Many dog owners focus on feeding, exercise, and playtime but overlook one critical part of their pet’s health: ear and eye care. Just like humans, dogs are vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria, yeast, and environmental irritants. In fact, ear infections are among the top reasons for veterinary visits, and untreated eye issues can lead to discomfort, vision problems, or long-term damage.
The good news is that most of these problems are completely preventable with proper grooming routines and the right care products. By learning how to clean your dog’s ears and eyes safely, you can catch early warning signs, reduce the risk of infections, and keep your pet healthy and comfortable for years to come.
Why Ear Care Is Essential for Dogs
Dogs’ ears are warm, moist environments where bacteria and yeast love to grow. Certain breeds with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels or Golden Retrievers) are especially prone to infections.
Common signs of ear problems include:
- Redness or swelling inside the ear
- Constant scratching or head shaking
- Dark discharge or bad odor
- Sensitivity when touched
Regular cleaning helps remove wax, debris, and moisture, reducing the risk of infection.
Why Eye Care Matters Just as Much
Your dog’s eyes are sensitive and exposed to dust, pollen, and irritants. Breeds with prominent eyes (like Pugs or Shih Tzus) may be more prone to tearing and staining.
Watch for these warning signs:
- Watery or excessive tearing
- Redness or squinting
- Brown tear stains under the eyes
- Discharge or crust buildup
Gentle, consistent eye cleaning keeps your dog comfortable and prevents infections from bacteria or irritants.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears & Eyes
Ear Cleaning
- Choose a vet-approved ear cleaner – avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as they can irritate the ear canal.
- Gently lift your dog’s ear flap and apply the cleaner.
- Massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to loosen debris.
- Let your dog shake their head (messy but effective!).
- Wipe away remaining liquid and debris with a soft cotton pad.
Tip: Clean ears once a week for floppy-eared breeds, and once every 2–4 weeks for others.
Eye Cleaning
- Use a dog-safe eye wipe or solution to gently clean around the eye.
- Wipe outward, away from the inner corner, to avoid pushing debris into the eye.
- Repeat with a fresh pad/wipe for the other eye.
- For tear stains, use a specially formulated tear-stain remover.
Tip: Daily wiping helps prevent buildup, especially for dogs prone to watery eyes.
Best Products for Ear & Eye Care
To make ear and eye care easier, here are some trusted products available at Luluspot:
- Keep your dog’s ears fresh and odor-free with the Ear Care Solution designed to gently remove wax, dirt, and debris without irritation.
- If your pup struggles with mites or ticks, No-Bite Ear Mite & Tick Control offers powerful yet safe protection against parasites.
- For daily eye care, the Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash helps flush out dirt and soothe irritation.
- To keep tear stains and crusty buildup under control, try Pro Eye Wipes a quick and easy way to keep your pup’s eyes clean.
When to See a Vet
While home care is essential, some issues require professional treatment. Contact your vet if you notice:
- Persistent odor or discharge despite cleaning
- Excessive pawing at ears or rubbing face on furniture
- Swelling, bleeding, or sudden changes in behavior
Prompt attention ensures your pup avoids pain and recovers quickly.
Final Thoughts
Ear and eye care might seem like small tasks, but they have a huge impact on your dog’s health. By making grooming part of your routine and using the right products, you can prevent infections, avoid costly vet bills, and keep your furry friend happy and comfortable.
Explore Luluspot’s full Grooming & Hygiene Collection to make ear and eye care simple, safe, and stress-free.