Itchy ears in winter: why wet walks make it worse.
Share
Head shaking, ear scratching, rubbing their face along the sofa? Winter can be a tricky time for ears. Rain, puddles and the odd swim mean ears get wet often, and dogs with floppy or hairy ears don't dry out easily. Warm, damp ears are a recipe for wax build-up and irritation.
What helps:
- Dry the outer ear after wet walks. A soft towel around the flap and the opening is enough.
- Never use cotton buds. They push wax and debris further in and can irritate the delicate skin of the ear canal.
- Have a quick look once a week. You're checking for redness, a build-up of wax or a smell that wasn't there before.
- Don't over-clean. Harsh or alcohol-based cleaners can leave ears more irritated than before.
When to see your vet: if your dog's ear is painful to touch, there's discharge, a strong smell see your vet before putting anything in the ear.
What we use
Ear Stuff is our natural ear oil for dogs. Pop 1 or 2 drops in each ear and gently massage the base so it spreads through the folds. It is natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal to prevent infection and helps loosen wax so it clears naturally.
Related reading: What causes itchy ears in dogs? and Dog ear wax removal: a complete guide to safe ear care