07/16/2026
๐ค THINK ABOUT IT THURSDAY: Floppy Ears & Ear Infections ๐
Did you know that those adorable, floppy ears on Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, and similar breeds act like furry little trapdoors?
While they make our pups look irresistible, floppy ears trap moisture, warmth, and debris. This creates the perfect breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. If your dog is scratching their head, shaking their ears, or if you notice a funky smell, an ear infection might be brewing.
Here is what you need to know to keep those ears healthy, clean, and irritation-free.
๐ก๏ธ How to Prevent Ear Infections
- Keep ears dry: Always dry your dogโs ears thoroughly after baths, swims, or rainy walks.
- Regular trimming: Safely trim or pluck excess hair inside the ear canal to improve airflow.
- Weekly checks: Look inside the ears once a week for redness, dirt, or unusual discharge.
- Routine cleaning: Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution to gently wipe away debris.
๐ก Safe Home Remedies & Care
- Witch hazel wipe: Dab a small amount on a cotton ball to gently clean the outer ear flap.
- Diluted apple c***r vinegar: Mix equal parts water and ACV to wipe the outer ear (never use if the skin is raw or broken).
- Coconut oil: Apply a tiny amount of organic coconut oil to soothe dry, itchy outer ear skin.
- Never use Q-tips: Avoid sticking anything down into the ear canal, as this pushes debris deeper.
๐ฉบ When to Consult the Vet
Home remedies are great for maintenance, but severe infections need professional care. Schedule a vet visit immediately if you notice:
- Whining or crying when you touch their ears or head.
- Strong, foul odor coming from the ear canal.
- Heavy discharge that looks like thick yellow, green, or dark brown wax.
- Constant head shaking or tilting to one side.
- Redness, swelling, or scabs inside the ear.
Catching ear issues early saves your pup from a lot of pain and prevents permanent damage to their hearing!
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