How Often Should I Clean My Old English Sheepdog’s Ears & How Should I Clean Them?

The Old English Sheepdog (OES) is a breed recognized for its voluminous, shaggy coat, and while this coat is undeniably endearing, it can also present grooming challenges, particularly concerning ear care. Let’s delve into the intricacies of cleaning your OES’s ears and the role allergies might play in this process.

Frequency of Ear Cleaning for Old English Sheepdog:

Determining the frequency of ear cleaning will depend on your OES’s specific needs, health conditions, and lifestyle, but here are some general guidelines:

Routine Maintenance: A bi-weekly ear check and cleaning is advisable. Given the Sheepdog’s hair density, debris and moisture can accumulate, making regular cleaning essential.
After Water Activities: If your OES enjoys swimming or gets caught in the rain, always check and potentially clean the ears to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to infections.
Allergies: If your OES suffers from allergies, monitoring and possibly increasing the frequency of ear cleanings can be beneficial.

Steps to Clean Your Old English Sheepdog’s Ears:

Prepare Supplies: Always have a high-quality, dog-specific ear cleaning solution on hand, along with cotton balls or pads. Refrain from using cotton swabs, as they might push debris further in or damage the eardrum.
Comfort is Key: Make sure your OES is relaxed. Due to their patient nature, with gentle coaxing, ear cleaning can be a stress-free process for both of you.
Inspect the Ears: Before you begin, take a moment to visually inspect the ears. Look for signs of redness, swelling, excessive wax, or any unusual discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, it might indicate an infection, and a vet visit is in order.
Apply Cleaning Solution: Hold the ear flap up to expose the ear canal. Pour in the cleaning solution until the ear canal is filled but not overflowing.
Massage the Base: Gently massage the base of the ear for about 20-30 seconds. This will help to break up debris inside.
Allow Your Dog to Shake: After massaging, let your OES shake its head. This natural response helps expel the solution and the dislodged debris.
Clean the Ear’s Surface: Using your cotton ball or pad, wipe the inner surface of the ear flap and the entrance of the ear canal. Never push the cotton deep into the ear.
Offer Praise and Rewards: Positive reinforcement will make future ear cleanings easier. Provide your OES with a treat or some affectionate petting.

The Role of Allergies in Ear Cleaning for Old English Sheepdogs:

Allergies, whether environmental or food-related, can have a significant impact on your OES’s ear health:

Symptoms to Look For: Allergies can manifest in the ears as increased redness, itching, swelling, or a change in the consistency or color of earwax.
Increased Cleaning with Allergies: Dogs with allergies tend to produce more earwax. This, coupled with inflammation, can make them more susceptible to infections. Regular ear cleaning can alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Addressing the Root Cause: While cleaning can provide temporary relief, it’s essential to identify and address the cause of the allergies. Consult with your veterinarian to determine potential allergens and develop a management plan. This may include changes in diet, environmental modifications, or medication.

Your Old English Sheepdog’s iconic coat, while beautiful, requires consistent grooming efforts, especially concerning ear care. Regular ear cleanings, combined with monitoring for symptoms of allergies or infections, will help ensure your OES remains comfortable and healthy. Always remember to approach the cleaning process with patience and positive reinforcement, and when in doubt, seek guidance from your veterinarian or a professional groomer. With proper care, you can ensure your OES’s ears are as healthy as they are adorable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Cleaning for Old English Sheepdogs

1. How often should I clean my Old English Sheepdog’s ears?

You should clean your Sheepdog’s ears every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on wax buildup and activity level. Dogs that swim often may need more frequent cleaning to prevent infections.

2. What makes an ear cleaner suitable for Old English Sheepdogs?

A good ear cleaner should be gentle, pH-balanced, non-alcoholic, and effective at removing wax and debris without irritating the skin or inner ear.

3. Can I use human ear cleaners or hydrogen peroxide on my Sheepdog?

No. Human ear cleaners or hydrogen peroxide can irritate your dog’s delicate ear tissue. Always use a product specifically formulated for dogs.

4. What are signs that my Old English Sheepdog’s ears need cleaning?

Watch for odor, redness, excessive scratching, shaking the head, or visible dirt inside the ear canal—these indicate it’s time for a gentle cleaning.

5. Are natural or organic ear cleaners safe for Old English Sheepdogs?

Yes, as long as they contain safe ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or witch hazel and are veterinarian-approved.

6. How do I properly clean my Old English Sheepdog’s ears?

Apply a few drops of the ear cleaner into the ear canal, gently massage the base of the ear, let your dog shake, and then wipe away debris with a cotton pad (never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal).

7. What’s the best ear cleaner for dogs with sensitive skin?

Look for hypoallergenic options such as Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner or Zymox Ear Cleanser, which are known for being gentle yet effective.

8. Can ear cleaning prevent ear infections?

Regular ear cleaning helps prevent bacterial and yeast infections by removing wax and moisture that can trap bacteria.

9. My Old English Sheepdog hates ear cleaning—what should I do?

Use a calming approach: praise your dog, offer treats, and make it part of a relaxing grooming routine. You can also try ear wipes for easier handling.

10. Should I clean my Sheepdog’s ears after swimming or bathing?

Yes, because moisture left in the ears can lead to yeast or bacterial growth. Always dry the ears gently after water activities.

11. What ingredients should I avoid in a dog ear cleaner?

Avoid cleaners with alcohol, parabens, or artificial fragrances, as they can dry or irritate sensitive ears.

12. Can I use baby wipes to clean my dog’s ears?

It’s best not to. Baby wipes are not formulated for dogs and can disrupt the ear’s natural pH. Use dedicated dog ear wipes instead.

13. What are the best ear cleaners for preventing odor?

Products with antimicrobial or deodorizing properties, such as Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash or TropiClean Ear Cleaning Wipes, help neutralize odor effectively.

14. What if my Old English Sheepdog’s ears are red or painful?

Stop cleaning and consult your vet immediately—this could be a sign of infection or allergies requiring medical treatment.

15. Can diet affect my Sheepdog’s ear health?

Yes. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and free from allergens can improve skin and ear health, reducing the risk of infections and buildup.