We want to use the year of 2025 to help educate other dood (or any dog really) owners on the best care and little tips we’ve learned along the way. Today we are going to chat a little about those adorable floppy ears that can be testy at times. I think our routine is what keeps our dog’s ears free from the irritations we find other dog owners can battle.
As any poodle or doodle owner can attest, those adorable, floppy and fluffy ears can be a blessing and a curse. While they add to the charm and cuteness, they also create a warm, moist environment that can be prone to irritation and infection. If you’re tired of dealing with red, itchy ears on your furry friend, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll explore the common issue of ear irritations in floppy earred pups and discuss a natural, homeopathic solution to keep those ears healthy and happy.
The Problem with Floppy Ears
Doodles, with their beautiful, floppy ears, can be more susceptible to ear irritations due to the following reasons:
- Moisture accumulation: The floppy design of their ears creates a warm, humid environment that’s perfect for bacterial and fungal growth.
- Trapped debris: The furry interior of their ears can trap dirt, dust, and other debris, leading to irritation and infection.
- Lack of airflow: The closed design of their ears restricts airflow, making it difficult for the ears to dry properly after bathing, swimming, or playing in the rain.
The Consequences of Untreated Ear Irritations
If left untreated, ear irritations can lead to more serious issues, including:
- Ear infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause painful, smelly ears that may require antibiotics or antifungal medications.
- Chronic inflammation: Repeated ear irritations can lead to chronic inflammation, causing the ears to become red, swollen, and painful.
A Natural Solution: Witch Hazel and Apple Cider Vinegar
Fortunately, there’s a simple, natural solution to help prevent ear irritations and promote healthy ears. After drying your dog’s ears thoroughly, especially after bathing or swimming, use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently wipe the inside of the ear with a mixture of:
- Witch hazel: A natural astringent that helps to reduce inflammation and dry out the ear canal.
- Apple cider vinegar: A natural antifungal and antibacterial agent that helps to balance the ear’s pH and prevent infection.
Mix 1 part witch hazel with 1 part apple cider vinegar, and gently wipe the inside of the ear, avoiding the ear drum. This solution will help to:
- Dry the ear canal: Reducing the risk of bacterial and fungal growth.
- Reduce inflammation: Soothing red, irritated ears and promoting healing.
- Prevent infection: Balancing the ear’s pH and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi.
Irritations can be common issue with floppy ears, but with the right care and attention, you can help prevent these problems and promote healthy, happy ears. By incorporating witch hazel and apple cider vinegar into your dog’s ear care routine, you’ll be taking a natural, proactive approach to preventing ear irritations and ensuring your furry friend stays comfortable and content.
We know that some people pluck the hair in the inner ears or have their groomer do so; personally we trim short with a scissors but never pluck as we’ve found that is not necessary and in our years of research that can often lead to the very problem you’re trying to prevent. At Pasatiempo Ranch we only have one dog that we need to keep a watchful eye on the floppy ears. Along the way we incorporated our witch hazel and apple cider vinegar routine every few weeks as part of our overall grooming schedule for each dog in our pack. During summer months our swimmers or dogs who love to play in the water/hose/splashpad get weekly ear wipe downs to keep their ears healthy.
We hope this information can help our fellow dog lovers and help keep those ears moisture free and healthy! As always if you have any questions please feel free to reach out whether you own one of our pups or not. Xoxo