The ear is one of the more daunting body parts to clean in dogs. Fret not, for here is a comprehensive and step-by-step guide on how to clean a Cockapoo’s ears!
Included in the last part of this article are some well-known products for cleaning your dog’s ears.
How To Clean A Cockapoo’s Ears
Cockapoos, known as the first designer dogs, are popular for those who are looking for low maintenance pets. They are relatively easy to groom and sheds very lightly.
Still, you would love to cuddle with a well-groomed dog. Not only is it more hygienic, but the regular cleaning of your dog’s ears can also help you detect possible ear infections.
Prior to getting your dog ear cleaning solution, it is important to know what you are dealing with. Cleaning your dog’s ears can be daunting, and this cannot be more true with Cockapoos.
Since Cockapoos have notoriously large and floppy ears plus delicate soft fur, this serves as an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms and a spot for debris to accumulate.
They also inherited narrow ear canals from their Poodle parent (which is the other half of this crossbreed; the other being Cocker Spaniel), which makes the cleaning process even harder.
This breed also loves to play in mud puddles, making them more prone to dampness when left unattended. The available moisture favors the growth of yeast, bacteria, and other fungi.
So, now that you are already armed with knowledge about the challenges of cleaning your dog’s ears, it’s time to get to the brunt of the job! However, here are some safety notes to consider.
Do not use cotton tips or Q tips for this activity, as these may injure your dogs’ ears and result in infection.
Without further ado, here is the step-by-step guide on how to clean your Cockapoos’ ears.
1. Make Them Comfortable With Your Touch
You cannot clean your pet’s ears if they do not allow you to touch them, right? So, the first step is to desensitize and get them used to you touching their ears.
It is better to start this when they are still puppies, but this can still be done with adult ones, though it comes with more challenges. Getting them used with humans touching their ears will also make it easier for your vet to inspect them if needed.
For the main activity, it’s pretty simple. Massage and play with their ears, including the base part.
This may take a few weeks, but patience is the key. Once they get used to the sensation, it would also be much easier for you to wash their ears during bath time.
You may also opt to use treats, either food or toys, to reinforce a positive environment during these times. Make sure that they are calm when you start the cleaning process.
2. Apply Ear Cleaner Solution
Pro Tip: Rub the cleaning solution container gently in between your hands to raise the temperature of the liquid. This will reduce the shock effect when applied into your dog’s ears.
Safety Note: Do not put the end of the container where the solution comes out inside the ears of your Cockapoo. If they move suddenly, this may result in injuries, which may traumatize them and make it more difficult for you to clean their ears in the future.
For the actual procedure, follow the steps below.
Tilt and lower the head of your dog. Lift one ear up and apply the cleaning solution inside, using the flap as a funnel.
Do not worry about some of the solutions trickling down your dog’s neck. Just clean this afterwards so they don’t lick and ingest it.
Only use cleaning solutions that have been approved by the vet. Avoid those containing alcohol and chloroxylenol as these are harmful substances for your dog.
3. Massage Your Cockapoo’s Ear Canal
Gently massage your Cockapoo down the ear opening and just above the jaw line. They will feel good during this massaging part (who doesn’t), so do this for a minute or so.
The squishing sound you will probably hear is the cleaning solution inside your dog’s ear canals. You might also be able to feel some cartilage, which means you are massaging the right area.
4. Shake, Shake, Shake
At this point, your Cockapoo would like to shake his or her head. Let them do it and don’t panic.
They might also rub their face against a rug or carpet. This dislodges debris and other foreign matter off their ears, while the shaking motion allows the cleaning solution to go all the way in.
This is one of the most vital parts in the whole cleaning process. So yes, allow them to shake it all off!
5. Wipe Off The Excess Cleaning Solution
There will be some remaining cleaning solution in your dog’s ears even after shaking. To remove this, use cotton pads or a microfiber cloth.
Put a finger in the center of the pads then wipe away any remaining debris that has been dislodged. Innovative pads are also available, which can be worn just like a thimble for ease of use.
6. Pluck The Hairs Out
While still controversial, plucking the hairs inside Cockapoos’ ears remains an essential part of grooming for this breed. This is because an overgrowth increases the chances of dampness, favoring microbial infection.
Those who are against this argue that plucking causes skin irritation. This in turn makes it more prone to infection.
Alternatively, owners might opt to just trim the excess hair and leave the rest at the base or close to the follicles. This runs the risk of having ear hair build up, though.
Fortunately, there are some Cockapoos who do not have excessive hair growth in the ear canal and would not require either of these two treatments. Still, constant cleaning of the ears is a non-negotiable chore.
How Often Should I Clean My Cockapoo’s Ears?
The answer depends on your Cockapoo. But generally, once a month usually suffices.
If you are living near waterways or the beach and your dog is frequently getting wet and soaked, this would require a more thorough inspection and cleaning of your dog’s ears. Always remember that bacteria and yeasts love moisture, and together with the warmth of your pet’s body, this forms a perfect condition for them to proliferate.
Make sure to inspect for any abnormalities as well when you’re cleaning your dog’s ears. Check for unpleasant smell, swelling, redness, dark or black earwax, discharge, or a combination of these traits.
You might also notice that they are constantly shaking their head and scratching their ears. They might also rub their faces on a rug or carpet.
The above symptoms indicate an ear infection, and you might need to go to the vet since the ordinary home cleaning process will not be enough.
Other indications of an ear infection are hair loss in or around the ear, rashes that can be found either inside or outside, skin is hot to the touch, or the dog will be in pain when ears are touched or pulled.
Products for Cockapoo Ear Cleaning
As mentioned beforehand, there are certain substances to avoid when looking for ear cleaning solutions. The most common are chloroxylenol and alcohol.
While chloroxylenol is useful as a disinfectant for skin and surgical instruments, it remains a hazardous substance for dogs and cats alike. It can also be found in some household disinfectants and antibacterial soap.
So, aside from looking out for these ingredients in your dog’s ear cleaning solution, you might as well check it out if your home cleaning products contain these. You do not want to clean your floor with these disinfectants and risk your pet licking your tiles afterwards.
For the purpose of this article, let’s look at some of the safest ear cleaning products for your Cockapoo. Listed below are two examples of ear cleaning solutions and two ear cleaning pads for wiping grime, earwax, and others.
Pro Pooch Dog Ear Cleaner
- FAST RESULTS: If your pup has ear odor, is persistently shaking their head or has excessive wax, our ear drops for dogs will help alleviate their discomfort, fast. Formulated to clean ears & keep them healthy. It is suitable as a cat ear cleaner too!
- POOCH PROTECTION: Made from 100% naturally derived ingredients, our dog ear drops are non-toxic and free from alcohol, parabens, silicones, SLES, SLS, DEA & enzymes. To be used twice daily for 3 days, then once per week or as directed by your vet.
- PEACE OF MIND: At Pro Pooch we’re committed to animal welfare, which is why we never test any of our products on animals. So, with your next purchase of dog ear wash, you can feel safe in the knowledge that you’re dealing with a brand you can trust.
- CERTIFIED: Manufactured in a BRC certified facility, Pro Pooch is a trusted brand that prioritizes high quality ingredients & the best manufacturing processes. You can rest assured when choosing our ear cleaner for dogs, it’s certifiably safe.
- DOG LOVERS ASSEMBLE: Purchase our dog ear cleaner solution & bask in the glow of knowing you’re also helping other needy dogs. As a proud partner of animal charity, Mayhew, each year we donate a proportion of profits to assist other dogs in need.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This effective ear cleaning solution is derived from 100% natural ingredients. It is non-toxic and free from alcohol, silicones, parabens, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, diethanolamine and enzymes.
If you are one of those fur parents who goes the extra mile of meticulously checking all the ingredients in the products you use in your dog, you are in the right place. The following is the complete list of materials used in this product, which is also available in their website: Purified Water, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract, and Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract.
To use, apply twice daily for three days, then once a week or as instructed by your vet. This product is manufactured in a British Retail Consortium (BRC) certified facility, so you can be sure of its quality.
It comes in 250 ml bottles and can be stored at room temperature. To further sweeten the deal, they are selling it with free ear pads and buds, so go and use it on your dogs!
Buy the Pro Pooch Dog Ear Cleaner from Amazon.
Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
- Epi-Otic may be used for routine ear cleansing in healthy ear canal or prior to administration of other ear preparations
- A mild alcohol-free cleansing and drying solution for routine maintenance of otitis externa
- Epi-Otic has a low pH of 2.2 and contains no chlorhexidine or alcohol
- Packaging May Vary
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This is a mild, alcohol-free ear cleaning solution that can be used for routine maintenance during treatment of otitis externa. Otherwise known as swimmer’s ear, Otitis externa is the inflammation of the external ear canal.
It comes in 8oz bottles and is free from chlorhexidine. Again, here is a complete list of the ingredients used in this product for your reference: Water, Ethoxydiglycol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium EDTA, Docusate Sodium, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Chloroxylenol, Salicylic Acid, Fragrance, D-galactose, D-mannose, L-rhamnose, and FD&C Blue #1.
No need to worry about those seemingly hard to pronounce substances, as all of those underwent a ton of testing and evaluation for safety and proper use. Some of it, like galactose and mannose, are naturally occurring substances that can also be found in human food like dairy, apples, oranges, and broccoli.
Ready to try the Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner? Find it on Amazon now!
Pet MD Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes
- Advanced Veterinary Formula Designed to Gently Clean, Deodorize and Dry Your Pets Ears
- Gentle and Safe for Regular Use which Prevents Ear Infections, Reduces Wax Build Up and Removes Debris in and Around the Ear
- 100 Convenient, Alcohol Free, Soothing and Non-Irritating Disposable Ear Wipes for Dogs. For Dogs Over 12 Weeks Old
- Reduce Foul Ear Odor and Prevents Infection to Keeps Your Dog Happy and Healthy without Medication
- Made in the USA in Federally Regulated Manufacturing Facilities to Ensure Quality and Safety
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Infused with aloe vera and eucalyptus oil, this non-irritating and soothing ear cleaning wipes comes in one hundred pieces per container packaging.
It must be used in puppies over twelve weeks of age and is applied topically. When using this, any foul odor is removed, and the chance of ear infection will be lessened.
If in case your dog already has a wound in the ears, the aloe vera content will help speed up the healing process while simultaneously reducing swelling and redness. Likewise, eucalyptus was found to have antiseptic, miticide, and insecticide properties.
The ingredients used are: Purified Water, Glycerin, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice, Lactic Acid, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance, Red33, and Blue 1.
Some of these materials are used in food, such as lactic acid and sodium benzoate, while salicylic acid is used in the manufacturing of bath soaps.
Make ear cleaning soothing for your Cockapoo. Get the Pet MD Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes from Amazon.
Vet’s Best Clean Ear Relief Finger Wipes
- GENTLY CLEANSES – Vet’s Best Ear Relief Finger Wipes single-use finger wipes gently and effectively removes dirt and dissolves waxy build-up.
- SOOTHS & DEODORIZES - Regular use of our wipes will help to safely & gently remove build-up and discharge that can cause odor.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Our wipes are free from Parabens and made with all-natural ingredients like Witch Hazel, Aloe Vera and Tea Tree Oil.
- FOR REGULAR USE – Use as needed until wipes are free of visible wax or build-up after use. Use 1-2 times weekly on a routine basis to maintain clean ears
- EASY TO USE – Simply rub the accessible portion of your dog’s ears with our pre-moistened wipe and dispose after use.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
In terms of innovation, this product must be highly commended. The pet owner just simply needs to insert the pads in their fingers (hence the name), and you may already start cleaning not just your dog’s ears, but their eyes and teeth as well.
It also contains nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera and witch hazel extract, which is often used as a natural treatment for skin irritation. This extract also tightens the skin and reduces inflammation, resulting in quicker healing of wounds.
For the complete list of ingredients, take a look at the following: Water, Propylene Glycol, Malic Acid, Glycerine, Dimethicone, Polysorbate 20, Diazolidinyl Urea, Benzoic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Aloe Vera Gel, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Witch Hazel Extract.
For an easy way to clean your dog’s ears, buy Vet’s Best Clean Ear Relief Finger Wipes from Amazon.
If you enjoyed this post, then you will love these posts:
- How Much Do Cockapoos Weigh? Full Breakdown
- 10 Best Dog Brush For Cockapoo [Ultimate Guide]
- 7 Best Grooming Clippers for Cockapoos [Top Picks You Can’t Miss]
- Do Cockapoos Like Water? [Ultimate Guide]
- How Long Do Cockapoos Grow? [The Real Truth]
Thanks for reading! You can get many more tips and tricks for your Cockapoo here.
