Buying Guide, Health

7 Best Ear Drops for Dogs – Get Rid of Infection!

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Author: Jacob Kay

Ear infections in dogs are common but, they are known to cause lots of problems for them. It can cause pain, compromise hearing, and influence their behaviour. If the situation remains unresolved, dog owners face some serious challenges. To prevent the escalation, dog owners need the best ear drops for dogs.

So, to make sure you have the best dog ear drops, continue reading the article. You’ll find different ear drops that you can use for your furry friend. Also, the buying guide will help you filter out your choices based on features, perks, drawbacks, and usage prospects.

Best Ear Drops for Dogs

Best Ear Drops for Dogs

Ear drops for dogs are made using different ingredients and liquid solutions to clean the ear canal, medicate dogs’ ears, or provide relaxation. The substances used are safe for dogs and clean ears nicely without causing any harm. To help you pick the best ear drops for dogs, our team at Wewantdogs has curated the list that will help you pick the suitable ear drops for your dog. Let’s have a peek at different dog ear drops:

1. Otodex Petlife Ear Drops

If you need ear drops which have a fast-acting formula then, Otodex Petlife Ear Drops are the ones you need to consider. The otodex ear drops are made to treat issues like irritation, infection, and otitis externa. To clear the wax, and provide relief to dogs from irritation quickly, the manufacturer has used a fast-acting formula.

The active ingredients used in the otodex ear drops also help in killing the mites. For effective results, you can squeeze in 3 to 4 drops one time daily until the issue is resolved.

Otodex Petlife Ear Drops

Key ingredients:

  • Phenoxyethanol 
  • Chlorbutanol hemihydrate 
  • Propylene glycolbase

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Further, the manufacturer claims that their ear drops are vet-approved so, safe for the dogs.

Perks
  • Kills mites
  • Relieves scratching
  • Clears wax and keeps ear clean
Drawbacks
  • Some dogs might face inflammation issues

2. Quistel Dog Ear Cleaner Solution – Soothing Canaural Ear Drops

For dog owners looking for ear drops which will help get rid of dirt then, Quistel Dog Ear Cleaner Solution will be a suitable option. This soothing canaural ear drop provides dogs relief from itching and pain while suffering an infection in the ear. The composition of this ear-cleaning solution includes alcohol and genatin violet.

The solution penetrates the hairy and narrowest canals in dogs to clean the ear. It also has the ability to get rid of the mites and reduce the odour that might come from the ear.

Quistel Dog Ear Cleaner Solution - Soothing Canaural Ear Drops

Key ingredients:

  • Alcohol
  • Gentian Violet

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According to the manufacturer, this canaural ear drop is suitable for dogs over 4 months of age.

Perks
  • Prevents infection
  • Dries dogs’ ear
  • Eliminates dirt and wax
Drawbacks
  • The smell of the solution is too strong for some dogs

3. ICF Otodine Ear Drops for Dogs

The ICF Otodine Ear Drops for Dogs are useful for dog owners who seek long-term and safe solutions. Unlike the earwax removal tool, otodine ear drops are safe for dogs and easy for owners to handle. The small bottler dropper bottle makes it convenient for dog owners to use it.

In addition, the composition of the ingredients promotes healthy ears and makes them clean. It does this by removing the odour, and itchiness to provide relief to the dog. Also, the antifungal and antibacterial properties soothe dry ear skin.

ICF Otodine Ear Drops for Dogs

Key ingredients:

  • TrisEDTA
  • Chlorhexidine Digluconate 

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The manufacturer suggests using their ear drops once or twice a week. You can also use it frequently but, not without vets’ advice.

Perks
  • Purifies and cleans the ear canal
  • Gentle and non-irritating
  • Limits the need for antibiotics
  • Reduces excessive wax from the ear
Drawbacks
  • Cost is high

4. Johnsons Veterinary Products Ear Drops

For dog owners who prefer branded stuff, Johnsons Veterinary Products Ear Drops will be a feasible choice for them. This ear drop deals with a common ear infection caused by mites. It uses natural pyrethrum and other softening agents to provide dogs relief from infection issues.

The softening agents of johnsons dog ear drops dissolve the wax and debris from dogs’ ear canals to make them cleaner.

Johnsons Veterinary Products Ear Drops

Key ingredients:

  • Natural pyrethrum
  • Softening agents

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The manufacturer suggests not to use this ear drop for dogs who have severe ear infection issues.

Perks
  • Provides relief from infection
  • Has softening agents to clear wax
Drawbacks
  • Only suitable for dogs aged more than 12 weeks

5. Beaphar Ear Drops for Dogs

For dog owners looking to buy ear drops which will solve common ear infections and won’t need a vet’s prescription then, Beaphar Ear Drops for Dogs will be perfect for them. These drops are made to help get rid of common symptoms such as scratching at ears, waxy debris, head shaking or dark, dry, in one or both ears.

The specially formulated solution also helps in clearing the wax and other debris from dogs’ ear canals. This will reduce the irritation and provide relief to the dog.

Key ingredients:

  • Pyrethrum pale
  • Piperonyl butoxide

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As per the manufacturer, you can apply 6 to 8 drops to the inner ear of the dog to get optimal results.

Perks
  • Easy to use
  • Softens ear wax
  • Protects delicate membrane
Drawbacks
  • Not useful for dogs below 12 weeks of age

6. BUGALUGS Dog Ear Drops

If you need antiseptic ear drops for your dogs then, BUGALUGS Dog Ear Drops are the ones you need to consider buying. This ear drop uses a clinically proven formula which flushes out the dirt, removes wax, and eliminates the bad smell. It uses a pH-balanced natural antiseptic solution that uses hypochlorous acid, which dogs’ immune system produces as the response to fight infection.

So, it can help dogs get relief from itchy ears, bad odours, minor cuts, irritation and skin grazes as well. You can consider these ear drops as cleaner solutions to get rid of stinky stuff from dogs’ ears.

BUGALUGS Dog Ear Drops

Key ingredients:

  • Hypochlorous acid

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According to the manufacturer, you need to apply this ear drop to the dog’s ear canal until the liquid is visible. Massage the base of the ear for roughly 25 seconds.

Perks
  • No alcohol or fragrance
  • No rinsing is required
  • Suitable for skin and ear infection
  • Helpful in post-surgery wound care
Drawbacks
  • Some dogs face irritation issues in the ears

7. ICF Clorexyderm Ear Cleaner Solution

ICF Clorexyderm Ear Cleaner Solution will be an ideal option for dog owners who need ear drops that will help remove wax and bad odour from their furry friends’ ears. The formula of this ear drop helps balance the microflora in the ear and clean the ear canal. In addition, the cleaning formula softens the ear wax and removes the debris from the ear canal.

Further, the cleaning formula helps dry the ear canal so, useful for dogs who swim often. Also, the ear drop is non-oily and is easy to wipe off.

ICF Clorexyderm Ear Cleaner Solution

Key ingredients:

  • Chlorhexidine Digluconate
  • Lactic Acid
  • Salicylic Acid
  • Propylene Glycol

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The manufacturer of this ear drop claims that it is alcohol-free and water-based. So, the fluid travels easily towards the ear canal.

Perks
  • Prevents wax build-up
  • Soothes the ear canal
  • Delicate dissolution of excess earwax
Drawbacks
  • Price is high

Buying Guide: Best Ear Drops for Dogs

In the previous section, you saw different ear drops for dogs that are available for the dogs. Each of the drops mentioned is useful but, based on the infection or issue the dog is having, you’ll need to pick the best ear drops for the dogs. So, keep reading this buying guide and you’ll get detailed insights into different prospects.

Ear drops for dogs – why do dog owners need them?

Dog owners usually need ear drops for their dogs when the dog is suffering from infection issues. The infection in the ears could lead to ear problems and it’s crucial to prevent the spread. Here are some of the prominent issues explaining why dog owners need ear drops:

  • Ear infection – the fungi, parasites, or bacteria can get into the ear canal of dogs and lead to issues like inflammation, itching, pain, discharge, and bad odour. The infection in the ears can be acute, or chronic and it can affect the outer, middle, or inner ear.
  • Ear mites – tiny parasites which reside near the canal and feed on the ear wax and skin debris. Ear mites can cause inflammation, scratching, irritation, discharge of fluid from the ear, or head shaking. The dog ear drops can help in getting rid of these mites, soothe irritation,
  • Ear allergies –the overreaction of the immune system to specific substances which come in contact with the ear like pollen, food, or dust, can trigger allergies in dogs’ ears.
  • Ear wax – this is a natural substance responsible for lubricating and protecting the ear canal from dirt and debris. However, some dogs produce excessive ear wax. This can accumulate and block the ear canal and cause discomfort for the dog, or impair their hearing. Ear drops can help in removing the excessive ear wax, and keep their ear clean.

Ear drops for dogs – Buying Prospects

We saw different reasons why dog owners need ear drops for their furry friends. But, not all ear drops are the same. They have different compositions or ingredients. So, to make sure you pick the best ear drops for your furry friend, here are some of the buying prospects that you need to consider:

#1. Ingredients and concentration

The ingredients and concentration are significant buying prospects for the dog ear drops as they help signify the safety and efficiency of the product. The mix of ingredients in a dog ear drop is to resolve a specific issue that the dog is facing. Also, they have different effects on the issues, like anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-bacterial, or anti-fungal.

Here are some of the ingredients that you may find in dog ear drops:

  • Florfenicol – this antibiotic helps treat bacterial infections in dogs’ ears which is triggered because of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. This ingredient works by inhibiting the protein synthesis of the bacteria and it is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
  • Mometasone – is a corticosteroid which can reduce inflammation, irritation, and itching in the ear. It suppresses the immune system and production of inflammatory mediators. This is achieved because of its potent anti-puritic and anti-inflammatory effects. Mometasone combines with florfenicol and terbafine in a product called Osurnia which is applied in two doses one week apart.
  • Terbinafine – has anti-fungal properties which can treat fungal infections in dogs’ ears caused by Malssezia pachydermatitis. It interferes with the synthesis of ergosterol and is effective against both dermatophytes and yeasts. Terbinafine is combined with the terbinafine and florfenicol and is applied in two doses.
  • Glycerin – this is a moisturiser which helps soften and dissolve earwax buildup. Its soothing and lubricating effect helps retain and attract the water in the ear canal. Generally, it’s combined with benzyl alcohol in a product known as Curaseb. It is applied once or twice until the infection issue is resolved.
  • Benzyl alcohol – has a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and operates by disrupting the cell membrane and the metabolic processes of the bacteria. It is combined with glycerin to resolve infection issues.
  • Hydrocortisone – this corticosteroid helps relieve dogs from itching, inflammation, and irritation in the ear. The anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic effects of this ingredient suppress the immune system and the production of inflammatory mediators to provide dog relief from inflammation, irritation, or itching issues in the ear.
  • Chlorhexidine – is another antiseptic which can help kill the bacteria and germs in the ear.
  • Ketoconazole – is an antifungal helpful in treating fungal infections in the ear.

#2. Types and causes of ear problems

Different ear problems require different types of ear drops. Based on the infection issue your furry friend is suffering, you need to pick the type which will help you resolve the problem i.e. antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or anti-itch ear drops.

#3. Safety and effectiveness

When buying ear drops for your furry friend, make sure that they are safe for them and effective. If the ear drops are not effective or safe for the dog then, it could cause issues for the dog. Unsafe ear drops could cause issues like mites, infections, or allergies to dogs’ ears.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Dog Ear Drops

While buying ear drops for the dog, it’s important to consider the prices of the ear drops. The eardrops you buy should not exceed your budget and should also, resolve the issue your dog is facing. Below are some of the factors which affect the prices of the dog ear drops:

#1. Ingredients of the ear drops

The ingredients used in ear drops influence the prices significantly. Different ingredient compositions will have different prices. Based on the quality, quantity, and effectiveness, the prices keep varying. Let’s see how the composition of the ingredients affects the prices of the ear drops:

  • Ear drops that are made using benzoic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid are naturally available so, available at low prices. Drops containing these substances help in reducing moisture, relieve inflammation, and fight fungal infection.
  • The composition of ingredients like terbinafine, florfenicol, and mometasone furoate is more costly. These substances are synthetic and demand more complex manufacturing processes. Hence, the prices are higher.
  • Some dog ear drops have olive oil, and vitamin E, and are moderate in price. These ingredients are easily obtainable and are available for lower prices.

#2. Types of ear drops

To address different issues in dogs’ ears. For example, some ear drops are made to address the allergy issue while others might help deal with ear wax. So, based on this variance, you will find different dog ear drops in the market with different prices. Let’s understand how the types affect the prices:

  • Antibiotic ear drops retain strong substances which kill the bacteria and deal with the infection. Compared to non-biotic ear drops they are expensive and also, mandate a vet’s prescription.
  • Natural ear drops are cheaper than antibiotic ear drops as there is no presence of synthetic elements of high cots. Also, the availability of the material is easy and production is also simpler. Hence, low price.
  • Hydrocortisone is costlier than noin-hydrocortisone. This is mainly because of the steroid used in these ear drops, they can reduce inflammation and itching in dogs’ ears. However, these types of ear drops have side effects or interactions with other medications. So, consulting with the vet is a must before buying it.

#3. Quantity of ear drops

The prices of ear drops for dogs are highly influenced because of the quantity. Some infections or allergies might demand more use of ear drops. You may have to pay more to get eardrops that have more quantity. Yes, the prices may vary per brand but, the quantity of drops will have a significant say in the cost.

For example, dogs having mild or acute otitis external will only require a few drops (probably once or twice a day). The drops to deal with such mild issues will cost less as the quantity will be less. But, if the dog if the issue is moderate or extreme, the frequency of using the drops will be more. Thus, it will be expensive.

#4. Availability of the ear drops

Infection or allergy issues in the ear are common and many dog owners need ear drops to help their furry friends. Thus, it’s normal that there is a high demand for ear drops. However, if there is a specific brand whose demand is more, it will cost more.

This is obvious, given that there are many brands out there which provide ear-cleaning solutions to dog owners. Now, the common ingredients ear drops are easily available and of less price but, if there is an outbreak or peak season of ear infections in dogs, their prices get high as well.

Types of Dog Ear Drops

Till now, you saw the buying prospects, and factors affecting the prices of the ear drops. You may have observed one common prospect, types of dog ear drops. They are crucial buying prospects and significant factors affecting the price.

As a responsible dog owner, you need to consider these types and pick the one which will be helpful for your dog. Let’s have a detailed view of different types of ear drops for dogs:

#1. Antiseptic ear drops

This type of ear drops for dogs is helpful in killing the bacteria and germs in dogs’ ears to prevent infection. It has ingredients like chlorhexidine, silver sulfadiazine, or benzyl alcohol which help in treating mild to moderate ear infections or as a preventative measure after bathing the dog or swimming.

Here are some of the issues the ear drops will help resolve:

  • Otitis externa i.e. inflammation of the outer ear canal, triggered by yeast, fungi, mites, bacteria, or allergies.
  • Otitis media – the bacteria, year, fungi, or foreign bodies can cause inflammation in the middle ear.
  • Ear hematoma – collection of blood under the skin of the ear flap because of scratching or shaking.

Perks of using antiseptic ear drops

  • Kills microorganisms causing irritation or infection in the ear
  • Minimises risk of secondary infection or complications from untreated ear problems
  • Can help treat infections after exposure to moisture or water, which can form a favourable environment for fungi or bacteria

Drawbacks of using antiseptic ear drops

  • Dogs with sensitive skin may show allergic reactions, dryness, or irritation in some dogs
  • Might not be effective on some types of microorganisms like fungi or antibiotic-resistant bacteria

#2. Antifungal ear drops

Fungal infections in the ears of dogs are caused by the Malassezia pachydermatis or Candida albicans. The terbinafine, ketoconazole, or miconazole used in making antifungal ear drops helps in treating recurrent or chronic ear infections. These drops also come in handy when antiseptic ear drops prove to be ineffective.

The antifungal ear drops for dogs help in resolving the following issues:

  • Yeast otitis external – malassezia pachydermatis causes this infection
  • Candida otitis extrerna – rare fungal infection in dogs’ ears triggered by Candida albicans

Perks of using antifungal ear drops

  • Helps effectively treat fungal infections that are not responsive to antiseptic ear drops
  • Prevents reoccurrence or relapse of fungal infections by eliminating the fungal organisms from dogs’ ear canal
  • Infection, itching, inflammation, and bad odour are reduced

Drawbacks of using antifungal ear drop

  • Dogs with sensitive skin will face issues such as irritation, stinging, or burning
  • Not effective against mixed infections which involve both parasites or bacteria
  • Might interact with other medications and reduce the efficacy of or cause side effects

#3. Anti-inflammatory ear drops

Anti-inflammatory ear drops are useful in dealing with allergic or anti-inflammatory ear problems. So, it can be used on dogs who are facing issues like itching, inflammation, and irritation in their ear. They retain ingredients like mometasone, hydrocortisone, or dexamethasone which helps resolve these issues.

Further, the anti-inflammatory ear drops can come in handy for the following issues:

  • Allergic otitis externa – inflammation of the outer ear canal triggered due to the hypersensitivity to food or environmental allergens.
  • Traumatic otitis externa – inflammation of the outer ear canal caused by scratching, injury, or foreign bodies.
  • Otitis media – inflammation of the middle ear that is caused because of the infection, or inflammation from the outer ear canal.

Perks of using dog anti-inflammatory ear drops

  • Reduces swelling, pain, and redness in the ear
  • Opens up the ear canal and reduces the barrier to inflammation
  • Helps prevent complications like aural polyps, ear hematoma, or stenosis

Drawbacks of using dog anti-inflammatory ear drops

  • Prolonged usage or high doses could lead to side effects like skin atrophy, infection, or ulceration,
  • The masking of signs of inflammation or infection can delay the diagnosis or treatment of the underlying cause
  • May interact with other medications and reduce their effectiveness or, cause severe reactions

#4. Ear mite treatment drops

This eardrop can get rid of the tiny parasites i.e. ear mites that manifest in the ear canal causing inflammation, irritation, and infection issues. The substances present in ear mite drops include selamectin, ivermectin, or moxidectin.

Issues resolved by ear mite treatment drops

  • Otodectic otitis – this is the most common type of ear mite infection in dogs which happens because of Otodecetes Cynotis.
  • Notoedric mange – a rare type of mite infection caused by Notoedres cati.

Perks of using ear mite treatment drops

  • Can effectively eliminate the ear mites, and their eggs, and prevent reinfestation
  • Improve the symptoms of ear mite infections like itching, discharge or bad odour
  • Helps protect dogs’ ears from parasites like fleas, worms, or tick

Drawbacks of using ear mite treatment drops

  • Overdose of mite ear drops could lead to allergic reactions or toxicity in dogs
  • Dogs with severe infection issues might not get relief from the mite treatment drops

The above-mentioned ear drops for dogs are common and in the majority of cases, any one of those ear drops will work for treating infection in dogs’ ears. However, sometimes it’s possible that they might not work. So, for such cases, you can try using natural ear drops for your furry friend.

#5. Natural ear drops

The natural ear drops are made using ingredients like oils, herbs, or extracts. The ingredients used in natural ear drops have antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, or soothing properties. They are safer compared to other ear drops. It can help contain ear mite issues, ear wax removal, ear odour control, or ear pH balance.

Perks of using natural ear drops

  • Cheaper compared to synthetic ear drops
  • Less side effects even after interaction with other medications
  • Natural ingredients in drops could also help in dealing with other prospects
  • A safer option compared to the antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or ear mite ear drops

Drawbacks of using natural ear drop

  • Less consistent in terms of results
  • Might not work for severe infection issues
  • Not every natural ear drop is regulated or tested by authorities

How to Put Ear Drops in a Dog?

To make sure that your furry friend gets relief from the ear infection issue or other related problems, you need to use it properly. You need to use the drops effectively to leverage the benefits. But, before you proceed with using ear drops, make sure you have the right ones or, prescribed by the vet.

Below are some tips you can consider for using the drops:

#1. Choose a comfortable place for the dog

You want your furry friend to obey and allow you to use the ear drops so, it’s important to choose a location where dogs feel comfortable. This will make sure there is less resistance from the dog’s side when you try putting some drops into the dog’s ear. You need to check their ear first and see whether the ear has dirt, wax, or debris.

#2. Gently lift the dogs’ ear flap

Before you use the drops, gently lift your dog’s ear flap. Make sure you don’t force it on your furry friend. If they feel anxious seeing the drops, they might scratch or bite you. Slowly lift the flaps and try using the ear drops.

#3. Use the eardrops

Squeeze the bottle gently and allow drops to get into the ear canal of the dog. Keep holding the ear flap to make sure the drops get in properly. Holding the ear flap is crucial as a dog might not like the sensation and resist or try to get away. Aim the bottle of drops near the canal but don’t insert it. The dog might feel discomfort or sustain injury.

#4. Rub the base of the ear against the head

To distribute the ear drops inside the canal, you need to rub the base of your furry friend’s ear and rub it against the head. Once you do this, there will be a squishing sound as well. A dog might not like the squishing and possibly get aggressive.

#5. Release the ear flap

After you use the drops, release the ear flap. The dog will shake their head and it will remove the excessive ear drops and dirt or debris from the dog’s ear. Now, if there is some dirt, or debris left in the ear then, you can use a cloth to clean the ear.

Remember, you need to consult the vet before you use the ear drops for your furry friend. They will suggest the best possible option and also suggest the frequency of the use.

Benefits of using ear drops properly

If you manage to follow the tips on using ear drops for dogs then, you might leverage the following benefits:

  • Prevents infection – Ear drops help in treating or stopping ear infections that are triggered due to bacteria, yeast, or fungi. The drops contain antifungals, antibiotics, or both which can kill the microorganisms that are causing the infection. The anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain in the ear canal. In addition, they also help in discharging the pus out of the ear and increase the speed of healing.
  • Less inflammation – The hydrocortisone present in the ear drops suppresses the immune response and helps reduce the inflammation in the ear. Some of the ear drops also have soothing agents like aloe vera, which helps moisturise the irritated skin near the ear canal. Also, the pH and moisture balance in dogs’ ears is restored.
  • Remove wax, debris, or mites – dirt, mites, or excessive wax can compromise dogs’ hearing. Ear drops help in reducing the wax and other organisms. The acaricides in ear drops help in killing or repelling mites or other parasites. Ear drops with the ceruminolytics, dissolve or soften the ear wax and make it easy to get rid of the dirt or moisture which can harbour bacteria.
  • Maintains healthy pH – many ear drops have probiotics and it can help in maintaining the pH and microbiome.

Drawbacks of Using Ear Drops for Dogs

While there are plenty of benefits of using ear drops for dogs, there are quite a few drawbacks as well. You need to be aware of the possible issues that come with using ear drops for dogs. Below are some of the drawbacks of using the ear drops for dogs:

#1. Not suitable for all ear infection

Normally, ear drops used for dogs resolve the majority of the ear infection issues they might face. But, at times, the severity of the infection is more and using the ear drop will not be enough. In fact, if dog owners use ear drops in such situations then instead of improving the existing condition, they might end up making it worse.

In such cases, the ear infection will require oral or injectable antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antifungals, or even surgery.

#2.Risk of side effects

The ingredients used in certain dog ear drops might cause allergic reactions in some dogs, especially if they have sensitive skin. For instance, substances like alcohol, essential oils, or vinegar may lead to swelling, redness, pain, itching, or discharge in the ears.

In addition, there is also a risk of ear drops interacting with other medications and causing issues for the dog. So, if your dog is on antihistamines, immunosuppressants, or steroids then, using the ear drops may lead to unwanted side effects.

#3. Difficult to administer

Normally, the design of dog ear drops allows dog owners to easily use them on dogs. Some of the dogs might not like the sensation felt after the drops go in. They might resist, and struggle, and applying the ear drops will get tough to the affected area.

These are some of the drawbacks you might face while using ear drops for dogs. Also, ear drops for dogs are slightly costly and some of them might even require a prescription from the vet.

#4. Cost and Availability

The ear drops prescribed by the vet are sometimes not available easily. It makes it difficult for dog owners to get the exact prescription. Also, some of the ear drops have high prices which makes buying the exact ear drops more challenging.

Ear Drops for Dogs Pets at Home

Sometimes, dog owners consider formulating ear drops for dogs at home itself. This is either due to lack of availability, budget constraints, or the ear infection is minor so, the vet might have suggested the use of natural ingredients to treat the issue.

There are different recipes for dog owners to consider when making ear drops for dogs at home. Some of the common ingredients in this recipe consist of witch hazel, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, boric acid, and essential oils. Below are some of the recipes you can consider to make ear drops for dogs at home:

#1. Boric acid and vinegar

This homemade ear drops recipe for dogs will wash the ear and lower the pH. Low pH will reduce the growth of fungi or bacteria. It will also help in dissolving the ear wax and get rid of the debris. Here are the things you’ll need:

  • 1/4 cup of vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 2 tablespoons of boric acid
  • A container with a lid
  • An eyedropper or a syringe

Once you have these items, start mixing the water and vinegar in a container. After the mixture is formed, add boric acid. Allow it to mix properly. Now, using a syringe or an eyedropper, you can squirt the mixture into your dog’s ear. Massage the base of your dogs’ ears and allow them to shake off the mixture.

#2. Witch hazel and hydrogen peroxide

The mix of hazel and hydrogen peroxide will help to kill the bacteria and fungi which can cause ear infections. In addition, it can also help in reducing the irritation and inflammation in the ear canal. However, it may dry out or bleach dogs’ fur so, needs to be used precisely. Gather up the following things:

  • 1/2 cup of witch hazel
  • 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide
  • A container and a cotton ball

Take the container and mix hydrogen peroxide and witch hazel in the mix. Once mixed, use a cotton ball to apply the solution to the dog’s ear and the inner flap gently. Avoid putting the cotton ball into the ear canal as it could get stuck and cause issues for the dog.

#3. Essential oil eardrops

Ear drops with essential oils can help relax and calm dogs’ ears. The antifungal, antibacterial, or anti-inflammatory properties of the eardrops will rely on the type of essential oil that is used. However, some dogs are sensitive or allergic to the essential oils so, crucial to conduct a patch test before using them. You’ll need the following things:

  • Lavender, chamomile, or tea tree oil
  • Carrier oil like coconut or olive oil
  • Eyedropper or syringe

Dilute the essential oil with carrier oil in a container. Now, take the eyedropper or syringe and put a few drops of oil in the mix into the dog’s ear. Use a syringe or eyedropper to put some drops of the oil mixture into dogs’ ears.

Perks of using homemade eardrops for dogs

  • Natural elements are used in making ear drops for dogs at home
  • Safer compared to ear drops made using synthetic substances
  • Allows dog owners to adjust the mixture as per the antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, or soothing properties of the ingredients

Drawbacks of using homemade ear drops for dogs

  • Might not be effective for some ear infection conditions
  • The possibility of side effects is minimal but, still, the ingredients used in the mix can cause swelling, itching, redness, or discharge in dogs’ ear
  • Storing homemade eardrops is difficult. Also, their shelf life is shorter than the commercial ear drops you use for the dog.

FAQs for Best Ear Drops for Dogs

How much will the best dog ear drops cost in the UK?

You can expect to pay between £5 and £25 for the best dog ear drops in the UK. Based on the brand, type, quality, and quantity of the ear drops, the prices may elevate. The ingredients used in the ear drops and the quantity play a significant role in influencing the prices. Also, some of the dog ear drops are made using high-quality materials to meet specific requirements or resolve a specific condition. Hence, prices for such eardrops will remain high.

Are there any dog breeds which will resist the use of ear drops?

Yes, there are plenty of dog breeds which might resist the use of ear drops. For example, breeds like Bloodhounds, Beagles, and Dachshunds have strong working, or hunting instincts so, the slightest sound or scent distracts them. Thus, when you take the drops near them they might try to escape or ignore them. Small dog breeds such as chihuahua, poodle, or shih tzus feel anxious, shy, or fearful when ear drops are applied. They might also not like the smell of it so, will resist them. In addition, dog breeds like cocker spaniels, basset hounds, and Labradoodles are the ones who are prone to recurrent ear problems and will comprehend ear drops as a bad thing due to the discomfort they face. But, remember, resistance from these breeds doesn’t imply all the other dogs will also resent the use of ear drops. In fact, with proper training, you can use ear drops for these dog breeds as well.

How often should I use ear drops for my dog?

The frequency of using ear drops solely relies on factors like severity of infection, type of ear drops, or vet’s instruction. For instance, some ear infections might only demand the use of ear drops once or twice within a day. Whereas, if the infection is severe or the vet suggests using more times or drops per day then it varies accordingly. Also, the manufacturer of the ear drops provides details of using ear drops on packing to ensure efficient use of the ear drops and keep dogs safe. You can follow those instructions as the ear drops manufactured are also vet-verified and tested on different dogs.

My dog tries to bite me when I put ear drops, what should I do?

While applying ear drops for dogs, their aggressive behaviour such as biting or scratching can be frustrating. You are trying to help and they consider the ear drop bottle as a threat. So, it’s important for you to maintain calmness. There are plenty of reasons why the dog would exhibit such behaviour while you use the ear drops. For example, they are suffering extreme pain, inflammation, or injury near the ear. So, the touch of drops might make them more uncomfortable and they react aggressively. Some dogs have anxiety issues and might fear the ear drops bottle. Regardless, it’s best to consult the vet and get tips on handling such behaviour. You can also try using positive reinforcements to contain the aggressive behaviour and also, train them to get used to ear drops.

Final Remarks on Best Ear Drops for Dogs

Ear infections can cause issues for dogs and make them miserable. Dog owners need to use the best ear drops for their dogs to help them deal with infection issues. Using random ear drops could prove to be costly so, make sure you avoid selecting a random bottle of ear drops for your furry friend. The best ear drops for dogs will include substances which help eliminate bacteria, yeast, or fungi.

Ear drops also relieve dogs from itching, pain, inflammation, and pain in the ear canal. In addition, the composition of the substances used in these ear drops is safe for dogs. But, it is recommended that you consult with the vet before you plan on buying one. Because different symptoms will require different types of ear drops for the dog.

So, make sure you buy the right dog ear drops and help your furry friend recover from ear infection issues. I keep emphasizing this aspect as many dogs are allergic to some ingredients present in the ear drops. If you are not cautious, your furry friend could suffer some significant allergies.

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About
Jacob Kay
Jacob Kay is a Veterinary Advisor and Editor at WWD. He’s also a dog lover and has two pet dogs of his own. He has extensive knowledge in the field of veterinary medicine and is always happy to share his insights with others.

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