Dog Earwax Color Chart

Cleaning Your Dog’s Earwax

Despite ear cleaning being essential to a dog’s hygiene, many pet parents avoid cleaning their dog’s ears. If you’re in this category, we’ve got you covered. We’ve broken down the ear cleaning process into a few simple steps:

1. Fortunately, you don’t need special or expensive tools to clean your dog’s ears. Instead, you’ll gather real cotton balls or gauze and a vet-approved ear cleaning solution. Other cleaning agents may contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that irritate your dog’s ears. Make sure to also avoid cotton swabs to prevent damaging the ear canal or drum and pushing earwax further into the ear.
2. Position your dog in front of you and fill their ear canal with the cleaning solution for 30 seconds. Then, gently massage around the base of the ear for approximately 40 seconds. To prevent contamination, don't let the tip of the applicator touch the inside of your dog’s ears. If this happens, wipe the tip off with alcohol.
3. Allow your dog to vigorously shake their head and remove all of the solution from their ears. This will loosen the earwax, making it easier to clean up.
4. Use the cotton balls to wipe the waxy debris out from the ears. 
5. Repeat steps 2, 3, and 4 a minimum of four or five times until no further waxy debris is found on the cotton balls. Repeating the steps allows you to provide your dog with a more thorough cleaning. 
6. Don’t forget to reward your dog for cooperating!

Some dogs may need more ear cleaning than others, especially if they’re more prone to ear infections or wax build-up, while others may never need their ears cleaned2. A vet can guide you to determine a cleaning schedule that works for you and your pet. Once a schedule is in place, you’ll be able to notice changes in your dog’s ears or wax easily. It’s also a great idea to start cleaning your dog’s ears when he is a puppy so he will be used to the cleanings as he gets older.

Remember, your dog's ears should appear pink and be free of foul-smelling odors or discharge. You also don’t want to clean too often as that can result in irritation or an infection2.  And, if you notice any pain while cleaning your dog’s ears, stop what you’re doing and contact your veterinarian. 

If your anxious dog stresses about ear cleanings, use the following tips to make the process easier:

• Play with your dog or go on a walk to tire them out before the ear cleaning 
• Distract your pet with treats, such as peanut butter or canned food
• Start slowly and take breaks if your dog is showing signs of stress
• Desensitize your dog by introducing them to the ear cleaning materials and practice handling their ears
• Have a professional clean their ears

When to See a Vet

Ultimately, the only way to tell if earwax is normal is by watching out for signs of a dog ear infection, including inflammation, redness, frequent head shaking, head tilting, scratching, or discomfort. If your dog is experiencing symptoms of an ear infection, make sure to visit your veterinarian. Sometimes, inflammation may not be present on the outer portion of the ear, so a vet will have to conduct a proper exam using an otoscope (an instrument to look in the ear). 

Dog ear infections can arise for several reasons, such as:

• Dog allergies—Food, flea, or environmental allergies can affect your dog’s ears and cause repeat ear infections.
• Ear mites—Small, spider-like parasites that are attracted to earwax and thrive in the dark environment ear canals provide. Most often, mites will be so tiny you can’t see them without the right equipment, so a trip to the vet is necessary. 

Once the vet has determined the root of your dog’s ear infection, they can prescribe treatment and help your dog bounce back from their condition. With Dutch, you can get your dog’s ears checked out virtually and receive treatment for ear infections caused by allergies right to your doorstep. 

Dog Earwax Color: Frequently Asked Questions

With so much information about dog earwax and ear cleaning, it can be difficult to know what’s helpful and what isn’t. We’ve answered some frequently asked questions about dog earwax below to guide you.

What color should my dog’s earwax be?

Earwax ranges from yellowish to light brown to even black—all of which can be associated with an ear infection. Ideally, your dog’s ear should be a healthy pink color and be free of redness, discharge, and odors. Look out for other notable dog ear infection symptoms, including head shaking, ear scratching, and ear rubbing on the floor or other surfaces. 

Why is my dog’s earwax dark brown?

While light brown earwax is completely normal, dark-colored earwax can signify a yeast or bacterial infection. If you notice dark brown wax in your dog’s ears, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinary professional for guidance. 

What are the typical signs of a dog ear infection?

Typical signs of a dog ear infection include:

• Head shaking 
• Unpleasant odor 
• Red skin 
• Discharge 
• Inflammation 
• Excessive ear scratching 

If you’re concerned about an ear infection, refer to our ear infection drainage dog earwax color chart.

Final Notes

There’s no denying the importance of your dog’s earwax. After all, it’s what keeps dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles out of the ear canal and drum. While healthy earwax ranges in color, consistency, and quantity, it’s vital to watch for signs of infection, such as inflammation, discharge, redness, pain, and swelling. It’s also a good idea to regularly check and clean your dog’s ears to help get the gunk out.

Did you notice a sudden change in your dog’s earwax color due to environmental, flea, or food allergies? Visit our ear health resource page to learn care tips and how Dutch can help treat a variety of ear health conditions from unusual ear wax to infections.