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How to Clean Your Dog's Eyes & Ears

Eye Cleaning

8035Your dog's eyes should be cleaned on a regular basis, as dogs are susceptible to many of the same eye conditions that are common in humans, including styes, allergies, and infections. If a dog's eyes are healthy, a clear mucus secretion is normal and should be wiped away with a soft, damp cloth. If the secretion is yellowish or bloody, your dog should be taken to the vet right away.

Many light-colored dogs can develop brown tearstains underneath their eyes, usually caused by excess eye fluid that wets the fur around the eyes and allows various yeasts to flourish. To try to avoid these tearstains, keep your dog clean and keep the hair out of his eyes. There are also a number of commercial products that can help to remove any tearstains.

Ear Cleaning

Dogs with a lot of hair, such as poodles, tend to accumulate some hair growth in the ear canal that must be removed on a regular basis, preferably about once a week. Ear powder helps to stiffen the hair, which makes it easy to pull out. Once the hair is removed, use a cotton ball dipped in alcohol to remove any remaining dirt or wax. All dogs, short-haired, long-haired, or somewhere in between, should have their ears cleaned regularly with a cotton ball dipped in alcohol.

If your dog develops an ear problem, he should exhibit certain symptoms. He may frequently shake his head, rub his ears on the floor, or scratch his ear with his foot. If you recognize these symptoms, look inside his ears. If they are red or have a discharge, there is probably an inflammation or infection, and you and your pup should visit the vet as soon as possible.

Books on this Topic:
Groom Your Dog Like a Professional


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