6 Best Ear Cleaners for Shar Peis

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Renowned for their distinct wrinkled skin and aloof demeanor, Shar Peis necessitate specialized grooming attention, specifically attentive ear care. Their narrow, tightly curled ears create a challenging environment, prone to moisture accumulation and limited air circulation. This scenario makes them susceptible to infections and necessitates vigilant cleaning routines. In our comprehensive article “7 Best Ear Cleaners for Shar Pei”, we guide owners through expertly vetted products that are efficacious and gentle for maintaining your Shar Pei’s ear health, ensuring a comfortable, infection-free experience for your cherished canine companion.

#2 – Nutri-Vet Ear Cleanse for Dogs – Ear Cleaner & Deodorizer – 8 oz

Nutri-Vet Ear Cleanse for Dogs is a gentle ear cleaner and deodorizer that helps remove wax, dirt, and other buildup from a dog’s ears. It also provides relief from itching caused by various conditions, such as eczema, fungal infections, insect bites, fleas, and contact dermatitis. Formulated by veterinarians, Nutri-Vet products are made in the USA with premium globally sourced ingredients and meet the highest standards of quality and consistency.

#3 – Zymox Ear Cleanser Solution for Dogs and Cats, 4oz

The Zymox Ear Cleanser Solution is a cat and dog ear cleaner that effectively and gently cleans non-infected ears in pets of all ages. It is a non-toxic and non-irritating solution that is recommended by veterinarians. The solution contains the patented LP3 Enzyme System to help maintain healthy and fresh-smelling ears. It is made in the USA in a federally regulated manufacturing facility and is cruelty-free.

#6 – Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash Cleaner for Dogs, 16 oz Refill

The Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash Cleaner for Dogs is a product that provides immediate relief for dogs with raw, itchy, smelly, or greasy ears. Its natural ingredients, such as witch hazel, chamomile, aloe vera, clove oil, and tea tree oil, help control unpleasant odors and itching. It can be used daily or as needed to clean ears and control wax build-up, and is part of a complete treatment system for dog ear care.

How Often Should I Clean My Shar Pei‘s Ears & How Should I Clean Them?

Shar Peis, renowned for their distinctive appearance and calm demeanor, require consistent and careful grooming to maintain their overall health. This breed has uniquely structured ears that are small, narrow ,and curled tightly, predisposing them to various ear problems if not properly managed. Ensuring these canines have clean ears is crucial for preventing infections, irritation, and hearing loss.

Frequency of Ear Cleaning for Shar Pei

The tight structure of a Shar Pei’s ears creates a warm and moist environment, ideal for the proliferation of bacteria and yeast. It’s advised to clean your Shar Pei’s ears weekly or at least every other week, depending on your individual dog’s needs and the advice of your veterinarian.

How to Clean Shar Pei Ears

1. Prepare Supplies:

Have a quality dog ear cleaning solution, cotton balls or pads, and a towel at hand before you begin.

2. Ensure Comfort:

Place your Shar Pei in a comfortable and secure position to prevent sudden movements during the cleaning process.

3. Apply Cleaning Solution:

Pour the recommended amount of ear-cleaning solution into the dog’s ear canal. These solutions are designed to break down wax, remove debris, and prohibit microbial growth.

4. Massage Gently:

Softly massage the base of the ear for about 20-30 seconds, helping to loosen the wax and distribute the solution evenly.

5. Wipe and Dry:

With a cotton ball or pad, gently wipe away the loosened debris and excess solution. Allow your dog to shake its head, helping to remove additional debris from the ear canal.

6. Reward:

Once done, offer your Shar Pei a treat or some affection as positive reinforcement.

Dealing with Allergies for Your Shar Pei Ears

Allergies can significantly affect the ears of Shar Peis, making them more susceptible to infections and inflammation. The following practices can help manage allergies and maintain ear health:

1. Monitor Symptoms:

Watch for signs of allergies, such as redness, swelling, itching, or discharge in the ears. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately.

2. Use Hypoallergenic Products:

If your Shar Pei suffers from allergies, use hypoallergenic ear cleaning products designed to be gentle yet effective in cleaning without causing irritation.

3. Adjust Cleaning Frequency:

Dogs with allergies may require more frequent ear cleanings to mitigate the risk of infection and inflammation. Consult with your vet regarding the optimal cleaning schedule for dogs with allergies.

4. Seek Professional Advice:

If your Shar Pei has recurrent ear problems due to allergies, it’s advisable to seek professional veterinary assistance. Your vet might recommend allergy testing, medication, or specialized ear-cleaning products.

Ear cleaning is an essential aspect of grooming for Shar Peis due to their unique ear structure, making them prone to ear-related issues. Regular, gentle ear cleaning can prevent infections and complications arising from allergies. Knowing how to clean your Shar Pei’s ears and how often to do so, as well as recognizing when professional help is necessary, are integral to ensuring your pet’s comfort and health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Cleaning for Shar Peis

1. Why do Shar Peis need regular ear cleaning?

Shar Peis have deep, narrow ear canals that trap moisture and debris easily. Regular ear cleaning helps prevent infections, yeast buildup, and unpleasant odors.

2. How often should I clean my Shar Pei’s ears?

Ideally, clean your Shar Pei’s ears once a week. However, if your dog swims often or has a history of ear infections, you may need to clean them more frequently.

3. What are the signs that my Shar Pei’s ears need cleaning?

Common signs include head shaking, scratching, redness, wax buildup, and a foul smell coming from the ears.

4. Can I use human ear cleaners on my Shar Pei?

No. Human ear products may contain alcohol or harsh chemicals that irritate your dog’s sensitive ears. Always use a veterinary-approved dog ear cleaner.

5. What type of ear cleaner is best for Shar Peis?

The best ear cleaners are gentle, pH-balanced, and antibacterial. Choose formulas that help dry excess moisture while soothing the skin.

6. Are natural ear cleaners safe for Shar Peis?

Yes — as long as they’re vet-formulated. Natural cleaners with aloe vera, witch hazel, or chamomile can safely reduce irritation and inflammation.

7. Can ear cleaners help with bad ear odor?

Absolutely. A good ear cleaner removes wax and bacteria that cause odor. Look for products with deodorizing properties or mild antiseptics.

8. How do I clean my Shar Pei’s ears safely?

Gently lift the ear flap, fill the ear canal with cleaner, massage the base for 30 seconds, and let your dog shake its head. Then wipe away debris with a cotton ball.

9. Should I clean my Shar Pei’s ears before or after bathing?

It’s best to clean your dog’s ears after bathing to remove any trapped moisture and prevent infection.

10. What if my Shar Pei resists ear cleaning?

Start slowly — use treats and praise. Make ear cleaning part of a positive grooming routine. If your dog is too anxious, consult a vet or professional groomer.

11. Can I use ear wipes instead of liquid ear cleaners?

Yes, ear wipes are great for light cleaning or maintenance. However, liquid cleaners are more effective for deep cleaning and removing wax.

12. Do ear cleaners prevent ear infections in Shar Peis?

Regular cleaning significantly lowers infection risk by removing bacteria and yeast buildup — but it’s not a cure for existing infections.

13. What should I do if my Shar Pei’s ears are red or inflamed?

Stop cleaning immediately and consult a veterinarian. Redness, swelling, or discharge could mean infection or allergies.

14. Are prescription ear cleaners better than over-the-counter ones?

Prescription cleaners are only needed for chronic or severe infections. For routine cleaning, vet-recommended OTC cleaners are safe and effective.