When you buy a product through a link on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn More.
The 5 Best Dog Ear Cleaners
See reviews now for the best dog ear cleaners! Cleaning your dog’s ears is an important part of keeping your pup healthy. But don’t grab a Q-Tip! Read on for the top 6 dog ear cleaner choices! Grooming your dog involves more than just frequent washing and brushing. Though many pet owners often forget, grooming should also include cleaning your dog’s ears.
While us humans use q-tips to keep our ears free of clogs, dogs don’t have that luxury! Do your dog’s ears need a good cleaning? Want to learn how to take good care of your dog’s ears? We have compiled the best ear cleaner for dogs reviews & ratings so you can find the right ear cleaning products for you.
In This Article
Best Choice: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner is the best dog ear cleaner because it can be used on dogs of all ages. It is a non-irritating formula and helps prevent ear infections from occurring.
The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs is a high-quality routine ear cleaner for your dog. The mild solution is alcohol-free and helps to prevent ear infections. To keep bacterial infections away, this solution uses salicylic acid. This ingredient is known for its anti-adhesive properties. It helps keep bacteria from attaching to the inside of the ear. Epi-Otic uses a neutral pH to keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy. We give Virbic Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs our exclusive FIVE STAR rating!
Pros
- Contains no chlorhexidine or alcohol
- Can be used on dogs of all ages
- Can be used for routine cleaning or in combination with other products
Cons
- Contains a strong smell
Premium Pick: Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution
Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution
The Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution is the best dog ear cleaner because it is gentle enough for regular use. When used regularly, it can prevent ear infections from occurring, plus it has a nice smell.
The Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution Ear Cleaning Solution is said to create the perfect environment for healthy ears. The formula is meant to clean and deodorize your dog’s ears. The solution also acidifies the ear canal. This helps to prevent wax and bacteria build-up. Active ingredients include water, aloe vera, lactic acid, glycerin, and propylene glycol. We give Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution our exclusive FIVE STAR rating.
Pros
- Cleans, dries, and deodorizes in one step
- Gentle enough for regular use
- Includes aloe to soften the skin
Cons
- Contains alcohol, which might cause irritation to some dogs
Best Value: Zymox Ear Cleaner with Bio-Active Enzymes
Zymox Ear Cleaner with Bio-Active Enzymes
The Zymox Ear Cleaner with Bio-Active Enzymes is the best ear cleaner for dogs because it includes no harsh chemicals. It is easy to use and recommended by vets.
Dogs ears are prone to infection and irritation. However, with Zymox Ear Cleaner, your dog’s ear health will remain at optimal levels. This ear cleaner is non-toxic and is a very mild solution. The ingredients are all natural and are unlikely to cause irritation. The ear cleaner uses enzymes to ensure the health of your dog’s ears. With constant use, your dog’s ears will remain soothed and clean. You can’t go wrong with this quality ear cleaner! We give Zymox Ear Cleaner for Dogs our exclusive THREE STAR rating!
Pros
- Non-toxic, no harsh chemicals and no cleaners
- Comes in 1-,2-,and 4-pack options
- Soothes ears during cleaning
Cons
- Might take a while to see results
Runner Up: TruDog Clear Me Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner
TruDog Clear Me Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner
The TruDog Clear Me Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner is the best ear cleaner for dogs because it is easy to use and contains natural ingredients. It is approved by veterinarians and can even aid in reducing anxiety and stress in dogs.
What is better than a dog ear cleaner created by a veterinarian? You can rest assured that the TruDog Clear Me Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner is high-quality! This ear cleaner is used to clean, dry and deodorize your dog’s ears. The solution is antibacterial and uses soothing ingredients such as aloe vera. It can also be used to heal the ear after an infection. The cleaner is gentle and can be used as often as needed. We give TruDog Clear Me Cat & Dog Ear Cleaner our exclusive FOUR STAR rating.
Pros
- Reduces ear odors
- Reduces existing ear infections while preventing new ones from occurring
- Includes all-natural ingredients
Cons
- Might cause allergic reactions in some dogs
- Toxic if it comes into contact with cats
Honorable Mention: NaturVet Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil
NaturVet Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil
The NaturVet Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil is the best ear cleaner for dogs because it is gentle enough to be used regularly. It contains natural ingredients, including tea tree oil, which is a natural disinfectant.
Tea tree oil is a prized ingredient in human health and skincare. NaturVet Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil uses all natural ingredients. While the solution is gentle, it is very effective. This dog ear cleaner can be used to clean the ear canal by dissolving ear wax. The wash can also remove any foreign debris in the ear. The solution can be purchased in baby powder and aloe scents for a soothing effect. We give NaturVet Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil for Dogs our exclusive FOUR STAR rating!
Pros
- Has a fresh baby-powder scent
- Gentle enough to be used regularly
- Contains natural ingredients and soothing aloe vera
Cons
- Contains tea tree oil, which might cause an allergic reaction in some dogs
Why Clean a Dog’s Ears?
Your dog’s ears are the prime location for all sorts of yucky things, which is why it’s so important to clean your dog’s ears. Ears are dark, deep, and moist. This makes them the ideal breeding ground for all sorts of germs and bacteria.
Many things can make your dog’s ears their home, including:
- Ear mites
- Bacteria
- Grass and dirt
- Wax and water build up
If any of these items sit in the ear for too long, they can cause an infection. So check your dog’s ears and check them often!
Is your dog constantly scratching at his ears? Does your dog shake his head a lot? Do your dog’s ears smell a bit off?
If so, odds are those ears need time with a good ear cleaner! Keep reading to learn more in-depth ear cleaning information.
Dog Ear Cleaning Dos & Don’ts
Cleaning your dog’s ears should start during puppyhood. The more often you clean your dog’s ears, the less complicated the process will be.
When cleaning your dog’s ears, it’s important to be gentle. Never use a q-tip to clean the ears. Instead, a cotton ball soaked in a dog ear cleaner solution is best. Gently use the cotton ball to remove any debris in and around the ear.
You can also clean your dog’s ears by filling them with a cleaning solution. The solution removes debris. With this method:
If possible, clean your dog’s ears at least once a week. Clean ears mean healthy ears!
When Dog Ear Cleaners Aren’t Enough
Even if you religiously clean your dog’s ears, infections can happen. Common signs of an ear infection include:
- Constant itching of the ears
- Shaking of the head
- Yellow, brown or bloody discharge
- Swelling and/or redness
- Scabs or crust inside of the ear
If any of these symptoms persist, it’s time to see a vet! Untreated ear infections can be serious, including the risk of deafness. Ear health matters!
Conclusion
An important part of keeping your dog healthy is using vitamins and supplements. However, these items aren’t inexpensive. If you want to take the best care of your dog without breaking the bank, we can help! If you want the best dog ear cleaner, we recommend you try the Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner. Make the investment and take care of your dog.
Top Dog Vitamins provides reviews on some of the most popular dog vitamins and supplements. From probiotics to multi-vitamins, we cover them all!