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Ear Cleaning

28 groomers across the Pacific Northwest

Ear cleaning is a quick but important grooming service that helps prevent infections, especially for dogs with floppy ears or those who swim frequently.

Professional ear cleaning involves inspecting the ear canal for redness, discharge, or odor, then gently wiping the outer ear and canal with a vet-approved cleaning solution. For breeds with hair growing inside the ear canal (like Poodles and Bichons), the groomer may also pluck or trim excess ear hair to improve airflow. The process takes about 5 to 10 minutes per ear.

Dogs most at risk for ear problems include those with floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Labrador Retrievers), dogs that swim or get wet frequently, and breeds prone to ear hair growth. In the PNW, where dogs are often exposed to rain and damp conditions, ear infections are a common and preventable issue. Regular cleaning helps catch problems early before they require veterinary treatment.

Ear cleaning is usually included as part of a full groom or bath service at no extra charge. As a standalone service, it typically costs $5 to $15. If your dog has a history of chronic ear infections, ask your groomer to flag any early signs of trouble during each visit. Many groomers will note ear conditions on your dog's grooming record.

Tips for Pet Owners

  • If your dog's ears smell yeasty or your dog scratches at them frequently, schedule a vet visit before a grooming appointment.
  • After swimming or bath time, gently dry the inside of your dog's ears with a soft cloth to reduce moisture buildup.
  • Ask your groomer whether ear plucking is appropriate for your breed. The practice is debated, and not all dogs benefit from it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my dog's ears?
Most dogs benefit from ear cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks, typically as part of a regular grooming appointment. Dogs with floppy ears or those that swim frequently may need more frequent cleaning.
Is ear plucking necessary for my dog?
Ear plucking is debated among veterinarians and groomers. It is most commonly done for breeds like Poodles and Bichons that grow hair inside the ear canal. Ask your groomer and vet for breed-specific guidance.

Washington · 23 groomers

Seattle
13
Vancouver
1
Bremerton
1
Olympia
1
Burien
1
Bellevue
1
Renton
1
Edmonds
1
Tacoma
1
Lakewood
1
Kirkland
1

Oregon · 5 groomers

Hillsboro
2
Portland
2
Forest Grove
1

All Ear Cleaning Groomers

28 groomers found

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