How To Get Water Out Of A Dogs Ear

When dogs swim or bathe, water can get trapped in their ears, causing discomfort and even infections. If you notice your dog shaking its head, scratching its ears, or tilting its head to one side, it may have water in its ear canal. While some dogs can shake out the water naturally, others may need some help from their owners. In this article, we will explore various methods of getting water out of a dog’s ear safely and effectively.

Understanding the anatomy of a dog’s ear

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s first understand the structure of a dog’s ear. Unlike humans who have straight ear canals that lead to the eardrum, dogs have L-shaped ear canals that go down and then up towards the eardrum. This shape helps dogs amplify sound and locate the source of noises better than us but also makes their ears prone to trapping debris and moisture.

Additionally, dogs have more hair and wax glands in their ears than humans, which can accumulate over time and create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your dog’s ears clean and dry regularly to prevent infections and other ear problems.

Signs of water in a dog’s ear

As mentioned earlier, if your dog has water in its ear, it may display some symptoms such as:

– Shaking its head vigorously
– Scratching or pawing at its ears
– Tilting its head to one side
– Rubbing its head against furniture or carpet
– Whining or whimpering when touched near the ears
– Redness, swelling, discharge, or odor in the ears

If you see any of these signs, don’t ignore them as they could indicate more than just water in your dog’s ear. Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect an infection or injury.

Methods to get water out of a dog’s ear

Now that we know why and how water gets stuck in a dog’s ear, let’s look at some ways to remove it safely and comfortably for your furry friend.

1. Gravity

One of the simplest and most natural methods to get water out of a dog’s ear is to use gravity. Gently hold your dog’s head with one hand and tilt it towards the affected ear, so that the water can flow out by itself. You can also lightly massage the base of the ear to help loosen the water.

It’s crucial not to use force, cotton swabs, or any sharp objects inside your dog’s ear, as you could damage its delicate eardrum or push the water further into the canal.

2. Towel-drying

Another easy way to get water out of a dog’s ear is to dab it gently with a dry towel or cloth. Make sure the towel is soft and clean, and avoid rubbing or pushing too hard on the ear.

You can also use a hairdryer on low heat and speed from a distance (not too close to your dog’s ear) to evaporate the moisture. However, be cautious not to overheat or burn your dog’s skin or ears.

3. Ear-cleaning solutions

If your dog has frequent ear problems or excessive wax buildup, you may want to consider using an ear-cleaning solution designed for dogs. These solutions usually contain antiseptic ingredients that can help prevent infections and loosen debris, including water.

To use an ear-cleaning solution, follow these steps:

– Hold your dog’s head still and lift up its ear flap
– Pour some solution into the ear canal (as directed on the label)
– Massage the base of the ear gently for 10-20 seconds
– Allow your dog to shake its head (outside if possible) to remove excess liquid
– Wipe away any remaining residue with a cotton ball or pad

Note that not all ear-cleaning solutions are suitable for all dogs, and some may cause allergic reactions or irritation. Always consult with your veterinarian before using any new product on your dog’s ears.

4. Homemade remedies

If you prefer a more natural and DIY approach, you can try some home remedies to get water out of your dog’s ear. Here are some examples:

– Vinegar and rubbing alcohol: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol in a small bowl, dip a cotton ball in the solution, and gently squeeze it into the ear canal. The mixture can help dissolve wax and dry out water.
– Olive oil: Warm up some olive oil to body temperature (not too hot), put a few drops into the affected ear, massage the base of the ear, and let your dog shake its head or wait for a few minutes before wiping away the oil with a clean cloth. Olive oil can moisturize the ear canal and loosen debris.
– Witch hazel: Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel extract (without alcohol), squeeze out the excess liquid, and place it at the opening of the ear canal for 30 seconds. Witch hazel has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin.

While these remedies are generally safe for most dogs, they may not work for every case or could cause adverse effects if used improperly. Therefore, always test a small amount first, watch your dog’s reaction, and ask your vet if in doubt.

Preventing water from getting into a dog’s ear

Of course, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to keeping your dog’s ears healthy and free from water buildup. Here are some tips to avoid water getting into your dog’s ears:

– Use earplugs or cotton balls: If you plan to take your dog swimming or give it a bath, consider using waterproof earplugs or inserting cotton balls deep enough into the ear canal to block water. However, don’t leave them in for too long or push them too far to avoid causing damage.
– Dry your dog’s ears after water exposure: As soon as your dog finishes swimming or bathing, use a towel or cloth to dry its ears thoroughly, especially the inside of the ear flap and the base of the ear canal.
– Trim excess hair around the ears: If your dog has long hair that covers its ears, consider trimming it regularly to reduce the risk of moisture and debris getting trapped in the fur.
– Clean your dog’s ears regularly: Depending on your dog’s breed, age, and health condition, you may need to clean its ears once a week or more frequently. Use a gentle ear-cleaning solution or plain warm water and cotton balls/pads to remove wax, dirt, and debris from the outer part of the ear canal. Avoid using Q-tips or sharp objects that could harm your dog.

Conclusion

Getting water out of a dog’s ear is not rocket science, but it requires patience, care, and common sense. By following the methods and tips outlined in this article, you can help your furry friend feel more comfortable and avoid potential infections or injuries. Remember to respect your dog’s anatomy and personality and seek professional guidance if needed.

As they say, a dry dog is a happy dog!