Caring for your Havanese’s ears is an essential part of their grooming routine. Due to their floppy ears and hair growth inside the ear canal, Havanese are prone to ear infections, wax buildup, and irritation if proper hygiene isn’t maintained. Regular ear cleaning can prevent discomfort, improve overall health, and keep your dog feeling their best.

This guide explains why ear care is important, provides a step-by-step cleaning process, and highlights tips to maintain your Havanese’s ear health.

Why Havanese Ear Care Is Essential

Havanese dogs are predisposed to ear issues for several reasons:

• Floppy Ears: Their ears cover the ear canal, trapping moisture and reducing airflow.
• Hair in the Ear Canal: Excess hair can cause wax buildup and make cleaning more challenging.
• Prone to Allergies: Allergies can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of infections.

Signs of Ear Problems

Regular ear checks can help you spot potential issues early. Watch for these signs:

• Redness or swelling inside the ear.
• A foul or yeasty odor.
• Discharge or excessive wax buildup.
• Frequent head shaking or pawing at the ears.
• Sensitivity or pain when touching the ears.

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian before attempting to clean the ears.

How Often Should You Clean Havanese Ears?

The frequency of ear cleaning depends on your dog’s lifestyle, activity level, and ear health:

• Routine Maintenance: Clean your Havanese’s ears every 2–4 weeks to prevent buildup and infections.
• After Swimming or Bathing: Always check and dry their ears after exposure to water to prevent moisture-related infections.
• Signs of Wax or Dirt: If the ears appear dirty or waxy, clean them as needed, but avoid over-cleaning, which can irritate the ear canal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Havanese Ears

1. Gather the Necessary Supplies

• Dog-Safe Ear Cleaner: Choose a veterinary-recommended ear cleaning solution. Avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can irritate sensitive ears.
• Cotton Balls or Gauze: Use soft materials to wipe the ears gently. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal.
• Towel: To catch any excess cleaner or debris.
• Treats: For rewarding your dog and creating a positive experience.

2. Choose a Calm Environment

• Pick a quiet, well-lit space where your Havanese feels safe.
• If your dog is nervous, offer reassurance and use treats to help them relax.

3. Check the Ears

• Look inside the ear for signs of wax, dirt, redness, or irritation.
• If the ear is excessively red, swollen, or has a strong odor, consult your vet before cleaning.

4. Apply the Ear Cleaner

1. Hold the ear flap up to expose the ear canal.
2. Gently squeeze the ear cleaner into the ear canal, following the instructions on the bottle. Avoid inserting the tip too deeply.
3. Let the cleaner fill the ear canal, but don’t overfill.

5. Massage the Ear Base

• Gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to help loosen debris and wax. You’ll often hear a squishing sound as the solution moves through the ear canal.

6. Allow Your Dog to Shake Their Head

• Let your Havanese shake their head to dislodge the cleaner and debris. Use a towel to catch any splatter.

7. Wipe the Ear

• Use a cotton ball or gauze to wipe the visible parts of the ear flap and entrance to the ear canal.
• Be gentle and avoid pushing debris further into the ear canal.

8. Check and Repeat for the Other Ear

• Repeat the process for the other ear, ensuring both are clean and free of debris.

9. Reward Your Dog

• Offer a treat and praise to reward your Havanese for their cooperation, reinforcing a positive association with ear cleaning.

Preventative Ear Care Tips

1. Trim Ear Hair

• Excess hair in the ear canal can trap dirt and moisture. Ask your groomer or veterinarian about plucking or trimming ear hair safely.
• Avoid over-plucking, as it can irritate the ear and lead to inflammation.

2. Dry Ears After Water Exposure

• Use a soft towel or cotton ball to gently dry your dog’s ears after baths or swimming.

3. Regular Ear Checks

• Check your Havanese’s ears weekly for signs of dirt, wax, or irritation.

4. Use Allergy Management

• If your dog has allergies, work with your veterinarian to manage symptoms, as allergies can contribute to ear infections.

5. Avoid Over-Cleaning

• Cleaning too frequently can strip natural oils and irritate the ear canal. Stick to your regular schedule unless advised otherwise by your vet.

When to See a Veterinarian

If you notice any of the following, consult your vet immediately:

• Persistent redness or swelling.
• A strong, foul odor from the ears.
• Excessive discharge or bleeding.
• Frequent head shaking or signs of pain.
• Recurring ear infections.

Your veterinarian may prescribe medicated ear drops or recommend specific treatments if an infection or underlying issue is present.

Recommended Ear Cleaning Products

1. Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner
   • A gentle, non-irritating formula that removes wax and debris while soothing the ear canal.
   • Great for routine cleaning and managing mild odors.
2. Zymox Ear Cleanser
   • Contains bio-active enzymes to clean and deodorize while supporting ear health.
   • Ideal for dogs prone to ear infections or wax buildup.

Summary

Proper ear cleaning and care are essential for maintaining your Havanese’s overall health and comfort. By incorporating regular ear checks and cleanings into their grooming routine, you can prevent infections, reduce irritation, and keep your dog happy and healthy. Always use dog-safe products, follow a gentle cleaning process, and consult your vet if you notice any signs of trouble.

Sources:
Havanese Club of America, https://www.havanese.org
American Kennel Club (AKC), https://www.akc.org
Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com
Canine Health Foundation, https://www.caninehealthfoundation.org
PetMD, https://www.petmd.com