Tips for cleaning your dog's ears..

[MaryAnn]

Pam,

I too, also worked in the medical field and know the dangers of what should and should not be used. What I use is not a powder, as I agree that putting powder into an ear is not a good idea. What we all use and we all purchase at our Vet's office is....a liquid that we apply liberally into our dog's ear canal, then massage the base of the ear, and then allow the dog to shake their head. It is called "ALOECLENS" by Butler Animal Health Supply.

However, the dog's ears were healthy to begin with. Like Belleza mentioned above...if the dog's ears emits an odor...always consult your vet first. An odor and/or discharge could be a sign of an ear infection. Also true if your pet appears to be shaking his head a lot, as this can indicate a sign of an ear infection as well.

[psuek2007]

MaryAnne,
I'll see if I can find the ALOECLENS. We don't have any ear issues yet however I have learned by reading & other toy poodle owners... that they have hair that grows in their ear canals and it needs to be plucked out.... and their ears need constant cleaning.
Do you think I should start cleaning their ears now... at age 18 weeks (before problems arise?) - Their next vet visit isn't for two more weeks but I'll also talk to the vet.
I appreciate all the information you share. It is so greatly appreciated!
Pam

[MaryAnn]

You are very welcome Pam.....My Schnauzer goes to her private Schnauzer Groomer every 4-6 weeks, and she takes care of the hair removal in the ears. All I do regarding her ears is apply the ALOECLENS after I bathe her or after swimming.

Have you taken them for their first Grooming appointment yet? My dog's groomer had me wait until my dog was fully vaccinated.

Does your vet's office have a little store? if so, you should be able to buy this product or a similar one from them.

Another thing to consider is.....to have their anal glands expressed at least once a month. My Groomer (who is also a Breeder of Show Dogs) also does that.

When I take her to the Groomer....she gets the "Works"....we call it going to the "Doggy Spa".

If you decide to perform all the grooming yourself....please first consult a professional for assistance.

[psuek2007]

Have you taken them for their first Grooming appointment yet?

Another thing to consider is.....to have their anal glands expressed at least once a month. My Groomer (who is also a Breeder of Show Dogs) also does that.

When I take her to the Groomer....she gets the "Works"....we call it going to the "Doggy Spa".

If you decide to perform all the grooming yourself....please first consult a professional for assistance.

Maryann,

To answer your questions: Yes...the pups had just returned from the groomers when we went to see them (at time of purchase). That was a mth ago now. Their hair doesn't seem to be growing very fast and I am wondering if we should perhaps leave their hair longer for the winter mths here in NY. I brush them nightly. Regardless of whether or not they get trimmed right away, I will still be taking them to the groomers to do the other little things such as ear hairs and anal glands. I already trimmed their nails.
Pam