Best Dog Ear Cleaners: Vetted Dog Ear Cleaning Solutions

Keeping our canine companions’ ears clean is important to maintaining their health and comfort. Excessive debris and wax buildup can lead to infection or irritation. In this article, we’ll review the Best Dog Ear Cleaner Solution in the market to help you choose the right solution for your pup. We evaluated and compared the most popular products based on ingredients, safety, effectiveness, value, and ease of use. Whether your dog suffers from chronic infections or simply wants to keep their ears clean, our picks for the best dog ear care will help you find the right product.

1. Mister Ben’s Dog Ear Cleaning Solution & Ear Therapy

MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Tonic with Aloe is an excellent dog ear cleaner that helps keep ears fresh, clean, and healthy. This tonic uses a gentle, non-irritating formula to remove dirt, wax buildup, and debris from your dog’s ears—helping a dog prone to ear infections.

Salicylic acid’s main active ingredient has antibacterial and antifungal properties to kill germs while keeping the ears at the right pH balance. It works to gently flush out and exfoliate the ear canal without harsh chemicals. The added aloe is soothing and moisturizing for any inflammation or itchiness.

Application is straightforward—simply tilt your dog’s head to the side and pour in the recommended amount of tonic, then gently massage the base of the ear. The solution helps break up waxy plugs and loosens up debris. Afterwards, wipe out the excess with a tissue or cotton ball. Most dogs tolerate the tonic very well.

Overall, MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Tonic is a high-quality, effective dog ear cleaner made of aloe and natural ingredients. The gentle formula cleans deeply to prevent ear infections, while added aloe soothes and moisturizes. It’s a veterinarian-approved and budget-friendly ear care solution for dogs with dirty, waxy, smelly, or irritated ears.

2. Vets Preferred Dogs Ear Flush (Best Ear Cleaner For Dogs)

Vet’s Preferred Advanced Ear Flush is a veterinarian-formulated ear cleaner designed to treat if your dog has an ear infection, flush out hard-to-reach debris, and prevent recurring issues in dogs.

This powerful, maximum-strength formula contains salicylic acid, boric acid, and acetic acid to vigorously break down wax, exudate, and built-up debris—including biofilms that protect bacteria. The boric and acetic acid adjust the ear’s pH, making it harder for yeast and bacteria to survive.

In addition to its strong antimicrobial agents, the formula contains aloe vera and tea tree oil to soothe inflammation and provide a pleasant aroma. The thick consistency allows it to penetrate the ear canal rather than quickly running out deeply. Plus, it rinses cleanly after 5 minutes.

According to many owners of dogs with chronic signs of ear infections and significant discomfort, this ear flush works exceptionally well when other products have failed. The deep cleaning alleviates head shaking, scratching, odor, and mess. While it’s formulated for severe issues, it’s gentle enough for maintenance cleaning.

Overall, Vet’s Preferred Advanced Ear Flush is one of the most powerful veterinarian-formulated ear treatments available. The strong antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-yeast agents make it ideal for deep-cleaning severely infected dog ears.

3. Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner is a veterinarian-formulated ear solution designed to tackle itchy, uncomfortable, and infected dog ears. It contains a unique micro-filtered, stabilized form of salicylic acid to exfoliate and flush the ear canal gently. This special compound penetrates biofilms and removes debris, dirt, discharge and dead skin—providing ideal prevention against recurring issues.

In addition, the formula includes cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and benzalkonium chloride to prevent microbial growth of bacteria and yeast, the two main causes of infection and inflammation.

The cleanser has an appropriate pH level and osmolality, making it a non-irritating isotonic and buffered rinse. It even helps to restore the natural state of the ear canal. The scent is mild yet refreshing.

According to buyers with pups prone to ear troubles, Epi-Otic helps significantly with symptoms when used at the first signs of head shaking or paw scratching at ears. With regular weekly use, most dogs show tremendous improvement in comfort.

Overall, Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner delivers highly effective microbial control and exfoliation without irritation. As a veterinarian-recommended solution designed to prevent recurring issues, it’s a top choice for keeping dog ears clean and healthy.

4. Pet MD Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes For Dog Ear Care

Pet MD ear wipes for dogs provide an affordable, gentle, and soothing everyday solution to clean dirt and debris from your dog’s ears. Formulated with natural ingredients like aloe vera, eucalyptus, and witch hazel, this daily ear cleaner gently loosens and removes wax buildup and other debris to prevent infections without drying out the ears.

The eucalyptus provides a lovely light scent while also boasting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce any irritation, redness, and discomfort. The aloe vera and glycerin ensure the formula moisturizes while cleaning to prevent any dryness or itchiness.

According to satisfied buyers with pups prone to early infections, this affordable ear solution helps keeps ears clean, fresh-smelling, and healthy with regular use. It rinses out cleanly without leaving residue. Since it’s alcohol-free and pH-balanced, it won’t cause damage if extra gets inside the ear canal.

For less than $10, Pet MD’s Dog Ear Cleaner handles typical dirt and wax buildup wonderfully. As an everyday solution with natural ingredients and a soothing eucalyptus scent, it’s a great value for keeping dog ears fresh and promoting healthy ears.

5. Nutri-Vet Ear Cleaning Solution For Dogs

Nutri-Vet Ear Cleansing Solution provides a gentle yet effective veterinarian-formulated ear cleaner containing natural botanicals to banish debris, soften wax, and prevent nasty infections.

This solution features a blend of salicylic, boric, and acetic acids to gently flush the ear canal and maintain the proper pH balance to discourage microbial growth. Chamomile, lavender, tea tree oil, and aloe work together to soothe inflammation and calm irritated ears.

Owners of pups prone to waxy buildup and infections appreciate how well this plant-based cleanser loosens debris and gunk without excessive scrubbing or harsh chemicals. The fresh herbal scent leaves ears smelling clean too. With regular use, most dogs stop incessant head shaking and scratching.

Nutri-Vet Ear Cleansing Solution handles run-of-the-mill dirt and wax with botanical extracts in a veterinarian-approved formula. If you seek an effective yet gentle ear cleaner that prevents recurring issues, soothes irritated ears, and maintains healthy ear canals, this soothing blend outperforms it.

6. VetWELL Best Dog Ear Cleaner

As a pet owner, keeping my furry companions happy and healthy is my top priority. So when my usually energetic lab, Benny, started scratching his ears nonstop and shaking his head, I knew something was wrong. The vet diagnosed an outer ear infection likely caused by moisture and gunk trapped inside his ear canals. She recommended regularly cleaning inside the ears to prevent recurrent infections. That’s when I discovered VetWELL Ear Cleaner for dogs

This veterinarian-approved ear cleaner is designed for both cats and dogs to wash away wax, dirt, and debris. It contains salicylic acid to break down waxy buildup and boric and acetic acid to balance pH and discourage microbial growth. Plus, soothing aloe vera and celandine provide anti-inflammatory relief.

I’ve been using VetWELL on Benny weekly as preventative care. It’s easy to squirt in the solution and massage around the ears gently. The light pleasant scent means no more smelly dog ears! Benny doesn’t seem bothered at all by application or rinsing. Best of all, those obsessive head shakes and ear scratches have completely stopped.

As a pet owner who wants to keep my lab happy and infection-free, I highly recommend VetWELL Dog and Cat Ear Cleaner. This veterinarian-approved formula is gentle yet effective and can be used to maintain healthy ears or treat infection-prone pooches like my Benny. It delivers clean, soothed ears with no more funky smells or discomfort. Our vet visits have never been better!

7. CleanAural Ear Wash For Ear Relief And Counter Yeast

If you’ve dealt with recurrent ear issues in your dog, it may be time to bring out the big guns. Dechra KlearOtic Ear Cleanser offers a potent triple threat of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents specially formulated to vanquish the most stubborn bacteria, yeast, and fungi driving stubborn infections.

The active ingredients include salicylic acid to exfoliate, niacinamide to calm inflammation, and a trio of intensive antimicrobials—gentamicin, betadine, and ketoconazole—proven highly effective against stubborn bacterial and fungal infections.

This potent medicated blend works fast to eliminate organism growth causing infection, itchiness, redness, and discomfort in irritated ears. Owners of pets with recurring issues report the ear cleaner successfully relieves head shaking, paw scratching, odor, and discharge after regular use.

What sets Dechra apart is its antiseptic ketoconazole to fight yeast alongside topical antibiotic gentamicin and antifungal/antibacterial betadine. This one-two anti-yeast and -bacterial punch provides superior clearance of problem-causing organisms.

For chronic or advanced ear infections requiring potent antimicrobial treatment, Dechra KlearOtic Ear Cleanser delivers proven powerful relief. This veterinarian-trusted formula battles even severe cases of bacteria, yeast, and fungi for cleaner, healthier ears.

8. Zymox Otic Pet Ear Treatment And Ear Cleanser

Zymox Ear Cleanser stands out from average ear cleaners thanks to its bio-active enzymes that work to eliminate severe infections gently. This uniquely formulated veterinarian-recommended solution leverages the cleaning power of enzymes to restore ear health.

It contains LP3 enzyme complex combined with glycolic acid to actively break down waxy buildup, debris, and even stubborn biofilm clinging to the ear canal without harsh chemicals. As enzymes digest gunk, the exfoliating acid smooths and clears the way for deeper penetration against germ-ridden debris.

In addition to active enzymatic cleaning agents, Zymox includes calendula flower extract and aloe vera to calm inflammation and irritation triggered by severe infections gently. The aloe also acts as a moisturizer, preventing dryness.

Pet owners struggling with extremely nasty recurring ear infections report that Zymox helps ease symptoms and eventually clears up the infection when other products failed. No more head shaking, smell, or discharge.

For bio-active enzyme cleaning power against intensely stubborn, antibiotic-resistant ear infections, Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bio-Active Enzymes outperforms the pack. This uniquely potent formula leverages enzymes to restore ear comfort and health for good.

9 Bexley Labs Curaseb Dog Ear Infection Treatment To Remove Ear Mite

I have a lab who has struggled with painful chronic ear infections for years. We’ve tried various ear medications and cleaners with limited success. Often, the infections would come back as soon as she finished the medication. After reading positive reviews, I decided to try the Curaseb ear flush, and I’m so glad I did!

This product is very easy to use – simply flush the dogs’ ear canals with the premixed solution once or twice daily. My dog doesn’t love having her ears cleaned, but she tolerated this well, and administering it wasn’t a struggle. Within a few days, I noticed the head shaking, scratching, odor and discharge had significantly decreased. The infection had completely cleared up after less than a week of treatment.

It’s now been several months and my dog has had no recurrence of an ear infection since using the Curaseb. I continue to use it about once a week as maintenance to keep her ears healthy. The bottle provides a generous supply of solution so one bottle lasts a couple months. It’s very convenient to quickly flush the ears rather than apply creams or ointments that can get messy.

Overall, I’m incredibly impressed with how quickly and effectively this Curaseb flush treated my dog’s chronic ear infections. Based on my experience, I would highly recommend it to any dog owner struggling with ear issues. It delivers results while being easy to administer. I’m so thankful to have finally found something that works to prevent future infections!

10. Burt’s Bees Dog Ear Care

This veterinarian-recommended, peppermint-infused formula freshens up ears and prevents yucky buildup without alcohol, chemicals, or harsh ingredients.

The gentle, yet effective wash features honey, botanical oils, and extracts like green tea and rosemary to naturally cleanse debris and debris while soothing irritated skin. A dash of peppermint oil packs an anti-fungal punch against infections as it gives off a pleasant scent dogs love. The wash rinses out easily with no messy residue.

Many owners praise the noticeable difference in their previously head-shaking, ear-scratching pups after using this all-natural cleanser. Red, waxy, stinky ears plagued by allergies, yeast, and mites see tremendous relief and comfort from the botanical oils. Even dogs who loathe ear medicine seem to enjoy this formula’s soothing aroma.

Refresh even the most irritated ears with Burt’s Bees non-irritating natural cleanser, especially for dogs. This aloe-and-peppermint-infused formula promotes healthy ears free of mess, odor, and discomfort without any harsh chemicals. See—and smell—the happy difference.

11. Pet Ear Treatment With Hydrocortisone

Our pups rely on us to keep their ears happy and healthy. But when seasonal allergies or pesky skin irritations strike, unrelenting scratching and head shaking signal serious discomfort. Pet MD’s Hydrocortisone Spray quickly calms inflamed, irritated skin around ears for instant relief when your dog needs it most.

This maximum-strength formula contains 1% Hydrocortisone to reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation immediately. The fast-acting spray temporarily relieves those nagging, itchy urges that prompt pups to claw and rub their precious ears raw, searching for relief.

The gentle yet powerful medication in Pet MD’s spray works fast to restore comfort while also reducing risk of infection. Owners love having it on hand to nip ear irritations fast without constant vet trips for prescription refills or to treat hot spots. The no-sting spray makes treatment easy even for pups who dislike ear meds. Plus, the water-based spray won’t stain furniture or bedding.

Common Causes of Dog Ear Problems

Excessive Ear Cleaning

Excessive ear cleaning can inadvertently cause more harm than good to your dog’s health. Using materials such as hydrogen peroxide or alcohol may irritate the delicate skin of the ear canal. Excessive cleaning will only compound the issue if your pet has an inflamed or ulcerated ear canal.

Certain ear cleaners might be too harsh for dogs with active infections, leading to discomfort or even damage to their ears.Misguided attempts at cleaning could pave the way for further complications. Proper and moderate cleaning methods can safeguard owners’ dogs from unnecessary pain and suffering.

Infection Due to Contact with Foreign Objects or Physical Trauma

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, exploring their environment with gusto. However, their behavior can put them at risk for ear infections due to contact with foreign bodies or physical trauma.

For example, a dog rooting in tall grass might get seeds lodged deep into the ear canal. Not only does this cause immediate discomfort and itchiness, it may escalate to an infection if not removed promptly.

Another common scenario leading to an ear infection involves dogs getting into fights or accidents, resulting in ear trauma. Scratches or bites on the sensitive ear skin can create entry points for bacteria.

This makes wounds on or near your dog’s ears a double threat: they hurt your puppy now and set the stage for potentially serious complications later.

Allergies

Allergies are among the leading instigators of ear infections in dogs, contributing to nearly 43% of cases. These allergic reactions can stem from several sources, such as dust mites, molds, and pollens.

Even specific proteins present in dog food could trigger an allergic reaction! However, you must be cautious about environmental triggers as well; specific foods like beef, dairy products, chicken, and lamb are also common allergens.

Thus, treating these allergies promptly can significantly reduce the chances of your canine friend suffering recurring ear infections.

Bacterial, Yeast Infection

Bacterial and fungal infections are common causes of ear problems in dogs. Moisture and inflammation in the ear can create an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Malassezia are some bacteria and yeast that can cause infections in a dog’s ears.

Using antifungal and antibacterial ear cleaners regularly can help prevent these infections. It’s essential to keep your dog’s ears clean to avoid painful and costly complications down the line.

Parasites

Parasites, such as ear mites, commonly cause dog ear problems. These pesky parasites feed on wax and oils in the ear canal, leading to itching, head shaking, and black discharge.

If left untreated, parasitic infections can worsen and cause discomfort for your furry friend. Regular cleaning and preventive measures can help keep parasites at bay and ensure your dog’s ears stay healthy.

Tumor or polyps

Tumors or polyps in a dog’s ears can cause ear problems and infections. These growths can lead to waxy buildup and chronic infections if left untreated. Ear tumors or polyps are considered severe cases of ear canal infection in dogs.

Along with foreign bodies, neoplasia (tumor growth) and polyps can contribute to developing ear issues in our furry friends. It’s important to note that allergic and hormonal diseases are also associated with ear polyps and infections in dogs.

Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections

Dog ear infections can be identified by symptoms such as head shaking or tilting, pungent yellow or reddish-yellow discharge, vigorous scratching, lack of balance, and swelling and redness of the ear canal.

Head shaking or head tilting

Head shaking and head tilting are common symptoms associated with dog ear infections. These signs often indicate fluid buildup in the ears, which fungal infections can cause.

Dogs with ear infections may develop a noticeable head tilt, usually towards the side of the infected ear. They may also lean, fall, or roll toward that same side. Head shaking and tilting are early warning signs of possible ear infections in dogs.

Pungent yellow or reddish-yellow discharge

A pungent yellow or reddish-yellow discharge from your dog’s ear indicates an ear infection. This discharge can be foul-smelling and may come with other symptoms like redness, inflammation, and an offensive odor.

Black or yellowish discharge is also common with ear infections. If you notice a greasy brown or gray discharge and a foul smell, it could also indicate an infection.

Pay attention to these signs and seek proper treatment for your furry friend to alleviate their discomfort. Antibacterial solutions can effectively clear the infection and keep your dog’s ears healthy.

Vigorous scratching

This is a common symptom of dog ear infections. When dogs have an infection in their ears, they scratch at them forcefully and repeatedly to relieve the discomfort. This can lead to further irritation and may even worsen the infection. Pet owners must recognize this behavior as a sign that something is wrong with their dog’s ears and promptly address the issue.

You can help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and prevent more severe complications from developing by seeking veterinary care and using proper ear wash for dogs.

Lack of balance

can indicate a dog ear infection. When a dog’s ears are infected, it can affect their equilibrium and cause them to struggle with maintaining their balance while walking or standing.

This lack of balance is often accompanied by other symptoms such as head shaking, scratching, and discharge from the ear. Address these symptoms promptly because, if left untreated, inner ear infections in dogs can lead to permanent damage, including facial paralysis and deafness.

Swelling and redness of the ear canal

Swelling and redness of the ear canal are common symptoms of dog ear infections. When a dog’s ear becomes infected, it can cause the canal to swell up and appear red.

The swelling may sometimes be accompanied by heat or tenderness when touched. Ear mites, yeast, fungal buildups, or excessive wax production often cause this inflammation. These symptoms can worsen over time, leading to more severe complications if left untreated.

It is essential to seek proper treatment for your dog if you notice swelling and redness in their ear canal to prevent further discomfort and promote successful healing.

Homemade Dog Ear Solutions That Are Natural and Safe.

Several homemade dog ear cleaner recipes use natural ingredients and are safe for your furry friend.

Most Popular Combination

The most popular combination for homemade dog ear cleaners is a mixture of equal parts apple cider vinegar and rubbing alcohol. This solution is highly effective in maintaining ear health for dogs, especially those with floppy ears like Bassett Hounds.

Not only does the combination help clean the ears, but it can also be beneficial in resolving ear infections. Many dog owners have found this simple yet powerful homemade cleaner safe and reliable for their furry friends’ ear care needs.

Soft Cleansing Solution

Warm water and baby oil are gentle and effective homemade dog ear cleaner solutions. This soft solution can help remove debris, soothe irritation, and moisturize the ears. It is important to use lukewarm water to avoid discomfort or damage to your dog’s ears. Baby oil helps dissolve wax buildup and provides a moisturizing effect.

Apply this soft solution to your dog’s ear canal using a clean cotton ball or pad, being careful not to go too deep. Repeat as needed for clean and healthy ears for your furry friend.

Witchy Combination

The “witchy combination” is a popular homemade dog ear cleaner made from vinegar and boric acid. This powerful combination helps to clean the dog’s ears and relieve itching and irritation.

Witch hazel, another natural ingredient in Vet’s Best Dog Ear Relief Wash, is often used in homemade dog ear cleaner recipes. These ingredients are known for their antibacterial properties, effectively fighting infections and keeping your dog’s ears healthy.

With the witchy combination, you can make a safe and affordable ear cleaner right at home for your furry friend.

Mild But Effective

One homemade dog ear cleaner recipe suggests apple cider vinegar, a mild and effective solution for dogs with floppy ears. It can help to prevent bacterial or fungal infections and reduce inflammation in the ear canal.

The acidity of the vinegar creates an unfavorable environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Simply mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, soak a cotton ball or pad in the mixture, then gently wipe the inside of your dog’s ears.

This natural remedy is safe and gentle on your dog’s sensitive ears, relieving irritation and promoting overall ear health.

FAQs

How Often Can I Use Homemade Dog Ear Cleaner?

You can use homemade dog ear cleaner once weekly to every two months, depending on your dog’s breed and individual needs. Regular cleaning is vital for preventing painful and costly ear infections in dogs.

However, it is also recommended to consult a veterinarian who can recommend specific dog ear cleaner products that are safe and effective for your furry friend. A commercially available ear cleaner can help protect your dog’s eardrums and natural flora, ensuring their ears stay healthy and free from infection.

What Should I Avoid When Making Homemade Dog Ear Cleaner?

When making homemade dog ear cleaners, it is essential to avoid using ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. These substances can worsen inflammation or ulcers in your dog’s ears.

It is best to steer clear of olive oil, vinegar, and shampoo as they can harm or irritate the delicate skin inside the ears. To keep your furry friend safe and comfortable, choose a good quality dog ear cleaner instead of attempting DIY solutions that could do more harm than good.

Can I Use Any Of These Recipes For Other Pets Besides Dogs?

Some of these homemade dog ear cleaner recipes can also be used for other pets. However, different animals have different physiology and sensitivities, so it’s always best to consult a veterinarian.

Can I Use Any Ear Cleaner Solution For My Dog?

No, it is vital to use a specifically formulated dog ear cleaner solution that is gentle and safe for their delicate ears. Human products may contain ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.

What Are The Signs Of An Ear Infection In Dogs?

Signs of an ear infection in dogs include excessive scratching or rubbing of the ears, redness or swelling, foul odor, discharge, head shaking, and sensitivity when touching the ears.

How Do I Properly Clean My Dog’s Ears With A Cleaner Solution?

To clean your dog’s ears with a cleaner solution, apply the recommended amount to the ear canal while gently massaging the base of the ear. Then let your dog shake its head before wiping away any excess debris with cotton balls or wipes.

what is the best dog ear cleaning solution?

The best dog ear cleaning solution is typically an over-the-counter solution that contains cleansing and/or drying agents. Veterinarians often recommend solutions with basic ingredients like propylene glycol, lactic acid, acetic acid, boric acid, chlorhexidine, Tris-EDTA, and glycerin. Zymox and Virbac Epi-Otic are two popular options.

What is the best homemade dog ear care solution?

The best homemade dog ear cleaning solution is a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water or hydrogen peroxide and water. These gentle acidic solutions help break down wax and debris while the water flushes out the ear. Just don’t use strong vinegar solutions as it can irritate the skin.

Are Dog Ear Cleaning Solutions Better Than Ear Cleaner Wipes?

In general, ear cleaning solutions are more effective at breaking down ear wax, removing debris, drying the ear canal, and treating infections compared to ear cleaner wipes. However, wipes can be more convenient and easier to administer. Using both periodically can be beneficial.

What are some good Ear Wipes?

Some good ear cleaner wipes include Pet MD’s Ear Wipes, which contain aloe, eucalyptus, and drying agents, and Zymox’s Enzymatic Ear Cleanser, which has antibacterial and antifungal enzymes to help prevent infections and soothe irritation. VEDCO also makes sterile, alcohol-free wipes suitable for maintenance cleaning.

Author Profile

Shradha KabraLifetime dog Enthusiast

Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou.com, an authoritative resource for all things Labrador Retriever. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness