Pet King Brands Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bio-Active Enzymes
Mister Ben’s Original Ear Care Kit Wash and Tonic for Dogs with Aloe
PPP AromaCare Ear Wipes with Aloe Vera and Eucalyptus
Good hygiene is next to canine godliness. Believe it or not, dog ears are one of the common breeding grounds for bacteria, causing infection, as they are rather intimate and less visible to the naked eye and thus often prone to neglect. If you truly care about your furry best friend, you should also truly care about their ears. Don’t settle for anything less than what your dog deserves and find the best cleaner possible.
Ear cleaning solutions may contain chemicals or other ingredients that cause allergic reactions. As dog parents, it becomes your responsibility to choose products that have been proven and tested by experts and consumers. Check out our list to know your options.
The Best Dog Ear Cleaners:
1
Pet King Brands Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bio-Active Enzymes
Why wait for germs to wreak havoc in your pet’s ears when you can apply the Zymox Ear Cleanser regularly to help provide a protective layer on your pet’s ears against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms? Without a doubt, Zymox is one of the best dog ear cleaners in the market primarily because of its unique LP3 enzyme system that utilizes 3 bioactive enzymes that have excellent antimicrobial properties.
Enzymes work by catalyzing chemical reactions and are important components of your dog’s immune system. The Zymox dog ear cleaner not only removes waxy buildup from your pet’s ears, it also lines these with the LP3 system so germs that may be present in your dog’s ears will be killed instantly even before they can start an infection. This ear cleaner from Pet king also doubles as a natural way to give your pet a cleaner and more refreshing smell, allowing you to hug it a lot closer to you.
Contains lysozyme, lactoferrin, and lactoperoxidase (LP3 enzyme system)
Prevents microbial growth and proliferation
Designed as an all-purpose ear cleanser and deodorizer
Pet-safe, non-toxic formulation
Made in the US
- BrandPet King Brands
- Model006PKB-4OZ
- Weight4.8 oz
2
Dechra DermaPet MalAcetic Otic Cleanser
Make no mistake! the DermaPet MalAcetic is not your ordinary ear wax cleaner. While it does come in a refreshingly cool apple scent, this ear drops for dogs is designed specifically to make it very unfavorable for bacteria and fungi to proliferate in your dog’s ears. It is most effective in dogs with existing acute or chronic bacterial or fungal infections since the combination of acetic acid and boric acid balances the pH of the skin surface making it very difficult for germs to thrive.
Obviously, MalAcetic dog ear cleaning solution is best used in conjunction with conventional ear infection treatments. Some pet parents use MalAcetic dog ear infection drops on a regular basis even though there are no signs of concurrent ear infection in their dogs. We don’t recommend this as the formulation of MalAcetic specifically calls for the presence of an ongoing ear infection for it to neutralize the pH environment upon which these microorganisms are thriving in. But, it’s always your call. At any rate, your dog will still benefit from MalAcetic’s amazing ear cleansing properties.
Contains acetic acid 2% and boric acid 2%
Adjunct management of bacterial and fungal infections
pH-balanced and hypoallergenic formulation
Fresh apple scent
- BrandDechra
- ModelDERMSKIN16
- Weight1 lb
3
VetWELL EarWELL Otic Cleansing Solution with Aloe
What’s the best way to remove ear wax on your dog? How about applying a drop or two of the EarWELL Otic Cleansing Solution every day? Not only will you be getting rid of nasty wax buildup, dirt, and debris; you will also be giving your pet a nice sweet and cool cucumber-melon scent. It won’t sting or leave a burning sensation on your dog’s ears.
What separates EarWELL from other dog ear wax removal systems is that it includes in its formulation linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Add to this the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E and you’ve got a formulation that is guaranteed to bring instant relief to your pet’s frequent ear scratching. The addition of aloe vera extract helps clean and dry the ears while its other ingredients all work together to give you a solution that is inarguably the best way to clean ears of dogs.
Contains aloe vera, linoleic acid, vitamins A, C, and E
For cleansing, drying, deodorizing, and acidifying pet ears
Cool and refreshing cucumber-melon scent
Non-burning, non-stinging, pet-safe formulation
Manufactured in the US
- BrandVetWELL
- Weight8.2 oz
4
Mister Ben’s Original Ear Care Kit: Aloe Wash & Tonic for Dogs
It’s not just a dog ear cleaner; it’s a dog ear tonic, too. This is one of the best things about Mister Ben’s Ear Care Kit that features all the benefits of aloe vera. Mister Ben’s unique dog ear flush solution features all natural ingredients that work exceptionally fast and, more importantly, very effective especially in relieving your pet of symptoms of ear infections.
The ingredients used in Mister Ben’s dog ear cleaner system are guaranteed to address all canine ear issues including itching, redness, swelling, and nasty smell brought about by yeast, mites, bacteria, and fungi. It only uses cold-pressed 100% organic aloe in its formulation so you’ll feel safer about what you’re dropping into your dog’s ears. There are no harsh chemicals that can sting or burn the skin. In addition to aloe, Mister Ben’s also uses vinegar, boric acid, and povidone-iodine making it an effective dog ear infection drops as it is an ear wax removal solution.
All-natural ingredients: 100% organic aloe vera
For relief of itching, swelling, irritation, redness
Antibacterial, anti-mite, antifungal, and anti-yeast properties
Cold-press extraction technology
Made in the US
- BrandMister Ben’s
- Weight1.1 lbs
5
PPP AromaCare Ear Wipes with Aloe Vera and Eucalyptus
Using a dog ear flush is effective in cleaning your pet’s ears, but its application can be off-putting to some pet owners. A good alternative is to use ear wipes as a daily ear cleaner for your dog. One of the best ear wipes you can get is this product from AromaCare. Combining the cleansing, anti-itch, and anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera with the antiseptic and odor-neutralizing benefits of eucalyptus, this handy dog ear cleaner is something you’d want to use on your dog on a daily basis, although AromaCare says you should only use it twice a week.
The good thing with using ear wipes is that you don’t necessarily have to put up with mess once your dog shakes its head. This is a common issue in dog ear cleaning solution products. With these pre-soaked wipes, there’s no frazzling about whether you’re applying the dog ear infection drops correctly or not. A simple wipe is all it takes.
Contains aloe vera and eucalyptus
Removes dirt, wax, debris and nasty odors
Enriched with lactic acid
For dogs at least 12 weeks old
Disposable, pre-soaked wipes
- BrandPPP
- ModelA1110
- Weight8 oz
6
Petpost Ear Care Dog Ear Wipes with Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera
We all want our dogs to be happy. But if it is being bothered by constant itching in its ears caused by bacteria and fungi, you really cannot expect Bongo to live a very content and happy life. With Petpost!’s Ear Care Dog Ear Wipes, your dog’s happiness is in your hands.
Featuring coconut oil as its base and aloe vera as its active ingredient, Petpost! Ear cleaner and ear wax removal system in pre-soaked wipes is a handy tool to keep your pet’s ears free from odor-causing germs, itching, and inflammation. It also utilizes only premium quality, extra-soft cotton pads to make sure that each wipe will never scratch or irritate the skin in your dog’s ears. It’s unlike other dog ear wipes that are rather coarse to the touch; it’s like flimsy sandpaper on your pet’s ears. At the very least, you get to remove dirt, debris, and wax and leave a fresher scent without causing unnecessary harm to your pet’s ears.
Contains aloe vera and coconut oil
Pre-soaked extra-soft cotton ear wipes design
Removes dirt, wax, debris, odor-causing bacteria
100% money-back guarantee
- BrandPetpost
- Weight4 oz
7
Doggie Dailies Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil
With the anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel, aloe vera, and tea tree oil combining with the immune-boosting and antimicrobial benefits of Echinacea, Doggie Dailies’ Ear Wash is one of the best dog ear cleaners money can buy. This ear drops for dogs is perfect for keeping your pet’s auditory canal clean, free from germs and smelling fresh and nice, too. Its formulation is guaranteed safe and will never leave a stinging or burning sensation in its ears.
Whether you’ll use it on your dog every day or once a week, you can be sure about the benefits it’s going to bring. Your dog will have a much better, happier time since it will no longer have to frequently scratch its ears or even shake its head. Best of all, you’ll be hugging and cuddling your pooch a lot closer to you and more frequently, too, since there’s no more nasty smell emanating from its ears. It’s the best way to remove ear wax in dogs and keep it clean and smelling fresh.
Contains witch hazel, tea tree oil, Echinacea, and aloe vera
Formulated for removal of ear dirt, debris, wax
Relief of itching, irritation, odor
Pet-safe, non-stinging, non-burning solution
Made in the US
- BrandDoggie Dailies
- Weight10.4 oz
8
Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash + Dry Dog Ear Cleaner Kit
If you believe Mister Ben’s ear wax removal and cleaning solution is one of a kind, you haven’t seen Vet’s Best’s best dog ear cleaners yet. This canine otic cleansing and drying kit are specially formulated utilizing only a blend of all-natural herbal remedies that have been proven effective in cleansing and soothing itchy, irritated, smelly, and swollen dog’s ears while controlling moisture and eliminating bad odors.
The Vet’s Best ear cleaner and dryer system can be considered as the best way to clean the ears of dogs. The Ear Relief Wash formula is specific for removing dirt, wax, and debris while also alleviating the signs of ear inflammation such as pain, swelling, redness, and itching. The Ear Relief Dry formula is what controls the moisture levels in the dog’s ears. Keeping the moisture levels is crucial to making sure fungi and other microorganisms that thrive in a moist, dark, and warm environment will not grow and proliferate.
Combination of ear wash and dryer
Ear wash contains witch hazel, Echinacea, yucca, chamomile, clove oil, and tea tree oil
Ear dryer contains witch hazel, chamomile, calendula, clove oil, and aloe vera
Ear wash for ear cleansing and soothing relief
Ear dryer for odor and moisture control
Made in the US
- BrandVet’s Best
- Model3165810023
- Weight10.6 oz
9
Project Paws Ear Wipes for Dogs with Aloe Vera and Eucalyptus
One of the best dog ear cleaners in the market in wipes form is this product from Project Paws. It’s perfect for everyday use on dogs or puppies that are at least 12 weeks old. Its formulation makes use of aloe vera and eucalyptus to help get rid of dirt, debris, and wax that may have built up in your pet’s ear canals over time. It also contains salicylic acid which has excellent antifungal properties so you’ll never have to fret about these germs living in your dog’s ears.
Project Paws ear wax cleaner is designed to be the best way to clean ears of dogs on a daily basis by simplifying the process. Each pre-soaked pad is laced with all the necessary ingredients to ensure healthier, cleaner, and definitely fresher smelling canine ears. The pads don’t contain alcohol which can dry the skin of the ears. Overall, the Project Paws dog ear cleaner wipes are perfect for daily ear cleaning as well as for on-the-spot cleansing of your canine friend’s auditory apparatuses.
Contains soothing aloe vera and odor-controlling eucalyptus
Non-stinging, alcohol-free formulation
Lessens scratching and itching and removes ear dirt, wax, debris
Enriched with lactic acid
Made in the US
- BrandProject Paws
- Weight5.6 oz
10
NaturPet Ear Drops for Cats and Dogs
Safeguard your pet’s happiness with this ear drops for dogs formulated by NaturPet. While the reviews are mixed, we’ve found a greater proportion of pet parents saying many nice things about the dog ear cleaner. Featuring a bevy of all-natural ingredients like Lobelia, Echinacea, black and blue Cohosh, Blue Vervain, Skullcap, and garlic in an olive oil base, NaturPet provides a more natural, more holistic dog ear cleaning solution sans worrisome ingredients.
From ear inflammation and redness to pain and smelly discharge, NaturPet seems to have the right answer. Add to this the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of many of its active ingredients and you’ll know you’ve got the right product for your pet. It may not be made in the US, but you can almost always count on the quality of Canadian manufacturers especially those that are c-GMP.
All-natural ingredients
Analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, deodorant, and astringent properties
Relieves ear itching, pain, irritation, odors, and inflammation
Made in Canada
- BrandNaturPet
- Weight1.6 oz
Best Dog Ear Cleaners Buying Guide & FAQ
What to Consider When Buying Dog Ear Cleaners
Buying the right dog ear cleaner entails a few things that need to be considered. These are as follows.
- Purpose
You need to determine if the ear cleaner is for general cleaning only or you would like other benefits as well. For example, there are those that come with antimicrobial or antiseptic properties that are effective in addressing ongoing ear infections. There are also those that address nasty pet smell emanating from the dog’s ears.
- Safety
This is inherent in the ingredients used in the formulation of dog ear cleaners. Ideally, you should always go for products that use all-natural ingredients and stay away from those that use harsh chemicals in their formulas. Alcohol is definitely a big no-no since it dries and can irritate the skin in the ears.
- Effectiveness
Whenever safety is considered, effectiveness is almost always adversely affected. We all know that certain preparations that are really effective can come with a variety of side effects. There should be a good balance between effectiveness and safety. Obviously, you cannot just pick a safe product if it cannot do a good job of cleaning and deodorizing your pet’s ears. In like manner, you cannot have a really effective product at the expense of pet safety.
- Ease of application
This actually depends on the purpose of the dog ear cleaner. If it’s for everyday use wet wipes may be a better choice since it is less traumatic for your dog and definitely more convenient for you. However, if it’s deep cleaning, disinfection, and deodorizing that you require, then only an otic drop will do. Even so, you should still go for otic drops that are a lot easier to apply than others.
Benefits of Using Dog Ear Cleaners
While we can use homemade dog ear cleaners, sometimes the best solution is still commercially-available dog cleaners. Here are a few of the many benefits of using such products.
- Balances the pH of the skin of the ears
There are microorganisms that naturally reside on the skin. These are non-pathogenic or non-disease-causing microorganisms that play an important role in keeping the pH balance of the skin. If the skin becomes too acidic, it may favor the growth of acid-loving microorganisms. If it is too alkaline, it also favors the growth of alkali-loving germs. That is why the pH of the skin must be maintained within its normal range. Anything that upsets this balance can lead to ear infections.
Some dog ear cleaners are specially formulated to strike a balance between acidity and alkalinity so that microorganisms that require either acidic or alkaline environments will not wreak havoc in your dog’s ears. This also helps minimize infections while also eliminating the development of really bad odors from the ears.
- Promotes hearing acuity
The chief function of the outer ear is to convey sound waves from the environment to the middle and inner structures of the ear. This is an important thing to remember since dog ear cleaners only work on the outer ear. Anything that impedes the movement or transmission of sound waves from the external environment through the ear canal and into the eardrum can lead to decreased hearing acuity. In other words, your dog will not be able to hear accurately.
Cleaning its ears by using dog ear cleaning solutions especially those that dissolve wax and remove dirt and debris is useful when it comes to promoting optimum hearing acuity. Since the waxy buildup is removed, there are no obstacles that can impede the effective transmission of sound waves. This way, your dog hears your calls or commands even better. Training can be made a lot more interesting and definitely more fun, too.
- Prevents infection
Upsetting the normal pH balance of the skin in the ears can favor the growth and proliferation of certain germs. Wax, debris, and dirt in the ear canal can then provide a good refuge or ‘temporary home’ for these microorganisms. These germs also tend to feed on organic matter that is present in ear debris or wax. Now add into the equation moisture and you’ve got the perfect condition for creating an overabundance of pathogenic microorganisms.
Dog ear cleaners can help prevent infection by addressing these three elements – the upsetting of the skin’s natural pH balance, the accumulation of dirt or organic matter that can protect and nourish germs, and the introduction of moisture that facilitates the growth and proliferation of such germs.
- Provides a nice smell to dogs
One of the most often causes of pet smell is an ongoing ear infection. The problem is that most pet parents don’t often think of an ear problem if their dog happens to be smelly. If despite frequent bathing you can still smell some nasty stink from your dog, there’s a high chance your pet has an ear infection. This is often caused by yeast infections.
Dog ear cleaners that contain ingredients that are effective against yeast ear infections can help minimize, if not eliminate nasty pet odors by addressing the problem right from its very root. Of course, you don’t expect the problem to go away immediately. Sometimes you’ll need several days of continuous application for you to smell any noticeable improvements.
Liquid vs. Wipe Ear Cleaners
Two of the most common preparations for dog ear cleaners in the market are liquid drops and wipes. Each preparation actually has its pros and cons. Understanding the applications of these preparations can help you make the right choice as to which of these two you should use in cleaning your dog’s ears.
- Liquid otic drops
Resembling eye drops, canine otic drops are preferred by most pet parents because of the deeper clean that these products provide. The cleaning solution is instilled into the dog’s ear canal and allowed to stay there for a few seconds before the dog is encouraged to shake its head in an effort to remove as much of the dog ear cleaning solution. Because the cleaning solution stays inside the dog’s ear for quite some time, it can go to work loosening wax and other debris so that these can be easily removed when the dog shakes its head.
Unfortunately, this is where some pet parents are really put off. As the dog shakes its head, some of the cleaning solution, as well as the dirt and gunk from the dog’s ears, can be splattered onto the clothes, arms, and even the face of the pet parent if he or she is not careful enough.
- Ear wipes
Like wet wipes, dog ear wipes are perfect for on-the-spot cleaning. For example, your dog just came from the garden and you notice its ears to be really dirty, you don’t have to clean it with a dog ear cleaning drops right away. You can easily clean it using these wet wipes designed especially for dogs’ ears.
There is one problem though. You will not really be able to clean in between the folds of skin in your dog’s ear canal. You may not even be able to clean the inner portion of the dog’s outer ear simply because the cleaning prowess of the ear is dependent on the size of your fingers. If you have a large or giant breed of dog, then putting your finger wrapped with ear wipes inside its ears shouldn’t be a problem. Even then, you will still not be able to clean as thoroughly as you would like to. Nevertheless, ear wipes are perfect for every day superficial cleaning of your dog’s auditory pinnae and canal.
Best Dog Ear Cleaners FAQ:
Q: What is a dog ear cleaner?
A: Dog ear cleaners are solutions that contain specific ingredients intended to remove wax, dirt, debris, and other particles in your dog’s ears. Depending on the active ingredient or ingredients of the solution, it can dissolve waxy accumulations while providing a protective layer in the skin surface of the ears. This can help provide for a more naturally-balanced skin pH and prevent the outgrowth of pathogenic germs.
Q: How do I clean my dog’s ear?
A: Cleaning your canine friend’s ears is easy. One of the very important things you have to ensure is that your dog is well-rested and calm even before you start cleaning its ears. Not all dogs are fond of having someone poke something in their ears, especially those that are quite sensitive to such activities. It is always a good idea to get someone else to help you hold and soothe the dog while you’re cleaning its auditory canal.
Always make sure to clean your pet’s ears in a well-lighted environment. Cleaning the ears is not all about cleaning, you know? This is your chance to look for any sign of abnormalities such as discharges, swelling, redness, or even wounds. You won’t be able to see these things in a dimly-lit environment.
Get your cleaning materials ready. Gently pull on your dog’s ear to straighten its ear canal. Slowly insert the tip of the dog ear cleaning solution into the ear canal and apply a drop or two. For the actual number of drops to be administered, you can check the manufacturer’s recommendation or even your vet’s directions.
Remove the dog ear cleanser from the dog’s ear and massage the base of its ear. Wait for about a minute or a minute-and-a-half for the solution to work. Your massaging action will also help remove debris or wax that has already been loosened by the cleaning solution.
Let your dog shake its head to remove any excess cleaning solution and to get rid of the loosened debris. Wipe your dog’s outer ear with wet wipes. Now repeat the same process in your dog’s other ear.
Once you’re done, don’t forget to shower your pet with hugs, treats, and plenty of play time for being such a good dog.
Q: Can I use a human ear cleaner on my dog?
A: The short answer is “no!” You cannot and should not use an ear cleaner intended for humans on your dog. They may have the same ingredients, but the formulation can be a little bit different. You might only bring more harm to your dog than good.
Our Top Pick
We are one with the majority of pet parents in saying that the triple bioactive enzyme formulation of Zymox Ear Cleanser is the best dog ear cleaner in the dog world. The LP3 enzyme system that features Lactoperoxidase, Lysozyme and Lactoferrin is what clearly separates the Zymox from the rest of the pack. It’s safe to use on a regular basis and is very effective not only in keeping your pet’s ears clean and smelling fresh, but also in protecting your dog’s ears from bacterial, fungal, yeast, and other microbial infections.
Whether it is a part of their regular grooming regimen or for on-the-spot cleaning, you can always count on the best dog ear cleaners we’ve featured in this article to help you manage your hound’s dirty and smelly ears.
Sources
- Dog Ear Cleaning: Do I need to wash my dog's ears?, Banfield Pet Hospital
