
- Affordable
What to Consider:
- Not medicated
The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a crowd-pleaser among veterinary specialists and pet parents alike. Why? Because it works, it's gentle, and it won't break the bank. Epi-Otic contains salicylic acid, an ingredient you've probably seen in human skincare. This acid helps break down dead skin cells and debris, making it much easier to get your dog's ears truly clean. Plus, its neutral pH means it's less likely to irritate your dog's sensitive ear canals.
While Virbac does offer medicated ear treatments, this particular cleanser is perfect for routine ear cleaning or as a pre-treatment before you apply any medicated drops.
Price: $17.99 for 8 oz.
Best for Itchy Ears: Zymox Ear Cleanser
What We Like:
- Helps relieve itchy ears
- Can be used on cats
- Gentle for long-term use
What to Consider:
- Doesn't contain medication for infection
If your dog constantly scratches their ears because of allergies or sensitivities, Zymox Ear Cleanser can bring some serious relief. This gentle, non-toxic cleanser uses a special enzyme system to tackle dirt and gunk, all while soothing irritation.
It's also safe for long-term use, making it an excellent choice for pups with ongoing ear troubles. Just know that this formula doesn't have an antibiotic or antifungal, but Zymox does make other formulas that treat various ear infections.
Price: $15.84 for 4 oz.
Best Antifungal: Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
What We Like:
- Great for yeast infections
- Can be used on cats
- Trusted brand
What to Consider:
- Can sting if ears are raw
If your dog's ears have a funky, yeasty smell or you notice dark discharge, they might have a yeast infection. Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser is a fantastic option for pups with fungal issues because it contains 2% acetic acid, which is an antifungal powerhouse. The acetic acid, along with boric acid, helps dry out the ear canal, making it a much less inviting place for yeast to grow.
This MalAcetic cleanser also has salicylic acid, which helps clear out wax and debris. Some pet parents mention it might sting a bit if your pup's ears are raw from scratching, but that feeling usually fades fast.
Price: $18.99 for 8 oz.
Best for Chronic Infections: Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush
What We Like:
- Effective against a variety of infections
- Can be used on cats
- Trusted brand
What to Consider:
- Can cause irritation
If your dog struggles with chronic ear infections, Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush can truly help. It's a powerful antiseptic cleanser that packs chlorhexidine gluconate, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that targets bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. This cleaner is super helpful for pups with ongoing ear issues, as it tackles the tiny organisms that keep those infections coming back.
It's safe for both dogs and cats, but in some animals, it can cause a bit of irritation or dryness. If you spot any redness, itching, or your pup seems uncomfortable, stop using it and chat with your vet.
Price: $16.99 for 12 oz.
Best for Wax Buildup: Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash
What We Like:
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle and non-stinging
- Good for all breeds
What to Consider:
- Strong scent
Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash is a superb choice for dogs with excessive wax buildup. It's packed with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, witch hazel, and chamomile, which team up to dissolve wax and debris. It also helps soothe and moisturize the ear canal.
This cleaner is gentle and won't sting, making it a good pick for dogs with sensitive ears. Some pet parents have noted a strong tea tree scent, but it usually dissipates quickly.
Price: $9.99 for 4 oz.
Best for Sensitive Ears: Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula
What We Like:
- Effective against a variety of infections
- All natural
- Good for all breeds
What to Consider:
- Strong smell
Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive ears because it relies on a blend of natural ingredients. This cleaner steps in to relieve itching, calm inflammation, and banish odors. The formula is also free of harsh chemicals, alcohol, and fragrances, making it safe even for the most delicate ears.
This particular ear cleaner for dogs works for all breeds and can be used for both preventing and treating ear infections. Some pet parents mention a strong smell due to the all-natural ingredients, but this typically fades fast.
Price: $24.95 for 2 oz.
How We Chose the Best Dog Ear Cleaners
Our team at Petscarelab knows how important it is to pick the right products for your furry friend. When we selected the best dog ear cleaner options for this list, we considered several key factors:
- Ingredients: We looked for ingredients that truly clean ears and help prevent infections, like salicylic acid, chlorhexidine, and acetic acid. We also considered natural ingredients that can soothe and moisturize the ear canal, such as tea tree oil, witch hazel, and chamomile.
- Safety: Every product on our list is safe for use in dogs. We steer clear of products that contain harsh chemicals or alcohol, as these can irritate sensitive ears.
- Effectiveness: We dove into customer reviews and research to make sure the products on our list really work at cleaning ears and preventing infections.
- Price: We made sure to include a range of products at different price points to fit every budget.
- Veterinary recommendation: We focused on products often recommended by veterinary specialists.
When to Clean Your Dog's Ears
How often you clean your dog's ears really depends on their breed, lifestyle, and individual needs.
- Pups with floppy ears or lots of hair in their ears (think Basset Hounds or Cocker Spaniels) tend to collect more wax and gunk, making them prone to infections. Their ears might benefit from a cleaning once a week or every two weeks.
- Dogs who love to swim might need their ears cleaned more often. Moisture can create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
- If your dog has a history of ear infections or allergies, regular ear cleaning, following your vet's advice, is crucial for preventing those problems from coming back.
- Dogs with healthy, upright ears and no history of ear problems might only need their ears cleaned once a month or even every few months.
Just remember, a routine cleaning is different from treating a full-blown infection. If your dog is showing signs of an ear infection (like redness, swelling, discharge, or pain), you need to talk to your vet right away. They can properly diagnose and treat the infection.
How to Clean Your Dog's Ears
Cleaning your dog's ears can be a quick and easy process once you get the hang of it. Here's a general guide:
- Gather your supplies: You'll need a good ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze, and plenty of treats for positive reinforcement. Skip the cotton swabs; they can push debris deeper into the ear canal or even damage the eardrum.
- Position your dog: Have your dog sit or lie down in a comfortable spot. You might even need an extra hand to gently hold your pup still, especially if they're a bit squirmy.
- Apply the cleaner: Gently hold your dog's ear flap up to reveal the ear canal. Squeeze the recommended amount of ear cleaner directly into the ear canal.
- Massage the base of the ear: Gently massage the base of your dog's ear for 20-30 seconds. You should hear a satisfying squishing sound as the cleaner works its way around inside the ear. This helps loosen wax and debris.
- Let your dog shake their head: After massaging, let your dog shake their head. This helps dislodge and remove the loosened gunk and cleaner.
- Wipe the outer ear: Use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe away any visible debris and extra cleaner from the outer ear flap and the opening of the ear canal. Never stick anything deep into the ear canal.
- Reward your dog: Praise your dog and give them a treat to create a positive association with ear cleaning.
Remember, if you're ever unsure how to clean your dog's ears, or if you suspect an infection, always chat with your veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clean my dog's ears?
No, we don't recommend hydrogen peroxide for cleaning dog ears. It can cause irritation, especially if your dog has any tiny cuts or sores in the ear canal. It can also dry out the delicate skin in the ear and mess with the natural pH balance, potentially leading to more problems. Always stick to an ear cleaner made specifically for dogs.
What are the signs of an ear infection in dogs?
Signs of an ear infection can include:
- Excessive head shaking
- Scratching or pawing at the ears
- Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
- An unpleasant odor coming from the ears
- Dark discharge (waxy, pus-like, or bloody)
- Pain when the ear is touched
- Reluctance to let you touch their head
- Loss of balance or walking in circles (in severe cases)
If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to chat with your vet for the right diagnosis and treatment.
Can I use human ear cleaner on my dog?
No, we generally don't recommend using human ear cleaner on dogs. Human ear cleaners can contain ingredients that might be too harsh or irritating for a dog's delicate ear canal, or they may have a different pH that could upset the ear's natural environment. Always use an ear cleaner made specifically and approved for pups.
,
The 6 Best Dog Ear Cleaners, According to Our Experts
If your dog's ears are stinky, itchy, or just plain dirty, you know it's time to find the best dog ear cleaner. Regularly cleaning your pup's ears isn't just about keeping them fresh; it's a vital step in preventing wax buildup, clearing out debris, and heading off mild infections before they get serious.
While ear cleaning is super important, picking a cleaner that's both safe and effective matters just as much. Your vet can certainly point you toward a great product, especially if your dog already has an ear infection. But don't worry, there are also tons of high-quality options you can grab right off the shelf.
Here are our top recommendations for the best dog ear cleaners.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser
- Best for Itchy Ears: Zymox Ear Cleanser
- Best Antifungal: Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
- Best for Chronic Infections: Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush
- Best for Wax Buildup: Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash
- Best for Sensitive Ears: Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula
Best Overall: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser
What We Like:
- Trusted brand
- Gentle for frequent use
- Neutral pH
- Affordable
What to Consider:
- Not medicated
The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a crowd-pleaser among veterinary specialists and pet parents alike. Why? Because it works, it's gentle, and it won't break the bank. Epi-Otic contains salicylic acid, an ingredient you've probably seen in human skincare. This acid helps break down dead skin cells and debris, making it much easier to get your dog's ears truly clean. Plus, its neutral pH means it's less likely to irritate your dog's sensitive ear canals.
While Virbac does offer medicated ear treatments, this particular cleanser is perfect for routine ear cleaning or as a pre-treatment before you apply any medicated drops.
Price: $17.99 for 8 oz.
Best for Itchy Ears: Zymox Ear Cleanser
What We Like:
- Helps relieve itchy ears
- Can be used on cats
- Gentle for long-term use
What to Consider:
- Doesn't contain medication for infection
If your dog constantly scratches their ears because of allergies or sensitivities, Zymox Ear Cleanser can bring some serious relief. This gentle, non-toxic cleanser uses a special enzyme system to tackle dirt and gunk, all while soothing irritation.
It's also safe for long-term use, making it an excellent choice for pups with ongoing ear troubles. Just know that this formula doesn't have an antibiotic or antifungal, but Zymox does make other formulas that treat various ear infections.
Price: $15.84 for 4 oz.
Best Antifungal: Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
What We Like:
- Great for yeast infections
- Can be used on cats
- Trusted brand
What to Consider:
- Can sting if ears are raw
If your dog's ears have a funky, yeasty smell or you notice dark discharge, they might have a yeast infection. Dechra MalAcetic Otic Cleanser is a fantastic option for pups with fungal issues because it contains 2% acetic acid, which is an antifungal powerhouse. The acetic acid, along with boric acid, helps dry out the ear canal, making it a much less inviting place for yeast to grow.
This MalAcetic cleanser also has salicylic acid, which helps clear out wax and debris. Some pet parents mention it might sting a bit if your pup's ears are raw from scratching, but that feeling usually fades fast.
Price: $18.99 for 8 oz.
Best for Chronic Infections: Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush
What We Like:
- Effective against a variety of infections
- Can be used on cats
- Trusted brand
What to Consider:
- Can cause irritation
If your dog struggles with chronic ear infections, Curaseb Chlorhexidine Ear Flush can truly help. It's a powerful antiseptic cleanser that packs chlorhexidine gluconate, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that targets bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. This cleaner is super helpful for pups with ongoing ear issues, as it tackles the tiny organisms that keep those infections coming back.
It's safe for both dogs and cats, but in some animals, it can cause a bit of irritation or dryness. If you spot any redness, itching, or your pup seems uncomfortable, stop using it and chat with your vet.
Price: $16.99 for 12 oz.
Best for Wax Buildup: Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash
What We Like:
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle and non-stinging
- Good for all breeds
What to Consider:
- Strong scent
Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash is a superb choice for dogs with excessive wax buildup. It's packed with natural ingredients like tea tree oil, witch hazel, and chamomile, which team up to dissolve wax and debris. It also helps soothe and moisturize the ear canal.
This cleaner is gentle and won't sting, making it a good pick for dogs with sensitive ears. Some pet parents have noted a strong tea tree scent, but it usually dissipates quickly.
Price: $9.99 for 4 oz.
Best for Sensitive Ears: Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula
What We Like:
- Effective against a variety of infections
- All natural
- Good for all breeds
What to Consider:
- Strong smell
Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive ears because it relies on a blend of natural ingredients. This cleaner steps in to relieve itching, calm inflammation, and banish odors. The formula is also free of harsh chemicals, alcohol, and fragrances, making it safe even for the most delicate ears.
This particular ear cleaner for dogs works for all breeds and can be used for both preventing and treating ear infections. Some pet parents mention a strong smell due to the all-natural ingredients, but this typically fades fast.
Price: $24.95 for 2 oz.
How We Chose the Best Dog Ear Cleaners
Our team at Petscarelab knows how important it is to pick the right products for your furry friend. When we selected the best dog ear cleaner options for this list, we considered several key factors:
- Ingredients: We looked for ingredients that truly clean ears and help prevent infections, like salicylic acid, chlorhexidine, and acetic acid. We also considered natural ingredients that can soothe and moisturize the ear canal, such as tea tree oil, witch hazel, and chamomile.
- Safety: Every product on our list is safe for use in dogs. We steer clear of products that contain harsh chemicals or alcohol, as these can irritate sensitive ears.
- Effectiveness: We dove into customer reviews and research to make sure the products on our list really work at cleaning ears and preventing infections.
- Price: We made sure to include a range of products at different price points to fit every budget.
- Veterinary recommendation: We focused on products often recommended by veterinary specialists.
When to Clean Your Dog's Ears
How often you clean your dog's ears really depends on their breed, lifestyle, and individual needs.
- Pups with floppy ears or lots of hair in their ears (think Basset Hounds or Cocker Spaniels) tend to collect more wax and gunk, making them prone to infections. Their ears might benefit from a cleaning once a week or every two weeks.
- Dogs who love to swim might need their ears cleaned more often. Moisture can create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
- If your dog has a history of ear infections or allergies, regular ear cleaning, following your vet's advice, is crucial for preventing those problems from coming back.
- Dogs with healthy, upright ears and no history of ear problems might only need their ears cleaned once a month or even every few months.
Just remember, a routine cleaning is different from treating a full-blown infection. If your dog is showing signs of an ear infection (like redness, swelling, discharge, or pain), you need to talk to your vet right away. They can properly diagnose and treat the infection.
How to Clean Your Dog's Ears
Cleaning your dog's ears can be a quick and easy process once you get the hang of it. Here's a general guide:
- Gather your supplies: You'll need a good ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze, and plenty of treats for positive reinforcement. Skip the cotton swabs; they can push debris deeper into the ear canal or even damage the eardrum.
- Position your dog: Have your dog sit or lie down in a comfortable spot. You might even need an extra hand to gently hold your pup still, especially if they're a bit squirmy.
- Apply the cleaner: Gently hold your dog's ear flap up to reveal the ear canal. Squeeze the recommended amount of ear cleaner directly into the ear canal.
- Massage the base of the ear: Gently massage the base of your dog's ear for 20-30 seconds. You should hear a satisfying squishing sound as the cleaner works its way around inside the ear. This helps loosen wax and debris.
- Let your dog shake their head: After massaging, let your dog shake their head. This helps dislodge and remove the loosened gunk and cleaner.
- Wipe the outer ear: Use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe away any visible debris and extra cleaner from the outer ear flap and the opening of the ear canal. Never stick anything deep into the ear canal.
- Reward your dog: Praise your dog and give them a treat to create a positive association with ear cleaning.
Remember, if you're ever unsure how to clean your dog's ears, or if you suspect an infection, always chat with your veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clean my dog's ears?
No, we don't recommend hydrogen peroxide for cleaning dog ears. It can cause irritation, especially if your dog has any tiny cuts or sores in the ear canal. It can also dry out the delicate skin in the ear and mess with the natural pH balance, potentially leading to more problems. Always stick to an ear cleaner made specifically for dogs.
What are the signs of an ear infection in dogs?
Signs of an ear infection can include:
- Excessive head shaking
- Scratching or pawing at the ears
- Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
- An unpleasant odor coming from the ears
- Dark discharge (waxy, pus-like, or bloody)
- Pain when the ear is touched
- Reluctance to let you touch their head
- Loss of balance or walking in circles (in severe cases)
If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to chat with your vet for the right diagnosis and treatment.
Can I use human ear cleaner on my dog?
No, we generally don't recommend using human ear cleaner on dogs. Human ear cleaners can contain ingredients that might be too harsh or irritating for a dog's delicate ear canal, or they may have a different pH that could upset the ear's natural environment. Always use an ear cleaner made specifically and approved for pups.
