Many dog owners may wonder if they should spend time cleaning their dogs’ ears. The answer to this query, in short, is yes. It is not just enough to brush your dog’s coat, bathe it, and clean its teeth but also clean and wipe its ears. A regular ear cleaning regime can help keep dirt and infections at bay.
Cleaning your dog’s ears is a simple task that may be completed at home. However, if it is your first time, you may be unsure where to begin. And to help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 drops for your dog’s ears.
You can begin by seeing a veterinarian and asking questions about cleaning your canine companion’s ears and selecting the appropriate drop.
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We tested and reviewed each product before putting them in the list below. So, you can be assured about the quality. Nonetheless, we would suggest you do some research on your front and choose the best drop based on your pooch’s needs.
Are ear drops good for dogs?
Now, before delving into the top ear drop list, let us understand why we should consider buying dog ear drops?
As mentioned above, cleaning your dog’s ears is as important as grooming its fur. Uncleaned ears can easily become the home for pests that might cause infections. Moreover, just like humans, dogs may also develop ear wax, obstructing their hearing abilities.
Furthermore, if you have dogs from breeds like Sheepdog, Miniature Poodle, or Cocker Spaniel, you should keep using ear drops at the top of the dog grooming list. We say so because these breeds are more susceptible to ear infections than others.
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However, if your pooch’s ears are already smelling, it would be better to consult a vet to check for any possible infection. In such a situation, ear drops might not prove very helpful for them.
That being said, cleaners that are ceruminolytic, antifungal, or medicinal can benefit your dog’s general ear health by keeping infections at bay and reducing wax accumulation.
How to choose the best ear drops for dogs?
After researching deep and wide, we have come up with the following tips that you can adopt while choosing an ideal ear drop for your doggo.
1. Vet approved
The foremost thing to consider while choosing an ear drop for your beloved pet is the one that the vet recommends, based on your dog’s needs. Also, buying commercially sold ear drops would be a safer option than using any DIY available on the internet. It’s crucial because the former would undergo comprehensive testing and have clearly labeled ingredients.
2. Check the ingredients
Always check the complete ingredient list before purchasing any ear drop for your dog. Never buy a product that does not have ingredients properly listed. A clean ingredient list would help you ensure that there isn’t anything in the product that might cause issues for your dog.
That said, avoid ear drops that have Tea Tree oil in them, as this element may irritate. However, you can go for additives like
- Hydrocortisone– helps in fighting itchiness
- Salicylic and lactic acids– act as antimicrobial for the ear
- Ketoconazole– good for antifungal treatment
3. Identify your dog’s needs
Remember that not all ear cleaners are good for all cleaning purposes. For example, some may be good as a wax cleaner, while others may better treat infections. Hence, talk to your veterinarian to better understand your dog’s current needs.
4. Liquid-based ear cleanser
Liquid ear cleaners are better than wipes since they go through the dog’s long ear canal, cleaning it better. Also, it is easier to administer than wipes, which would need persistently rubbing your dog’s ears, resulting in extra irritation. Furthermore, liquid cleaners are more effective at removing waxy muck.
Our Top Pick on Ear Drops for Dogs
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Infection Treatment | • Easy to administer • Prescription-grade formula • Suitable for dogs as well as puppies | |
 | Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner | • Good as a regular cleanser • Mild formula • It doesn't interfere with any ongoing ear medicine | |
 | ZYMOX Ear Cleanser | • No stinging sensation • Non- invasive formulation • Ideal for non-infected ears | |
 | Mighty Petz Dog Ear Cleaner Solution | • Contains aloe vera • Non- irritating fragrance • Pretty affordable | |
 | PetHonesty OTIC Dog Ear Cleaner & Ear Health Support | • Made from Veterinarian Strength Formula • Gentle on dogs' ears • Contains salicylic acid | |
 | VetWELL Dog Ear Cleaner Solution & Infection Treatment | • It can be used daily • No chemical scent • Helpful in fighting fungal, microbial, and yeast infections | |
 | Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution for Dogs and Cats | • Aids in acidification of the ear canal • Good to clean external ears • Aids in acidification of the ear canal | |
 | MISTER BEN'S Original Ear Cleaner | • Contains all-natural ingredients • 2-step cleaning assures better relief • Gentle and can be used regularly | |
 | Pet MD Veterinary Tris Flush Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner | • Non- stinging formula • Helps eliminate odor • Aids in combating wax build-up |
1. BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Cat & Dog Ear Infection Treatment
Curaseb Cat & Dog Ear Infection Treatment uses ketoconazole as the active component to treating infections, inflammation, redness, and itching. This is also a prescription-strength remedy for ear mites, infections, and unpleasant odors.
Although the product has a fragrance that overshadows foul odors, it may not be acceptable for all dogs—especially those with sensitive skin. Bexley Labs Curaseb Dog Ear Infection Treatment is a good dog ear drop remedy if your dog’s ears aren’t severely infected. This drop can also be applied after swimmings or baths.
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Pros
- Made in the USA
- Acts as an antifungal drop
- Suitable for dogs as well as puppies
- Easy to administer
- Prescription-grade formula
- Has aloe vera
Cons
- Not free from fragrance
- Don’t really work on already (severely) infected ears
- It may not be ideal for dogs with deep ear canals
2. Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
If you are looking for a daily ear cleanser, go for Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner. This treatment keeps your dog’s ears clean and odorless while also avoiding the development of wax and dirt. This product, however, will not help if your dog’s ears are sensitive and already have infections because it is only a daily ear cleaner. However, this remedy is excellent for dogs with clean and healthy ears that just need a little cleansing.
Pros
- Good as a regular cleanser
- Mild formula
- It doesn’t interfere with any ongoing ear medicine
Cons
- Not suitable for already infected ears
- It doesn’t fight infections
- Not value for the money
3. ZYMOX Ear Cleanser
ZYMOX Ear Cleanser is one of the most vet-recommended ear drops for dogs. It is a scientifically proven product that may be used to clear ear dirt. This drops’ gentle, non-toxic, and non-irritating formulation is excellent for non-infected ears. The product’s LP3 Enzyme System also aids in maintaining a fresh-smelling ear.
Pros
- Suitable for gentle ear cleaning
- Ideal for non-infected ears
- Non- invasive formulation
- No stinging sensation
- It’s gentle enough to use regularly.
Cons
- Not suitable for severe ear infections
4. Mighty Petz Dog Ear Cleaner Solution
Mighty Petz Dog Ear Cleaner’s 4-in-1 treatment fights irritation, dryness, pathogens, odor, swelling and also aids in the cleaning, drying, deodorizing, and acidification of the dog’s ears. It creates an atmosphere that keeps ear villains at bay.
Although this product is fragrant, the cucumber-melon scent is natural and free of perfumes that may cause skin irritation. However, the Mighty Petz Ear Cleaner does include propylene glycol, which may cause concern. Additionally, this drop contains alcohol, which may cause your dog’s skin to become dry.
Pros
- Pretty affordable
- Natural scent
- Non- irritating fragrance
- Contains aloe vera
- Four benefits in one bottle
- Made in the Federally Regulated Manufacturing Facility
Cons
- Contains alcohol
- Has propylene glycol
5. PetHonesty OTIC Dog Ear Cleaner & Ear Health Support
This ear drop with a cucumber melon aroma can be used to gently clean your dog’s ears and prevent odor and itching. Salicylic acid and benzoic acid are used in PetHonesty OTIC Dog Ear Cleaner & Ear Health Support to battle infections and wax build-up. In this product, salicylic acid is used as an antibacterial agent.
However, this product includes artificial substances that may irritate your dog’s skin. For example, the perfume used to deodorize your dog’s ears is made up of scents, which could be a problem. Furthermore, propylene glycol may have long-term health consequences.
Pros
- Contains aloe vera
- Gentle on dogs’ ears
- Contains salicylic acid
- Ideal for fighting infections and wax build-up
- Made from Veterinarian Strength Formula
Cons
- Contains fragrance
- Had additive like propylene glycol
6. VetWELL Dog Ear Cleaner Solution & Infection Treatment
VetWELL Dog Ear Cleaner Solution & Infection Treatment is another excellent wash available in the market. Ketoconazole and tris are ingredients in the solution that combat fungal, microbial, and yeast infections. The VetWELL ear cleanser is also great for people who can’t bear the scent of chemicals and don’t want to put anything synthetic in their dog’s ears.
You can’t go wrong with aromas like cucumber melon and sweet pea vanilla in this product. However, keep in mind that this drop contains alcohol, which may cause your dog’s skin to dry out. VetWELL also has a smell that may bother your dog’s ears, making it unsuitable for dogs with delicate skin.
Pros
- Contains aloe vera
- Has natural fragrance of cucumber melon and sweet pea vanilla
- It can be used daily
- Helpful in fighting fungal, microbial, and yeast infections
- No chemical scent
Cons
- Contains alcohol
- It contains fragrances that may irritate your dog’s skin
- It may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
- It may not be strong for severe ear infections.
7. Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution for Dogs and Cats
Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution for Dogs and Cats contains lactic acid and aloe vera. It is scientifically created to deodorize and clean the external ear canal. As a result, this drop aids in drying and acidifying the ear canal while still maintaining its softness. Also, it can be used daily to maintain a healthy ear environment. In addition, this ear cleaner is gentle enough to use when bathing or brushing your pet.
However, Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution contains alcohol, which may cause your dog’s skin to dry up if used for an extended period.
Pros
- Gentle to be used regularly
- Contains aloe vera
- Good to clean external ears
- Aids in acidification of the ear canal
Cons
- Contains alcohol
- It may not be useful to treat inner canal issues
8. MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Cleaner for Dogs Care Kit + Wipes
One of the most effective ear drops for itching, scratching, and head shaking is MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Cleaner. This solution is known to give your dog’s ears instant relief. The treatment is sold in a kit that includes one bottle of ear wash for morning use and one bottle of tonic for overnight use for added relief.
Though the entire package appears to be a bit pricey, you can rest assured that the ingredients utilized are all-natural and will provide mild and soothing relief. However, you should be aware that it doesn’t require pre-cleaning before using MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Cleaner. But the day and night regime may be difficult to maintain track of.
If your dog’s ears do not have a severe infection, you can clean them regularly using MISTER BEN’S Original Ear Cleaner.
Pros
- Contains all-natural ingredients
- 2-step cleaning assures better relief
- Gentle and can be used regularly
- It doesn’t require any pre-cleaning
Cons
- The day and night cleaning regime may be difficult to keep track of.
- A bit pricey
- Not ideal to be used for severe infections
9. Pet MD Veterinary Tris Flush Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner
Choose Pet MD Veterinary Tris Flush Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner if you want a non-stinging ear cleaner for your pet. It’s an over-the-counter cleaner that’s simple to use and economical, plus it contains antifungal and antibiotic ingredients to help clear any small infection your dog could have.
This solution not only removes unwanted foreign particles from your dog’s ears but also helps to restore the biological environment of your dog. So, no more worries about itchy, scaly, or sticky, odorous ear wax; follow the veterinarian’s instructions, and your pooch will be well!
Pros
- Non- stinging formula
- Helps eliminate odor
- Aids in combating wax build-up
- It comes with an easy-to-use nozzle
- Affordable
Cons
- Contains fragrance
Summary
To wrap up, we would like to state that the above article is for information purposes. We do not support prescribing any medication or medical advice related to dog-ear drops. It is strongly recommended to consult a vet before choosing any of the listed products above. Also, this is an inexhaustible list of products, and you can conduct your own studies to learn about these or any other ear drops not mentioned here.
Meet Madison Phillips, your compassionate guide to pet well-being. With experience from VCA Animal Hospitals and Laxton Vet Clinics Bellaire Inc. Madison honed her skills and embraced the balance of medical expertise and compassion, through her articles, she simplifies pet care, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced pet parent.