Dog ear infections can obviously make your pet miserable, but they can also be very frustrating for owners, who must often try one dog ear cleaner after another while attempting to remedy the problem.
There are a variety of questionable ear cleaners for dogs on the market, which are basically only good for separating you from your money – they’ll have very little impact on a dog ear infection.
But fortunately, there are a few quality over-the-counter ear cleaning solutions for dogs – five, specifically – that have proven very effective for treating and preventing a variety of different ear-related problems in dogs. It can be difficult to tell the good from the bad sometimes, which is why we have written this article.
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Below, we’ll discuss and review 5 of the best dog ear cleaners, explain a little bit about your dog’s ears and talk about the types of organisms that cause problems.
We’ll even explain a few natural ear cleaners for pets and discuss ways to care for your pet’s ears and prevent infections in the first place.
So keep reading if you are interested in the best dog ear cleaner, and also want to know other ways to care for your dogs’ overall ear health and prevent any bacterial infections or other ailments.
Best Dog Ear Cleaners
While it is always important to keep your vet in the loop when you are treating dog ear infections, the following are five of the best dog ear cleaning products that can help prevent and relieve many common ear problems in dogs.
Just be sure to let your vet know if you are using any of these products. With a vet’s approval, each of the following could prove to be a great ear cleaning solution for your dog.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Vet Organics EcoEars | • Typically resolves dog ear infections in 7 to 10 days • Made in US-based, FDA-approved facilities | |
 | Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with Hydrocortisone | • Hydrocortisone included helping reduce inflammation • Requires no pre-cleaning | |
 | Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner | • Kills microorganisms by virtue of a very low pH (2.2) • Suitable for dogs and cats of any age | |
 | Petpost Dog Ear Cleaner | • Manufactured by an eco-friendly company • Easy-application nozzle eliminates the mess created by some other ear solutions | |
 | Mister Ben's Original Ear Tonic for Dogs | • Backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee • Made with 100% cold-pressed aloe | |
 | VetWELL Ear Cleaner for Dogs and Cats | • Safe And Gentle Ear Cleanser with Aloe Vera • Eliminates Build Up of Wax |
#1. Vet Organics EcoEars
About: EcoEars dog ear cleaner is an all-natural ear cleaning solution that is designed to help relieve a variety of different symptoms that often accompany dog ear infections. Made without pharmaceuticals, harsh chemicals, hydrocortisone or antibiotics and backed by a money-back guarantee, EcoEars washes away pathogens to leave your dog’s ears clean and healthy.
So if you are looking for a way to clean your dog’s ears but are skeptical of giving your dog anything but all-natural products, this could be exactly what you are looking for.
Important Features:
- Typically resolves dog ear infections in 7 to 10 days
- Made with several natural botanicals, including rosemary, mullein leaf, and witch hazel
- Made in US-based, FDA-approved facilities
Customer Reviews: Most dog owners who’ve tried EcoEars absolutely rave about the product. Phrases like “amazing!” and “best product I’ve ever tried,” was used by some of the most pleased owners to describe their experiences. Most report that the product was effective for treating dog ear infections and that their dog’s ear flapping and pawing stopped very quickly.
Bottom Line: Owners who prefer natural, botanically based solutions will likely love EcoEars. It isn’t one of the cheapest treatments for dog ear infections available, but it is certainly one of the best-reviewed products on the market. It does contain alcohol, which some vets recommend avoiding, but it is hard to argue with the results most owners have enjoyed.
#2. Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with Hydrocortisone
Important Features:
- Hydrocortisone included helping reduce inflammation
- Effective against a broad range of microorganisms, including those most likely to afflict your dog
- Requires no pre-cleaning (in fact, pre-cleaning is discouraged by the manufacturer)
Customer Reviews: The vast majority of dog owners who tired ZymoxOtic Enzymatic Solution with Hydrocortisone were extremely pleased with the results. Most owners reported that the solution produced very rapid results; several dogs appeared to heal completely in as little as a week’s time.
Bottom Line: ZymoxOtic Enzymatic Solution with Hydrocortisone earned better reviews than any other ear infection treatment on the market. The solution appears to remove most of the offending organisms in your dog’s ears, and the hydrocortisone helps to reduce pain, irritation, and inflammation.
Note that you can also purchase ZymoxOtic Enzymatic Solution without Hydrocortisone too if that would better suit your dog’s needs. For example, some dogs should not be treated with corticosteroids, and they may not even be necessary for treating mild ear infections.
#3. Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
About: Epi-Otic is a non-irritating, keratolytic antiseptic, which is designed to help clean your dog’s ears and kill the microorganisms lurking inside. Because Epi-Otic does not contain alcohol (which can dry the delicate skin inside your dog’s ears), it can be used for routine ear cleaning as well as for the specific treatment of ear infections.
Important Features:
- Kills microorganisms by virtue of a very low pH (2.2)
- Contains neither alcohol nor chlorhexidine, which can both dry the ears
- Suitable for dogs and cats of any age
Customer Reviews: Epi-Otic received very good reviews from most owners who tried it. This includes owners who were seeking to treat ear infections in dogs as well as those who only use it for routine cleaning. Some owners did note that the dog ear cleaning solution has a mildly objectionable smell, but most found this to be only a minor problem. So it will depend on personal preference as to whether this is a big deal to you.
Bottom Line: Epi-Otic is one of the few ear cleaners for dogs that don’t contain ingredients that will likely lead to dry, irritated skin. Accordingly, it is always deserving of consideration, whether you are trying to help your dog clear an ear infection or you only need it as a preventative ear wash. Additionally, Epi-Otic is one of the most affordably priced dog ear cleaner products on the market.
#4. Petpost Dog Ear Cleaner
About: Petpost Dog Ear Cleaner is an all-natural dog product. It is a coconut-based cleaning solution that can help combat problems caused by excessive wax, yeast, and mites. Safe, gentle and backed by a 100% satisfaction-guarantee, Petpost Ear Cleaner is a low-risk option for dogs suffering from ear problems.
So if you are looking for an ear wash without worrying about harsh chemicals, this could be the product for you.
Important Features:
- Manufactured by an eco-friendly company
- Medication and irritant-free formula that won’t irritate your dog’s ears
- Easy-application nozzle eliminates the mess created by some other ear solutions
Customer Reviews: Most owners who tried Petpost Dog Ear Cleaner found that it helped reduce their dog’s troubling symptoms and that it helped keep their dog’s ears clean. It not only eliminated odors, but several owners noted that the solution itself had a pleasant smell. A few owners even noted that the instructional literature accompanying the product was well-designed and very helpful.
Bottom Line: Petpost Dog Ear Cleaner is another great option for owners who prefer all-natural solutions for their dog’s ear problems. It is priced comparably to most similar products, and it is gentle enough to be used as a long-term ear cleaning solution. Additionally, like other antibiotic-free ear cleaners, this product won’t cause problems with antibiotic resistance. Overall, this is a natural dog ear cleaner that has been very well received!
#5. Mister Ben’s Original Ear Tonic for Dogs
About: Mister Ben’s Original Ear Tonic for Dogs is an all-natural dog ear cleaner designed to not only treat your dog’s ear problems but to soothe your dog’s ears while the healing process occurs. Made from five different active ingredients – isopropyl alcohol, povidone-iodine, white vinegar, boric acid, and aloe – Mister Ben’s Organic Ear Tonic is effective and gentle on your dog’s ears.
Important Features:
- Typically works quickly, but it is safe for long-term use when treating stubborn infections
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Made in the USA
- Made with 100% cold-pressed aloe
Bottom Line: If you are looking for an all-natural, US-made ear treatment for your dog, Mister Ben’s Original Ear Tonic for Dogs deserves serious consideration. The tonic is easy to apply to your dog’s ears, and most customers who’ve tried it have reported fantastic results. Do note that because it contains alcohol, it isn’t good for dogs with open wounds (including flea bites) in their ears.
#6. VetWELL Ear Cleaner for Dogs and Cats
VetWELL is a known brand when it comes to essential pet products. Their ear cleaner is meant to rid any infection in your pet’s ear.
About: It is a veterinarian formulated product that helps to gently clean, deodorize and dry your dog’s ears. It is safe to use and is enriched with aloe vera for gentle care. It helps remove accumulated ear wax, fluids, debris etc, that could be a cause of irritation for your dog.
If your dog has been behaving off lately and has been trying to itch their ears then you need to give this product a try. A product like this can help you save a great deal of energy in trying to figure out what is wrong with your pet. And the comfort it will provide to your pet is unmatched.
Important Features:
- It is easy to use and can be applied directly to the ear canal.
- It is gentle and enriched with Aloe Vera.
- It doesn’t have odor of its own and won’t cause unnecessary irritation to your pet.
- Massaging it regularly to your dog’s ears can ensure healthy ears.
- It is recommended to apply it to ears twice weekly for better results.
Customer Reviews: Most dog owners who have used VetWELL products have vouched for their high quality. Most of them were recommended this product by their vet, and they say the results within 2-3 weeks. This product is equally loved by dog owners as well as cat owners.
Users found this product easy-to-use. Guidelines provided on the product are self-explanatory. It has helped many buyers with maintaining the ear health of their pets, especially after swimming. Some buyers introduced the habit of ear-cleansing as part of their daily routine as this product is gentle for everyday use.
Bottom Line: The popular belief has it that ear cleaning is a non-essential vanity procedure that is not worth time and money. But, in fact, vets highly recommend cleaning pet’s ears regularly to prevent any infection or dirt from accumulating there.
What Causes Dog Ear Infections?
Dog ear infections can occur for a variety of reasons, including those discussed below:
- Bacteria – Bacteria are the most common culprit behind dog ear infections. Some of the most common strains responsible for ear infections include Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Fungi – Malasseziapachydermatis is a ubiquitous yeast, which is commonly present in the ears of healthy dogs. However, if the conditions in your dog’s ears change, these yeasts can exhibit explosive population growth, which can irritate and inflame your dog’s ears. Note that although it is rare, Malasseziapachydermatis is occasionally responsible for serious illnesses in humans.
- Mites – Dog ear mites, known to biologists as Otodectescynotis, are tiny eight-legged arachnids that can infect dog ears and cause extreme irritation. They are normally most common in puppies, who lack the robust immune systems that adult dogs possess. However, they can and occasionally do cause problems for older dogs too.
Note that the term “infection” implies a biological problem, and the term is usually applied to bacterial, viral or fungal invaders (mites infest, rather than infect, but this is a subtle distinction that doesn’t matter for our purposes here). Veterinarians usually sidestep this issue by referring to these types of problems as otitis externa, which means outer (outside the eardrum) ear inflammation.
However, while bacteria and fungi are the primary problems associated with most cases of dog ear infections, these organisms may only colonize your dog’s ear in response to a trauma of some sort.
The following two causes are examples of this type of trauma:
- Injury: The damage caused by ear injuries often leads to broken or bruised skin, and it can even lead to a ruptured eardrum. Any such trauma can – and often does – leave the ear vulnerable to pathogenic bacteria or fungi.
- Foreign Bodies: If your dog gets something wedged down in his ear canal, it can lead to an infection. Foreign body obstructions often occur in dogs who live with small children (who may deliberately, if not maliciously) put something into the dog’s ear, but they can also occur when owners clean their dog’s ears inappropriately. Insects can also cause ear obstructions if they enter the ear canal and find themselves unable to escape.
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when it comes to your dog’s ear health and the prevention of ailments. Dogs are susceptible to many ear problems, and sometimes the best solution is to ensure that you clean your dogs’ ears effectively.
What are Some Common Dog Ear Infection Symptoms?
Dog ear infections can cause a number of different symptoms in dogs, ranging from the intuitive to the bizarre. Knowing how to identify these symptoms is crucial to ensure that you get your dog the help it needs. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of dog ear infections include:
- Pawing at one or both ears
- Rubbing side of the head on the ground
- Flapping the ears
- Ear redness
- Bad ear odor
- Ear discharge
- Head shaking
- Head tilting
- Head swinging
- Facial paralysis
- Excessive blinking
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or eating
- Whole-body leaning
- Poor balance
- Unexplained falls not associated with general canine clumsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Typically, the symptoms focused around the ear – discharge, inflammation, and pawing – are most common in mild dog ear infections, while systemic symptoms, such as head swinging or poor balance, can indicate a more serious problem.
Ear problems are especially common if your dog is a member of the following breeds. So be sure to pay special attention:
- Shar-Peis
- Setters (both Irish and English)
- Basset hounds (and most other hound dogs)
- Maltese
- Labrador retrievers (and most other retrievers)
When Should You See Your Vet About a Dog Ear Infection?
Always use your best judgment when trying to decide whether or not to visit the veterinarian, but it is always wise to err on the side of caution when discussing ear problems. Left untreated, ear infections in dogs can cause serious, long-term health problems, so it is wise to get your vet on board early in the process.
Additionally, it is important to see your vet not only when you think there might be a problem, but also to pick an ear cleaning routine that will best prevent that problem in the first place. It is not advised to use a product on your dog’s ears without first consulting a professional.
Additionally, you’ll need your vet to help confirm that your dog is, in fact, suffering from an ear infection, and not, for example, a tumor. Your vet will also be able to identify the cause of your dog’s ear infection, which will be important for successful treatment, and prescribe pain medication, to help alleviate your pet’s suffering.
While some owners may feel comfortable treating dogs with recurring ear infections at home, it is always important to contact your vet if your dog’s symptoms worsen, or your dog begins demonstrating symptoms of systemic involvement, such as incoordination or facial paralysis. The problem could be a lot more serious than you think it is, and it is simply not worth the risk. As with many issues with your dog, it is better safe than sorry.
What to Expect at the Vet?
Your vet will likely begin by taking a detailed history of your pet and its symptoms. He or she will likely ask about the symptoms your dog is exhibiting, as well as the duration of the problem and any treatments you’ve already tried.
Then, your vet will move on to a physical examination. This will begin with a visual examination of the ear (although your vet may first investigate the relative amount of pain your dog is in – and sedation may be required first). Your vet may use a tool called an otoscope to get a better look inside your dog’s ear. Don’t worry, the otoscope won’t hurt your dog at all.
Your vet may also take cultures or samples from your dog’s ears for laboratory analysis. It may also be necessary to perform a neurological exam or take x-rays to determine if the problem has caused any problems deeper in your dog’s head.
Your vet will likely prescribe a pain medication to help your dog feel better, as well as an antibiotic or antifungal medication if the tests point to a bacterial or fungal infection. Steroids may also be prescribed to help reduce inflammation in the ear, and your vet may recommend altering your ear-cleaning techniques or using a prescription-strength dog ear cleansing solution.
As you can see, there are simply too many variables to address the problem on your own. If you think your dog is in pain or uncomfortable, it is always best to visit a vet first.
The problem could be as simple as sensitive ears. But it is often not worth the risk. At the very least, even if there is nothing wrong with your dog, your vet could provide you with an insight into what to look for and how to prevent possible problems in the future.
Preventing Ear Infections in Dogs
One of the most important things you can do to avoid a dog ear infection is to keep your dog’s ears clean and – most importantly – dry. Many of the microorganisms that infect dog ears are only able to do so when the dog’s ears stay damp, so simply drying your dog’s ears after baths or dips in the local pond will help immensely. Sometimes your dog can’t fully dry themselves just by shaking off.
You’ll also want to ensure that your dog and his bedding stay clean. The fewer bacteria and fungi present in his environment, the less likely he is to be troubled by them. So, be sure to wash your dog’s bed frequently and give him a bath once or twice per month (again, make sure you dry his ears).
Strict hygiene is especially important for puppies, who are more susceptible to mites than adults are. But in addition to keeping your puppy clean, you’ll also want to keep him away from other pets (including cats).
Ear mites are incredibly contagious, and they are often transferred through casual contact. So with puppies, be very careful about who and what you expose them to. Recognize that they are much more vulnerable at this young age, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution.
You’ll also want to be careful to avoid feeding your dog foods that may exacerbate food allergies or dry out his skin. Either of these things can directly lead to itching, and they can also promote the conditions in which pathogenic bacteria and fungi can thrive.
To help promote good microbial skin flora, some owners like to give their dog a good probiotic supplement, but it is not yet clear whether this will have any appreciable effect on your dog’s health or not.
As you can see, there are many factors to consider in preventing ear ailments and maintaining good ear health. It is often best to seek the aid of a veterinarian who will help you decide a good routine for keeping your dog’s ears healthy and clean. Your dog is unique, and their needs vary from other dogs, but a proper routine can help make it so you aren’t overwhelmed.
Home Remedies for Dog Ear Infections
In addition to the products recommended above, there are a variety of homemade remedies for dog ear infections that many owners have found effective. Although natural doesn’t always mean harmless, most of the strategies and substances discussed below are safe and unlikely to cause your dog any problems.
However, as always, you’ll want to discuss any treatment strategy with your vet before proceeding.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is not only an effective, naturally occurring antibiotic liquid, it also has anti-fungal properties. Accordingly, it is a great option for those looking to treat their dog’s ear infection naturally. In fact, it is the active ingredient in several commercially produced dog ear cleaner remedies.
Simply pour a little lukewarm coconut oil into your dog’s ears and rub it around with a gauze pad. You can do so twice or thrice daily, and most owners can expect to see results in about a week.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps to lower the pH in your dog’s ear. This makes life tough for pathogenic bacteria and fungi, and it usually leads to their eradication. Then, beneficial bacteria will be able to recolonize your dog’s ear and prevent a recurrence.
To use apple cider vinegar, make a dilute solution by mixing it with an equal amount of water. Then, swab the solution around your dog’s ears with a piece of clean gauze. Repeat once every day until your dog’s ears heal.
3. Mullein
Mullein is a naturally occurring herb, which is used in a few over-the-counter dog ear cleaner medicines. However, you can make your own version of these medications by chopping up some fresh or dried mullein, mixing it in with some olive oil and allowing it to soak for a few weeks.
The solution can then be swabbed onto your dog’s ears or applied with an eyedropper. Apply once per day until your dog’s symptoms improve.
Summing Up the Best Ear Cleaner for Dogs
We hope that our list of the best dog ear cleaners was helpful. It is important to keep in mind that while this is our list, the best ear cleaner for you will depend on the needs of your dog. So it is important to remember to consult with your vet to decide which product will truly work best for your dog.
Ear cleaners are made with different ingredients and often made to suit different purposes, so do your research first, and you will be rewarded with a happier, healthier dog!
Has your dog ever had an ear infection? How did you care for it? Did you find a dog ear cleaner or another remedy that was especially helpful? We’d love to hear all about your experiences.
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Dr. Lillian is a D.V.M. passionate about promoting awareness of dogs. She shares her expertise through her blogs on canineweekly.com and provides animal care services, including internal medicine, dermatology, and emergency care. Dr. Lillian is committed to contributing to animal welfare.