How To Clean Basset Hound Ears
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Basset Hound Ears – Homemade Ear Cleaner Solutions and Cleaning Methods to Clean Your Basset Ears
A Basset Hound’s ears are some his most distinguishing features. They are flappy, soft, and often bigger that their faces. Basset Hounds make the best puppy dog expression with their flappy ears and pleading eyes. You can hardly say no to these cuties.
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While their flappy ears make them unique, the ears are also some of the hardest things to clean. This is especially true with Basset Hound puppies who are so tiny, their ears tend to reach the floor when they walk. This in turn tracks dirt into their ears which can cause bacteria and other disgusting things on the ground get transferred to your dog’s ears. This could become causes for infection, wounds on your dog’s ears and so many more. This is why it is important to clean your dog’s ears as much as possible.
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Cleaning your Basset Hound’s ears require patience and consistency. You must establish this ear cleaning routine early on in your dog’s life so that it would not be as hard to teach him when he grows up. Here are some of the best ways to clean your dog’s flappy ears:
- Ask your vet for a demo – your veterinarian is the best person to teach you how to properly clean your Basset Hound’s ears. Go and visit him the first time you get your dog and ask him to teach you how to clean his ears. Seeing the cleaning process first hand will help you understand what you need to do and how you’re going to do it.
- Buy the right tools – a dog’s ear is different from human ears. You should get products that are suitable for cleaning dog ears. A ready-made ear cleaner is available at most pet stores. If you are unable to find one at your local pet store, ask your vet if he has ear cleaners for sale in his clinic. Ear cleaners are also available online. Buy them from legitimate sellers only. Cotton wool pads are your best bets for cleaning Basset Hound ears.
- Wash your hands and make sure to clean your dog’s ears in a clean environment – your hands can have germs that could get into your dog’s ears while you are cleaning them. Make sure to clean your hands prior to cleaning your dog’s ears.
The space where you clean your dog’s ears should also be clean. If you clean it in a place where his flappy ears are likely to fall into dirt again, you’ll end up in an infinite loop of endless cleaning. Make sure that the area is also well lit.
- Start with the cleansing pad – soak the pad with ear cleaner. Squeeze out the excess liquid so it won’t get inside your Basset Hound’s ears. Make sure that the pad is not dripping in ear cleaner before you use it on your dog’s ears.
- Wipe the flappy part of the ear – flip your dog’s ears over his head to keep them stable. Some people prefer to hold the ears in midair. Others like to make their dog lie down and spread their ears on the table. Any of these methods are fine so long as you are able to clean his ears thoroughly.
Gently wipe the inside of the flappy part with the ear cleaner solution. Soothing words from you may also help your dog relax. Once the pads become dirty, discard them and don’t use them again. Do the same for the other ear until both ears are clean.
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After wiping the ears with the solution, let them sit for a few minutes. Wipe the ear canal of your dog’s ears using a new cleanser soaked pad. Clean only the parts that you can reach. Do not attempt to go deeper to ensure that you don’t push in bacteria and dirt into your dog’s inner ear.
- Check for ear problems – if you notice that your dog’s ears have nicks, cuts and scrapes, have him looked at by a vet. These may become infected if they are exposed o more dirt and bacteria.
If you see a yellowish discharge from your dog’s ear accompanied by a not so pleasant odor, have your vet check your dog for ear infections. A healthy dog ear should be pinkish in color. If you find your dog’s ear in a different color, it may be a sign of infection.
- Praise your dog for staying still – tell your dog what a good boy he is for sitting still while you clean his ears. Repeat the same process on the other ear.
The health of your Basset Hound’s ears will depend on your patience and ability. Keep practicing on how to clean your dog’s ears and you’ll get the hang of it sooner or later. Ask other family members to check out how you clean your dog’s ears so that in case you are out of town, somebody can clean his ears for you.
The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog in the hound family. They are popularly known for their long ears, gentle nature, and comical personality. While their floppy ears are their signature look, they can also be a source of discomfort and infection if not regularly cleaned.
Why is it important to clean your Basset Hound’s ears?
Regular ear cleansing is important for Basset Hounds as their long ears can trap dirt, bacteria, and moisture. If this buildup is not regularly cleaned, it can lead to painful and uncomfortable infections. Additionally, ear cleansing helps to keep your hound’s ears healthy and free of unpleasant odors.
How to Clean Basset hound Ears
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before you start, you will want to make sure you have the right supplies. You will need cotton and an ear-cleansing solution. Make sure to use an ear-cleaning solution specifically made for dogs. You can find this at most pet stores.
Step 2: Preparation
Before you begin, you will want to make sure your hound is in a comfortable position. It is best to have them sit or lay down, and then reward them with a treat for staying still throughout the process.
Step 3: Clean the Ears
Dampen a cotton sponge with the ear-cleaning solution and gently wipe the inside of the ear. Be careful not to go too far into the ear as this may cause discomfort or injury. You can also use a cotton swab to get into the crevices of the ear. Make sure to wipe away any dirt or debris that you find.
Step 4: Dry the Ears
Once you have finished cleaning the ears, use a dry cotton ball to remove any excess ear-cleaning solution. This will help to prevent any irritation or infection.
Ear cleaning, while simple, can get messy.
Ear cleansing for dogs, while simple, can get messy. It is important to clean your dog’s ears regularly to help prevent infection and other problems. The process is fairly straightforward and can be done at home. First, it is important to use a good quality ear-cleaning solution that is specifically made for dogs. Apply the solution to a cotton ball and gently wipe it inside the ear. Make sure to wipe away any debris or wax that you find. After a few minutes, use a dry cotton ball to remove any excess solution. If your dog is exhibiting any signs of infection or inflammation, it is best to consult a veterinarian before attempting to clean its ears.
While ear cleansing may seem simple, it is important to do it correctly in order to prevent any complications or discomfort for your dog. It is also important to remember that this should only be done as needed and not on a regular basis. If you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your dog’s ears, it is best to consult with a vet for the best advice.
Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has an ear infection.
If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, contact your vet right away. Ear infections can be very painful for your pet, and prompt medical attention is necessary to treat and prevent further complications. Symptoms of an ear infection can include frequent shaking or scratching of the ears, redness or swelling of the ear flap, a yellow or bloody discharge, a foul smell emanating from the ear, or a sense of fullness in the ear. If you notice any of these signs, call your vet to arrange an appointment. They will be able to examine your pet’s ears to determine if an infection is present, and provide the proper treatment. Depending on the severity of the infection, the vet may prescribe medications such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents, or recommend other forms of treatment. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. It is important to follow the vet’s advice and instructions carefully to ensure a full and quick recovery for your pet.
Some of the potential ear problems in Basset hounds to look out for
Basset hounds are considered to be a healthy breed of dog, however, they are prone to a variety of ear problems due to their long, floppy ears. Some of the potential ear problems to look out for include:
- Otitis Externa: Commonly known as ear infections, this occurs when bacteria, fungi, or mites get into the ear and cause inflammation and discharge. This can be caused by allergies, too much moisture in the ear, or foreign objects such as grass seeds.
- Ear Mites: These tiny parasites can cause irritation and inflammation in the ear. Symptoms may include dark discharge, odor, and itching. Treatment usually consists of ear drops or oral medications.
- Wax Buildup: Hounds have naturally long ears, which can cause the wax to accumulate and block the ear canal, leading to hearing loss and infection. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the ears can help prevent this problem.
- Canine Atopy/Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation of the ear canal, leading to itching and discharge. Treating allergies can help reduce the symptoms and prevent infection.
- Aural Hematoma: This is caused by a buildup of fluid in the ear flap, usually due to scratching or shaking the head too forcefully. This can be treated with drainage or surgery, depending on the severity.
Best hound ear cleaning products
Basset hounds are known for their long, drooping ears, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria and debris. Clean ears are essential for their health and comfort. Luckily, there are a variety of ear-cleaning products on the market designed to help keep your hound’s ears healthy and odor-free. Here are some of the best hound ear cleansing products available:
- Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash: Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash is a gentle and soothing ear cleaning solution specifically formulated for dogs. It is made with natural ingredients including tea tree oil and aloe vera to help keep your hound’s ears neat and free of debris. It also has a pleasant, natural scent that won’t overpower your basset hound’s sensitive nose.
- Petpost cleansing wipes: Petpost ear cleansing Wipes and cleaning solution are great for quickly and effectively cleaning your basset hound’s ears. These pre-moistened wipes are made with natural ingredients including aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile to help soothe and nourish your basset hound’s ears. They are easy to use and can help keep your basset hound’s ears neat and odor-free.
- VetWell Ear Cleanser: VetWell Ear Cleaner is a gentle and effective ear cleanser specifically designed for dogs. It is made with natural ingredients including tea tree oil and chamomile to help soothe your basset hound’s ears and remove wax, dirt, and debris. It has a pleasant, natural scent that won’t bother your basset hound’s sensitive nose.
These are just a few of the best ear-cleansing products available. No matter which product you choose, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and consult your vet if you have any questions or concerns.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your Basset Hound’s ears is an important part of their overall health and well-being. With the right supplies, a comfortable position, and a little patience, you can keep their ears healthy and free of unpleasant odors.
