Preventing Ear Infections in Floppy Eared Dogs: UK Owner's Guide
Folkestone Groomers Team
28 November 2025
12 min read
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Preventing Ear Infections in Floppy Eared Dogs: UK Owner's Guide
If your dog has long, floppy ears, they're 1.76 to 1.84 times more likely to develop an ear infection compared to breeds with upright ears. Those adorable droopy ears that make Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles so charming create the perfect storm for bacteria and yeast—warmth, trapped moisture, and poor airflow all combine to turn a healthy ear into an infection waiting to happen.
Studies of over 22,000 dogs in UK veterinary care showed that around 7% develop otitis externa (ear inflammation) each year, with Basset Hounds facing nearly six times the risk of crossbreeds.[1][2] But here's the thing: most ear infections are preventable with the right care routine.
This guide will show you exactly how to keep those floppy ears healthy, what warning signs mean trouble, and when a quick home check should become a vet visit. Whether you're a new owner of a Spaniel or you've been managing ear issues for years, you'll find practical advice that actually works.
Why Floppy Ears Are Infection Magnets
Understanding why your dog's ears are prone to problems starts with anatomy. Those long ear flaps might look beautiful, but they create an environment that bacteria and yeast absolutely love.
The Perfect Breeding Ground
Think of floppy ears like a warm, damp tent draped over the ear canal. The long ear flap blocks air from reaching the canal, trapping whatever moisture builds up inside. This creates warmth—like a scarf wrapped over your ear—and when that warmth combines with the natural wax your dog produces, you've got ideal conditions for microbes to flourish.[3]
Dogs also have L-shaped ear canals, which means debris and wax can accumulate in the bend, making it harder for the ear to self-clean. Add the ear flap on top, and you've got a recipe for trouble.
High-Risk Breeds and Situations
Some breeds face much higher risks than others. The top five breeds prone to ear infections in UK studies include:
Basset Hounds - 5.87 times the risk compared to crossbreeds
Beagles - 2.54 times the risk
Golden Retrievers - 2.23 times the risk
Cocker Spaniels - Nearly 15 times more likely to experience ear discharge[4]
Poodles and Poodle crosses (Labradoodles) - 2.95 times the risk
Beyond breed, certain activities and conditions make infections more likely:
Swimming - water gets trapped in the ear canal, adding moisture
Regular bathing - same issue if ears aren't properly dried afterwards
Allergies - both food and environmental allergies increase inflammation and infection risk
Dense ear hair - traps debris and reduces airflow even further
Recognising the Signs of Trouble
Catching an ear infection early makes treatment easier and less painful for your dog. Here's what healthy ears should look like, and what signals a problem.
What Healthy Ears Look Like
A healthy dog ear should be pale pink, clean, and have no smell. You might see a small amount of light-coloured wax at the entrance—that's normal. The ear flap (pinna) should feel cool to the touch, and your dog shouldn't react negatively when you gently handle their ears.
Warning Signs That Need Attention
If you spot any of these symptoms, it's time to book a vet appointment:[5][6]
Behavioural changes:
Excessive scratching or pawing at the ears
Frequent head shaking or head tilting to one side
Sensitivity or pain when you touch their ears
Rubbing their head on furniture or the floor
Physical indicators:
Redness, inflammation, or swelling inside the ear flap or canal
Unpleasant, foul, or yeasty odour coming from the ears
Discharge—waxy, brown, yellow, or dark debris
Scabs or crusting around the ear
Warmth around the ear area
Dark brown discharge often indicates a yeast infection, while lighter yellow discharge suggests bacteria. If the infection spreads to the middle or inner ear, you might notice loss of balance or even vomiting—get to the vet immediately if this happens.
Essential Preventive Measures
Prevention beats treatment every time. These simple routines can dramatically reduce your dog's risk of developing ear infections.
Regular Weekly Checks
Make ear checks part of your weekly routine, especially for prone breeds.[7] Gently lift the ear flap and have a quick look and sniff. You're checking for any changes in colour, smell, or the amount of wax. Catching problems early means simpler treatment.
Keep Ears Dry
Moisture is the enemy of healthy ears, so this is crucial for floppy-eared dogs.
After swimming or bathing: Use a clean, dry towel or cotton wool to gently wipe water from the ear flap and around the entrance to the ear canal. Some vets recommend using a dog-specific ear drying solution if your dog swims regularly, but ask your vet before adding this to your routine.
Water bowl management: If your dog's long ears constantly dip into their water bowl, dry the tips regularly to prevent moisture-related skin issues on the ear flap itself.
Grooming for Better Airflow
Regular grooming isn't just about looking smart—it's essential for ear health:
Trim hair around the ears - Reducing the hair around the ear opening improves airflow and reduces debris buildup
Brush regularly - If your dog has long fur, gently brush the ear flaps with a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris
Get professional help with matts - Never try to cut out matted fur yourself, especially near the ears. Book a groomer who can safely remove them
Build Positive Associations
Get your dog comfortable with ear handling from puppyhood, if possible. Start by gently stroking the ear flap, then gradually lift it and rub around the entrance to the ear canal. Use treats and praise throughout. This makes future ear checks and cleaning much easier for both of you.
If your adult dog resists ear handling, take it slowly. Don't force it—build trust with short sessions and plenty of rewards.
Step-by-Step Guide: Safely Cleaning Floppy Ears at Home
Before you start cleaning, check for signs of infection. If you see redness, excessive dark wax, swelling, or smell a foul odour, stop and book a vet appointment. Cleaning an infected ear can make things worse.[8]
What You'll Need
A vet-approved ear cleaner for dogs - Never use human ear cleaners, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or olive oil unless your vet specifically recommends it[9]
Cotton wool pads or gauze squares - NOT cotton buds
Plenty of treats - for positive reinforcement throughout
Old clothes - you will get splashed when your dog shakes their head
A towel - to catch head shakes
Best Ear Cleaners for Routine Care
For routine cleaning, look for pH-balanced, vet-approved cleaners specifically formulated for dogs. These products are designed to clean without irritating the delicate ear canal, and many include drying agents that help prevent moisture buildup.
Two products widely recommended by UK vets include:
Virbac Epi-Otic is one of the most trusted ear cleaners in veterinary practice. It's a pH-neutral, antibacterial solution that effectively removes wax and debris while helping to dry out the ear canal—crucial for preventing the moisture buildup that leads to infections. The gentle formula is suitable for regular use and won't sting or irritate healthy ears.
Amazon UK
Find Virbac Epi-Otic on Amazon UK. Widely recommended by vets for its ability to clean and dry the ear canal effectively.
CleanAural is another excellent veterinary-recommended option that softens and dissolves ear wax while degreasing and hydrating the ear canal's skin. The menthol-based formula provides a fresh fragrance and cooling effect that many dogs tolerate well. It's particularly effective for dogs prone to wax buildup.
Both products can be used once or twice weekly for routine maintenance, or as directed by your vet. Remember that if your dog shows signs of an active infection, you should see your vet before using any cleaning product—infected ears need prescription treatment, not routine cleaning.
The Cleaning Process
Warm the cleaner to room temperature - Cold liquid splashing into the ear canal can panic your dog. If the bottle's been in a cold room, warm it in your hands first.[10]
Pick a calm moment - Choose a time when your dog is relaxed, not when they're hyped up or just back from a walk
Inspect first - Gently lift the ear flap and look at the entrance to the ear canal. If you see redness, swelling, excessive dark wax, or smell something foul, stop and contact your vet
Clean the visible ear flap - Use damp cotton wool pads to wipe the inner surface of the ear flap. Check for grass seeds, burrs, or matted fur
Apply the cleaning solution - Gently fold the ear flap up and carefully insert just the tip of the cleaner nozzle into the entrance of the ear canal. Squeeze the bottle to fill the canal with solution—your vet's product instructions will tell you how much
Massage the base of the ear - Gently massage the base of your dog's ear for 20 to 60 seconds. You'll hear a squelching sound, which means the solution is coating the L-shaped canal and loosening wax and debris[10]
Let them shake - Step back and let your dog shake their head. This expels the loosened wax and solution naturally. Be ready for splashes
Wipe away debris - Use fresh cotton wool pads or gauze to wipe any excess fluid or loosened wax from the entrance and visible parts of the ear. Don't push into the ear canal
Reward generously - Give your dog treats and praise, then repeat on the other ear
Pro Tip:
It's easier to do this in the bathroom or garden where splashes don't matter. Post-cleaning head shakes can spray ear cleaner across your walls!
Critical Cleaning Cautions
Getting ear cleaning wrong can cause serious harm. Follow these critical safety rules.
Never Insert Cotton Buds
Important Warning:
Never put cotton wool, cotton tips, or cotton buds into your dog's ear canal. They push wax and debris deeper into the L-shaped canal, risking blockages and eardrum damage. If inserted too far, they can rupture the eardrum, causing extreme pain and permanent hearing loss.[11]
Use cotton wool pads only for wiping the visible outer parts of the ear. Let the liquid cleaner and your dog's natural head-shaking do the rest.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Home Remedies
Only use vet-approved ear cleaners designed specifically for dogs. Never use:
Hydrogen peroxide - can irritate inflamed ears and damage healthy tissue
Alcohol-based products - burn sensitive skin and cause extreme discomfort
Olive oil - unless prescribed by your vet for specific wax softening, olive oil creates an ideal breeding ground for yeast and bacteria in the warm, dark ear canal[9]
Human ear cleaners - formulated for different pH levels and can harm dogs
Don't Pluck Ear Hair
Never pluck your dog's ear hair unless your vet specifically instructs you to for medical reasons. Plucking causes microscopic tears in the delicate ear canal skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection rather than preventing it. The process is also painful for many dogs.[12]
If your dog has excessive ear hair, ask your groomer to carefully trim it instead. This improves airflow without the risks of plucking.
How Often Should I Clean?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The right frequency depends on your dog's breed, lifestyle, and individual needs.
For Healthy Ears
Dogs with healthy ears and no infection history typically need cleaning once a month or only when you see dirt or debris.[13] Some dogs go their entire lives without needing their ears cleaned. Over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal and actually increase infection risk.
For Floppy-Eared and Prone Breeds
Dogs predisposed to ear problems—like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Poodles—often benefit from weekly or fortnightly cleaning.[13] This is particularly important for dogs who swim regularly or have allergies.
Ask Your Vet
Your vet knows your dog's medical history and can tailor advice to their specific needs. When in doubt, ask for a personalised cleaning schedule during your next check-up.
When to Seek Professional Veterinary Help
Some situations require professional treatment, not home care. Book a vet appointment if you notice any of these:
Signs of an Active Infection
If you see redness, swelling, foul odour, or excessive discharge, don't attempt home cleaning. These are signs of infection that need prescription treatment—usually medicated ear drops containing antibiotics, antifungals, and anti-inflammatories.[14]
Treating an infection at home can make it worse or allow it to spread deeper into the middle or inner ear, leading to serious complications.
Pain or Distress During Cleaning
If your dog yelps, pulls away, or shows signs of pain when you touch their ears or attempt cleaning, stop immediately. Pain suggests inflammation or infection that needs veterinary assessment.
Recurring or Chronic Ear Problems
Repeated ear infections often point to an underlying condition like allergies. If your dog's ears keep getting infected despite proper cleaning, your vet needs to investigate the root cause. Treating just the symptoms won't solve the problem.
Suspected Foreign Object
If you think something's lodged deep in the ear canal—a grass seed is a common culprit during summer—don't try to remove it yourself. Your vet has the proper tools and can do this safely under sedation if needed.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Proactive care is your best defence against ear infections in floppy-eared dogs. Regular weekly checks, keeping ears dry after swimming or bathing, and gentle cleaning when needed will dramatically reduce your dog's risk of developing painful ear problems.
Remember these key points:
Check ears weekly for changes in colour, smell, or wax buildup
Keep ears dry, especially after water exposure
Clean only when needed—over-cleaning causes problems too
Never use cotton buds inside the ear canal
Stop and contact your vet if you see signs of infection
When in doubt about your dog's ear health or cleaning technique, consult your vet. They can show you the proper method and create a personalised care plan for your dog's specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are dogs with floppy ears more prone to infections?
The long ear flaps block airflow to the ear canal, creating warmth and trapping moisture—perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to multiply. Dogs with pendulous ear carriage face 1.76 to 1.84 times the risk of ear infections compared to breeds with upright ears. The L-shaped canals in all dogs make drainage difficult, but floppy ears compound the problem by acting like a sealed lid over the canal.
How often should I clean my Cocker Spaniel's ears?
For Cocker Spaniels and other high-risk breeds, weekly or fortnightly cleaning is often recommended. However, the exact frequency depends on your individual dog's needs. Dogs who swim frequently or have allergies may need more regular cleaning, while those with healthy ears might need it less often. Always check with your vet for personalised advice.
Can I use cotton buds to clean my dog's ears?
No, never use cotton buds inside your dog's ear canal. They push wax and debris deeper into the L-shaped canal, creating blockages and risking eardrum damage. If inserted too far, cotton buds can rupture the eardrum, causing severe pain and permanent hearing loss. Use cotton wool pads only for wiping the visible outer ear, and let liquid cleaner and head-shaking do the rest.
What does a healthy dog ear look like?
A healthy ear is pale pink, clean, and odour-free. You might see a small amount of light-coloured wax, which is normal. The ear should feel cool to the touch, and your dog shouldn't show discomfort when you gently lift the ear flap. If you notice redness, swelling, dark discharge, or a foul smell, book a vet appointment.
Should I pluck hair from my dog's ears?
No, routine ear hair plucking is not recommended and can be dangerous. Plucking causes microscopic tears in the delicate ear canal skin, increasing infection risk rather than preventing it. It's also painful for many dogs. If excessive ear hair is a problem, ask your groomer to carefully trim it instead, which improves airflow without the risks of plucking.
Can I treat my dog's ear infection at home?
No, active ear infections require prescription medication from a vet. Home cleaning products aren't designed to treat infections, and attempting treatment yourself can worsen the condition or allow it to spread deeper into the ear. If you see signs of infection—redness, swelling, foul odour, or excessive discharge—book a vet appointment immediately.
References
This guide is based on verified research from UK veterinary sources and peer-reviewed studies:
[1] O'Neill DG, James H, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Pegram C. 2021. Prevalence of commonly diagnosed disorders in UK dogs under primary veterinary care: results and applications. BMC Veterinary Research 17:69. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7871475/
[2] O'Neill DG, Volk AV, Soares T, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Pegram C. 2019. Frequency and predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK—a primary veterinary care epidemiological view. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology 6:6. ResearchGate study link
