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Top 10 Best Dog Ear Cleaner Of 2020

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Best Dog Ear CleanerWe, as people, tend to forget about such important things as proper health care when it comes to our daily routine, set aside, taking adequate attention when it comes to our pets. Yet, they are in a constant need not only for our love and affection but also for checking their health. Keeping your dog clean and sound is your first responsibility as a companion. 

One of such often neglected things to do is to clean your dog’s ears properly. It’s essential to check and compare the most popular options to select and find the best dog ear cleaner. To maintain a long and happy life of your dog, you need to make sure that his sight and hearing remain strong. To achieve it, you need to control and maintain the health and hygiene of your pet’s ears.

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner

Our Top Choice: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner

This ear cleaner may be use as daily routine cleaner or as prior to administration of other ear preparation. Formula is alcohol free do not contain chlorhexidine and PH is low. This is the best safe option to clear your dog’s ears.

Comparison Table

Features:
Product Information
Our Rating:
Buy from:
Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
  • Safe free of alcohol formula
  • Vet-approved treatment for a dog of any age
  • Soothing effects that calm down irritations
  • Can be used for routine
  • Affordable price
  • Brand Name - Virbac
  • Volume - 8 Oz
  • Form - Liquid
  • Price - $$
5
Pet MD - Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes
Pet MD - Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes
  • Alcohol-free pads with nice ingredients that smoothen the skin
  • Fully eliminates unpleasant odors
  • Do not include harsh chemicals
  • Brand Name - Pet MD
  • Volume - 100 Count
  • Form - Wipes
  • Price - $$
4.9
Burts Bees Ear Cleaner with Peppermint
Burts Bees Ear Cleaner with Peppermint
  • Nice smell of peppermint
  • Alcohol-free formula
  • Eases the irritation or itchiness
  • Brand Name - Burt's Bees for Pets
  • Volume - 4 Oz
  • Form - Liquid
  • Price - $
4.6
VetWELL Cat and Dog Ear Cleaner
VetWELL Cat and Dog Ear Cleaner
  • Can be used daily
  • Prevents the risk of yeast or infections
  • Addictive melon smell
  • Brand Name - VetWELL
  • Volume - 8 Oz
  • Form - Liquid
  • Price - $$
4.8
4-in-1 Dog Ear Cleaner
4-in-1 Dog Ear Cleaner
  • Balance control to decrease the risk of infection
  • Reduces all smells
  • Reasonable price of the product
  • Brand Name - Mighty Petz
  • Volume - 8 Oz
  • Form - Liquid
  • Price - $$
4.8

Do I Need To Obtain a Dog Ear Cleaner?

So why do you make sure that you always have the best dog ear cleaner at your house? Over-active dogs, who adore spending most of the day time outside jogging around and exploring all the bushes in the area, need extra care.

 

Not only their paws and fur can get dusty and muddy, but also their ears. And the ears are the sensitive area where all the infections can be developed, causing a lot of physical pain for your dog. Furthermore, it becomes a pain in the neck for you to deal with vets and treating more serious illnesses than dirty ears.

 

Cleaning of the Dog EarFeatures To Pay Attention To When Searching for a Cleanser

What is essential to know before purchasing the dog cleaner? There is a tempting desire not to delve into the depths of information about types of features, and grab the first over the counter dog ear cleaner you see in the recommended on online store. But If you’re reading the article, it means that you’re already the careful and mindful dog’s companion and want to get the best dog ear cleaner.

 

  1. The cleanser must be appropriate for daily use. Make sure that it’s mentioned on the packaging. If not, it probably has more durable components with anti-inflammatory effects, and you will probably need an extra cleanser for daily use.
  2. Cleanser can come in different forms, such as droplets, lotions, or pads. They all have their perks, and it only depends on you which one to get. The most common cleaner is a lotion that you drop into the air and massage into the ear to maintain a deep cleaning. 
  3. Look for safe and gentle ingredients in the composition of the cleaner. The best ones usually do not use chemicals or alcohol that can irritate the skin. Yet, the components must be antibacterial.
  4. The cleanser must eliminate properly the wax, dirt from the ear area without burning or irritating aftereffects. 
  5. Odor. A smell can be a strong reason to prefer one treatment to another. Some of the cleansers can leave a strong or unpleasant smell both for you and for your dog.

Top 10 Items According to Their Formula, Ingredients, And Effectiveness

Not all the cleaners are the same. Although there are a lot of high-quality vet-approved treatments for your dog, it’s up to you which one to select according to its features. Some of the elements can become a real reason to choose only specific treatment. Hence, the best dog ear cleaner will combine all the best features, such as effectiveness and odor.

We believe that after all these descriptions, you will be able to select a leash that will not bring harm to either you or your pup and decide on the right model to buy. Below is a list of leashes that are available on the market for dog owners to choose from.

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear CleanerProduct Information

Brand Name – Virbac
Volume – 8 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

Vibrac can easily top the list of the best dog ear cleaner nominations in terms of the composition. Vibrac is a clement and nonalcoholic cure that will be appropriate for the tender and vulnerable skin of a four-legged friend’s ear area. On the contrary to most liquids, it does not include nor alcohol nor chlorhexidine, which are common attributes in a cleanser’s formula.

Features:

  • Nonalcoholic, natural components safely clean the sensitive skin.
  • Low pH level that prevents skin from over-drying.
  • Soothing effect while reducing the wax or cellular debris.
  • After applying, the risk to get inflammatory disease gets significantly lower.
  • Not only the vet recommended dog ear cleaner but also involved in the daily vet’s practice.

Pros

  • Safe free of alcohol formula
  • Vet-approved treatment for a dog of any age
  • Soothing effects that calm down irritations
  • Can be used for routine
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Contains 2% salicylic acid that can cause allergy

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Pet MD - Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes - Otic Cleanser for Dogs to Stop ItchingProduct Information

Brand Name – Pet MD
Volume – 100 Count
Form – Wipes
Price – $$

Pet MD is widely recognized for its lovely scent and creamy texture. It can be oftentimes found at the top of best dog ear cleaner reviews. It is the number one treatment for sponging out dirt, wax, or reducing irritation.

Pads are created, excluding any severe synthetic from the formula, so sensitive ear area will remain safe and won’t get red when you apply it. On the contrary, Eucalyptus has properties of smoothing and anti-drying effect on pet’s skin. It’s a vet-endorsed method to use to lessen the risk of soreness or fungal ailments.

Features:

  • Natural components that allow using it daily;
  • Easy-to-apply comfortable disposable ear wipes;
  • Appropriate for older than 12 weeks’ puppies;
  • Eliminates unpleasant scents.

Pros

  • Alcohol-free pads with nice ingredients that smoothen the skin
  • Fully eliminates unpleasant odors
  • Do not include harsh chemicals

Cons

  • Not suitable for the dogs of small breeds or puppies

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Burt's Bees Ear Cleaner with Peppermint & Witch HazelProduct Information

Brand Name – Burt’s Bees for Pets
Volume – 4 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $

Price and quality are things that are in perfect balance when it comes to this product. It’s the best natural dog ear cleaner that can be proud of its bottle package that simplifies the application. The liquid can be squeezed inside the ear of any size.

Hazel helps to remove excessive wax while peppermint eliminates discomfort. Also, neatly composition of ingredients enhances the sufficient work of the cleaner without alcohol, sulfates, or severe synthetic; the treatment yet proves to be efficient.

Features:

  • No alcohol sulfates or colorants that can potentially break skin cells;
  • Simple to use the bottle to ensure comfortable and quick applying;
  • Free of fragrances or strong smell to irritate you or your dog.

Pros

  • Nice smell of peppermint
  • Alcohol-free formula
  • Eases the irritation or itchiness

Cons

  • The bottle may have a small hole, and droplets come out slowly

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VetWELL Cat and Dog Ear Cleaner - Otic Rinse for Infections and Controlling YeastProduct Information

Brand Name – VetWELL
Volume – 8 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

VetWell is crafted and produced under the supervision of numerous vets, and usually used during infection treatment. The risk-free components and soft formula allow us to use the medicine every day; that is why in best dog ear cleaner reviews, you will find only positive feedback.

You may be sure about the quality of the medicine as it was composed and formulated by vets. It will help you reduce the itching or irritation. It also purifies and acidifies the ear canal, removing a build-up of ear wax and dirt.

Features:

  • Great for using for floppy-eared dogs;
  • High-quality components and Aloe Vera provide gentle care of ear;
  • Slows-down the build-up of wax.

Pros

  • Can be used daily
  • Prevents the risk of yeast or infections
  • Addictive melon smell

Cons

  • The water-like liquid may be irritating for your dog

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4-in-1 Dog Ear Cleaner – Vet Formulated Cleansing SolutionProduct Information

Brand Name – Mighty Petz
Volume – 8 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

A complex treatment focuses on several tasks to maintain the cleanness and health of your dog’s ears. Most of the customers who tried this treatment fall in love with its delicate melon smell. It aids in reducing vet visits and helps to take care of inflammation-prone ears. It helps to purify, disinfect, and protect the ears from any bacteria. Aloe Vera is an excellent treatment for dry and sensitive skin.

Features:

  • Suitable for any breed and size of the dog;
  • It helps to remove bad scents and debris;
  • A pleasant smell of melon and cucumber.

Pros

  • Balance control to decrease the risk of infection
  • Reduces all smells
  • Reasonable price of the product

Cons

  • Alcohol is listed as one of the ingredients

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Nutri-Vet Ear Cleanse for DogsProduct Information

Brand Name – Nutri-Vet
Volume – 8 Ounces
Form – Liquid
Price – $

This is a tremendous vet-chosen cleanser for the gentle treatment of dog ears. It helps to get rid of wax or dirt and disinfect your pet’s ears. All ingredients are secure, gentle but proven as very efficient in rinsing and anti-inflammatory causes. It puts an end to any type of dust and wax, and you will see the results right after the first use of the cure. It can also be applied to ward off eczema and some common fungal infections.

Features:

  • Appropriately and effectively purifies the ear area;
  • Formulated and tested by vets;
  • Rinse and delete all wax preventing inflammations.

Pros

  • Clean and fresh odor
  • Clears up the wax swiftly
  • Gentle for puppies

Cons

  • Short term effectiveness

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Vet's Best Ear Relief Wash Cleaner for DogsProduct Information

Brand Name – Vet’s Best
Volume – 16 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

Potent and quick-to -work remedy for your puppy against inflammation as it ensures an immediate ache relief. The formula consists of chamomile, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. It takes a professional approach to inflammation prevention and skincare, resulting in excellent outcomes. According to most dog ear cleaner reviews, your dog will not experience any more severe itching or scratching.

Features:

  • No risk of applying it every day.
  • Assists in cleaning efficiently, reducing the unpleasant smell.
  • Takes extra skincare smoothing the ear area and decreasing itching and irritations.

Pros

  • Gifts a subtle herbal odor
  • Can be used daily
  • Natural components, eco-friendly skincare

Cons

  • Can be hard to apply

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Pet King Brands Zymox Ear CleanserProduct Information

Brand Name – PET KING BRANDS
Volume – 4 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$$

Having natural-based ingredients in its composition, this is a friendly and careful treatment for dog’s ears. It provides high-level purifying without using harsh chemicals. On the contrary, the remedy is crafted using bio-active enzymes, which is a careful approach in reducing the risk of irritating even the most sensitive puppies. According to the dog ear cleaner reviews, it’s pleasant to apply, has no scent, and dogs tolerate it well, even those who can’t stand eardrops.

Features:

  • Gentle care without using chemicals.
  • Bio-active enzymes to prevent from possible inflammations.

Pros

  • No-trace of bad scent
  • Non-toxic components
  • Provides strong microbe control

Cons

  • Don’t cure yeast infections

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Pet MD Otic Clean Dog Ear Cleaner for Cats and DogsProduct Information

Brand Name – Pet MD
Volume – 8 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

Providing pleasant smell and healthy ears, this cleanser is a usual recommendation from a majority of vets. It also contains Aloe Vera for gentle care of sensitive skin. It doesn’t irritate or burn the surface but only gives a crystal-clear ear area, eliminating wax and dirt. The aseptic leaves a lovely smell of Aloe Vera, but at the same time, clarifies, acidifies, and creates a protection against mycobacteria.

Features:

  • Cures and wipes out the ears in a timely manner;
  • Provides gentle care of sensitive ears;
  • It’s also appropriate for puppies and small breeds.

Pros

  • Effective against infections
  • Nice appealing smell
  • Can be used to treat puppies

Cons

  • Price is higher than average

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Pet MD Veterinary Tris Flush Cat & Dog Ear CleanerProduct Information

Brand Name – Pet MD
Volume – 12 Oz
Form – Liquid
Price – $$

Pet MD proposes an advanced method to treat the plugged ear or build-up wax effectively. The antifungal and antibacterial effect is made by adding a crucial component Ketoconazole. Ketoconazole is a tremendous soft chemical that can be summed up to the formula to fight against bacteria. Dog ear cleaner solution is simple to apply. It will help to provide a quick and effective polishing procedure for your puppy.

Features:

  • Removes itchy irritations attacking the root cause of inflammations.
  • Ketoconazole in the components helps to ease and cure yeast infection.
  • Provides a quick and prolonged antibacterial effect.

Pros

  • Gives a simple usage of drops
  • Effectively treats infections
  • Calms down irritations and redness

Cons

  • Do not control mites as it claims

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Best Ingredients to Search in The Composition Of Dog’s Ear Cleaner

There is no more important factor in selecting medical treatment as its ingredients. First and foremost, the best dog ear cleaner must be sufficient but do not include anything that has a possible side-effect that can harm your dog’s health. It applies to harsh chemicals, alcohol, etc. The best choice will be a hygienic lotion with enzymes, as it will be a smooth and soft method to clear the ears. It usually consists of propylene glycol, emulsifier (Cremophor EL), salicylic acid, and additional natural ingredients to treat the ear such as calendula or eucalyptus oil.

Good Cleanser Will Have a Defined Vet-Approved Formula

Dog ear cleaner solution should be soft but practical simultaneously. With a proper formula, the cleaner will help to dissolve earwax and dirt intensively, thereby achieve an effective reduction in the number of bacteria and fungi in the external auditory canal. Additional components must possess antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effects. And natural ingredients will care about the sensitive skin and provide a pleasant odor.

Dog Ear CleaningHow To Choose Between Ear Wipes vs. Liquid Ear Cleaners?

Using ear wipes is an excellent solution for high-quality cleaning of the outside of the ear canal of dogs, cats, and other pets. Excessive ear wax can irritate the auricle and create an environment conducive to the development of various infections. Wipes will help to clean the outer ear. 

On the other hand, ear wipes are more suitable for big-sized or big-eared dogs. If the ears are small, it will be hard to get to the inside of the ear where a lot of built-up wax is located. It’s better to use a liquid ear cleaner to dissolve that wax and prevent inflammation.

Why Are Droplets So Popular On The Market?

Droplets are another treatment that will simplify the process of ear cleaning. It quickly dissolves unpleasant earwax accumulated in the ear canal, getting in the deeper levels of the ear. Smooth droplets help to provide:

  • care and cleanliness reliably and quickly
  • fast and reliable cleaning of the inner ear.
  • promotes animal hygiene

Questions You May Have When Your Vet Prescribed an Ear Cleanser

Ear cleaning is a preventive method to keep the ears healthy and also helps to catch the infection in the early stages and avoid more painful aftereffects. If you’ve got questions regarding the topic, here are some facts to help you get the topic right.

Why do I need to use an ear cleaner? What is that?

The cleanser is a simple preventative treatment that helps clean the skin from dirt, microorganisms, and wax. Using it, you will ensure clean ears. If you avoid this routine, your pet’s ears can be plugged, and a lot of infections can develop and irritate your dog in the future. You’ll need to visit a pet and waste a lot of money for more severe treatment. 

Tips For Using Ear Cleaner

It depends on the form of the cleanser. If it’s a lotion, you need to wet the cotton pad with it and put it on the open area of the ear. Then, gently massage the listener for the lotion to go deeper in the ear and smooth and remove the excess wax. If it’s a pad, you do not need an extra cotton pad. Just place it on the ear and rub gently it. It may be an unpleasant experience for your dog, so calm him down and cheer up with your happy attitude. 

Should I Clean the Dog's Ears Every Day?Should I Clean the Dog’s Ears Every Day?

It depends on your dog. In general, you need to clean the pup’s ears at least once per week. If the pet is prone to infections or extra active outside, you need to consider to use the cleanser every other day but not too often to avoid skin irritation. On some occasions, the vet can recommend using a cleaner on a daily basis during the treatment of an infection. But most of the dogs need to be cleaned once a week. 

Is it OK If my dog’s ears stink?

A yeasty odor usually accompanies inflammatory infections. If your pet’s ears smell bad, it’s a first sign of the virus, so be sure to contact the vet as quickly as possible. 

Simple Rules to Keep The Ears Clean and Healthy 

Firstly, be sure to clean the dog’s ears regularly. Secondly, check whether the dog scratches the skin or if the ears are getting red. If yes, visit a vet. Avoid using harsh treatments with a high content of alcohol or strong chemicals. On the contrary, do not overuse the cleanser as it may lead to ears irritation. Seek for a vet for a prescription or recommendations if you have any doubts, as self-treatment can always worsen the situation.

 

Step-By-Step For Using an Ear-Cleaner

  1. Get a vet-approved ear cleaner. Make sure it’s safe to use as often as you intend to. If the dog has an ear infection, you need first get a consultation from the pet. Then, you receive medication and instruction on how and how often the cleanser is required in order to be used.
  2. Be sure to clean the ears during a pet’s bath. 
  3. Squeeze the lotion or drip a few drops of the cleanser into the ear canal. 
  4. Your dog can overreact as the ear area is sensitive to any water. So fix the pet’s head in your hands.
  5. Gently massage the ear using a pad to let it dip into the ear. 
  6. Let the dog shake his head afterward.
  7. After that, wipe gently inside and outside of the ear flap to clear the excess wax and dirt. 
  8. Keep wiping until the cotton pads you use do not absorb a speck of dirt anymore.

Do My Dog Has an Ear Infection? – Learning How To Tell

The behavior of your pup usually gives clues if there is an issue. The ear area can get reddish. That’s an alarming sign that the listener can be inflamed. That is why cleaning ears are also beneficial when it comes to a regular health check. You may detect more quickly if there are any changes and provide prompt help. Also, if your dog is usually calm during ear swabbing but starts to act up during the procedure, it’s a sign of probable infection. Always check your dog if he shows irritation or discomfort as it usually signals the health troubles.

Why It’s Vital to Make Sure That Your Dog’s Ears are Disinfected?

As mentioned above, constant routing of cleansing your dog is beneficial in more than one way. It prevents any inflammations, helps to keep yourself up-to-date regarding the pet’s health, reducing the discomfort from your puppy’s life. Now, you do not need to pay for a pricy vets’ visit and save a budget.

What Is Better for My Pup? – Liquid vs. Wipe Ear Cleaners

Although wipe ear cleansers are much more comfortable for use, there are some benefits in sticking to a liquid cleaner. Wipe cleaner can be soaked in an extensive liquid and be too wet, while you control the amount of treatment used in a liquid. Besides, the fluid can consist of more active components and be more effective in an infection’s treatment, diving into the ear of smaller sizes. Wipe ear cleanser is comfier for use as a prevention treatment on a daily basis for doggies with a big ear. In best dog ear cleaner reviews, you may find mixed feedback due to the differences in cure and application methods.

Is There Any DIY Dog Ear Disinfection Solutions?

You may find a lot of DIY on how to make an ear cleaner yourself. But if you’re not a professional, you may use improper ingredients or use them in wrong proportions causing more harm than a treat. So do not use hydrogen peroxide or vinegar to treat your dog’s ear as it can be dangerous and irritate or damage skin cells. The tissue of the ear is very soft and sensitive, so aggressive components or chemicals can cause burns, irritations, or damages of the ear itself. If you don’t want to use a chemical-based cleaner, pick one among natural treatments. The list presents some of the best natural dog ear cleaner options for you.

Cleaning of The Dog EarDisinfect and Take Care of Your Dog’s Health

All of the mentioned products are good for your dog; hence they’re vet-approved and well-composed treatments. They do have mild differences. You can always pick the treatment that is better in terms of odor, components, or form.

Be sure to test both liquid and pads to select the one that more suitable for you and your dog. Out top pic is Vibrac, as its composition of mild ingredients that carefully removes the dirt and prevents from future risks of getting inflammation. The lotion is not only recommended by vets but also is commonly used in the daily vet’s practice. The liquid will be suitable for daily and weekly usage for dogs of any size and ear form.

Need more interesting stuff to care for your dog? Read about the best dog hair dryer and groom your mutt on your own.

Images credits: Amazon.com

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Author

Max Gordon

Dr. Gordon has been a contributor to a range of pet media since his study at Drexel University in Philadelphia. He does not miss a chance to do in-depth research backed by his own examinations. Along with writing his own pieces, Dr. Gordon does fact-checking of the articles.

View all posts by Max Gordon | DogsRecommend.com