February 10, 2006, Newsletter Issue #122: Q&A: Grooming a
Dog´s Ears

Tip of the Week

Q: What care must I take when grooming a dog´s ears to avoid dog infection?

A: I am not a veterinarian or dog groomer, so I am doing some online research to augment my own experience with dog care. We own Siberian Huskies, a natural breed. A groomer would seldom if ever remove hair from the inside of a Siberian´s ear because that hair naturally protects the ear and keeps it warm.

I don´t know what breeds you are grooming, and if hair removal is typically done for those breeds. Perhaps you are talking about poodles, terriers and other small dogs. But I think you may be right, that this hair removal is irritating the ear or introducing germs while you are working. Also, are you taking care to dry the dog´s ears? Moist conditions can promote infections. Here are some additional online resources for you:

Here is a thorough article on grooming a dog´s ears. Note the specific recommendation on a groomer´s limitations on hair removal -- and what should be handled by a veterinarian.
http://www.petgroomer.com/Grooming101/Articles/ear_cleaning-revised.htm

This article suggests use of cotton to keep water out of the ear, and notes that one reason for infections in lop-earred dogs is the failure to get the dog´s ears dry. The moist conditions promote infections.
http://www.planet-pets.com/doggrooming.htm

Here is advice on grooming including ear care. Note the advice to avoid probing very deep into the ear!
http://www.caws.org/dog-grooming.html

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