Boston terriers are one of the cutest dogs around. But as a pet boarding expert for many years, I have to say that Boston Terriers can be a lot of work to take care of. One of the things that you have to pay attention to is their ears.
To properly clean the ears of your Boston Terrier, you will need an ear cleaning solution and cotton balls, among other supplies. Using a cotton ball and your finger, you should be able to clean your dog’s ear, but the solution should not get into the delicate structures, such as the ear canal.
In this post, I will walk you through the complete step-by-step process for cleaning your Boston terrier’s ears. Plus, you will learn other key insights you should know when cleaning Boston Terrier ears. Before anything else, let me shed some light on why you should clean your Boston Terrier’s ears in the first place:
Why Should You know How to Clean Boston Terrier Ears?
If you do not clean your Boston Terrier’s ears, several things could happen. The most common problem is that ear wax and other debris can build up inside the ear canal, causing irritation and even infection. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage to the ear canal and even deafness.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to the brain and other body parts, which can be fatal. Therefore, it is extremely important to clean your Boston Terrier’s ears on a regular basis to prevent these problems from occurring.
Here are some signs of ear infection in Boston Terriers:
Signs of Ear Infection
There are a few different signs that may indicate your Boston Terrier has an ear infection. One of the most common signs is persistent scratching at the affected ear or head shaking.
You may also notice your dog holding its head to one side or tilting it frequently. If the infection is severe, you may see discharge from the ear or notice a bad odor coming from the ear.
In some cases, your dog’s appetite may decrease and it may seem lethargic. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your dog to the vet for an evaluation and treatment.
How Often Should Your Clean Boston Terrier Ears?
Ear infections are common in dogs, but they can be prevented with regular cleaning and good ear health habits. It is recommended that you clean your dog’s ears once a week.
If you notice that your dog is scratching his or her ears more than usual, has redness or swelling, or there is a bad odor coming from the ears, this could be a sign of an infection. Contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of these symptoms.
What Ear Cleaning Essentials Do You Need for Boston Terrier?
You will need the following essentials for cleaning Boston Terrier ears:
Cotton Balls
Use soft, fresh cotton balls for cleaning your Boston Terrier’s ears. Avoid using Q-tips, as they can damage the ear canal.
Ear Cleaning Solution
There are many commercial ear cleaners available, or you can make your own solution by mixing one part white vinegar with one part water.
Gauze Pads or Cloths
You need gauze pads or cloths to apply the ear cleaning solution and remove any dirt or debris from your dog’s ears.
Tweezers
Tweezers will be needed in case you need to remove any foreign objects from your dog’s ear. Never insert anything into the ear canal itself.
Ear Powder
This is optional, but some people like to use ear powder to help keep the area dry after cleaning.
Treats
Treats are optional, but definitely appreciated by your Boston Terrier!
Once you have gathered the aforementioned supplies, you can move on to the ear cleaning process. To simplify things, we have broken down the task into steps:
9 Steps to Clean Boston Terrier Ears
Step 1: Choose a Liquid Cleaner
Use a mild, pH-balanced solution that is alcohol and dye free. Look for something that is safe for use around the eyes, which will also be sensitive. You can find these solutions at most pet stores.
Step 2: Get the Dog Ready
Have your dog sit or lie down in a comfortable position. If he is resistant to having his ears cleaned, try using treats as positive reinforcement.
Step 3: Test the Cleaner
Before using the solution on your dog’s ears, it is important to test it out first. Apply a small amount to the inside of your own elbow and wait a few minutes to see if there is any reaction.
Step 4: Apply the Cleaner to the Ear
Using a cotton ball or pad, apply the solution to the inside of the dog’s ear. Be sure to avoid getting any in the ear canal.
Step 5: Plug the Dog’s Ear
Once the ear has been cleansed, plug the ear with a cotton ball to prevent any solution from getting into the ear canal.
Step 6: Gently Massage the Ear
With the ear plugged, gently massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to help loosen any debris.
Step 7: Clean Out the Ear
Using a cotton ball or pad, remove any solution and debris from the ear. Be sure to dispose of the used materials properly.
Step 8: Dry the Ear
Use a clean, dry cotton ball or pad to remove any moisture from the ear.
Step 9: Repeat on the Other Ear
Repeat the steps above on the other ear.
Depending on the condition of your dog’s ears, you may need to repeat the steps above weekly or bi-weekly. If you have any concerns, be sure to consult with your veterinarian. In certain situations, ear cleaning may not be a good idea. Let us find out what those situations can be:
Situations When You Should Not Clean Boston Terrier Ears
Here are three situations when you should not clean your Boston Terrier’s ears:
When They are Already Clean
If your Boston Terrier’s ears are already clean, there is no need to try and clean them again. This could actually end up causing more harm than good.
When They are Wet
Cleaning your Boston Terrier’s ears while wet can cause them to become even more irritated. It is best to wait until their ears are completely dry before attempting to clean them.
When They are Inflamed or Irritated
If your Boston Terrier’s ears are inflamed or otherwise irritated, cleaning them could only worsen the situation. It is best to leave their ears alone until the irritation has subsided.
Conclusion
Boston terriers are a great breed of dog, but they do require some special care. One important part of their care is keeping their ears clean. This post outlined how to clean your Boston terrier’s ears and what to watch out for. I truly hope you find this information helpful!
If you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your Boston terrier’s ears, please do not hesitate to contact us. We love helping our clients take the best possible