Dog Ear Care 101: What's Normal, and When to Get It Checked

Ears don't get the same attention as a coat or nails — there's no visible mat, no audible click on the floor to remind you. But ear issues can develop quickly, and a dog's floppy or hairy ear shape (common in breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and many mixed breeds) can trap moisture and reduce airflow in a way that makes them more prone to irritation than a dog with upright, open ears.

What healthy ears look like

A quick look is usually enough to tell if things are normal:

• Pale pink skin inside the ear, without redness or swelling
• Little to no odor
• Minimal wax buildup, and no dark, coffee-ground-like debris
• Your dog isn't bothered by having the ear touched or lifted

Signs worth paying attention to

None of these mean something is definitely wrong, but they're worth watching closely and are reasonable to bring up with a vet if they don't clear up on their own:

• A noticeable odor, even if the ear looks okay otherwise
• Redness, swelling, or heat inside the ear
• Dark discharge or a buildup that looks like coffee grounds
• Frequent head shaking or scratching at one ear more than the other
• Sensitivity or discomfort when the ear is touched

Why regular ear cleaning helps

Routine cleaning removes everyday wax and debris before it has a chance to build up, which is part of why it's worth doing on a schedule rather than only when something looks off. Ear cleaning is included as part of every groom at Pet Spa Luxe — both the Essential Bath and Full Dog Grooming packages — and it's also part of the standalone Nail Care & Ear Cleaning visit for dogs who don't need a full bath or haircut but are due for a check.

When it's more than a routine cleaning

A groomer can clean the visible, outer part of the ear safely, but going deeper — or treating an ear that's already red, swollen, or clearly bothering your dog — is a job for a vet, not a grooming appointment. If you notice any of the signs above and they don't resolve after a routine cleaning, that's the point to have a vet take a look rather than waiting for the next scheduled groom.