Ear Cleaning Shih Tzu: Tips and Techniques
As a loving Shih Tzu owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend is healthy and happy. One aspect of your Shih Tzu’s health that you may not have considered is their ear care. Proper ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections, wax buildup, and other ear-related issues. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about ear cleaning for your Shih Tzu.
Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Ears
Shih Tzus have drop ears, which means that their ears hang down and cover the ear canal. This type of ear structure can make them more prone to ear infections and other issues. It is essential to clean your Shih Tzu’s ears regularly to prevent these problems.
When to Clean Your Shih Tzu’s Ears
It is recommended to clean your Shih Tzu’s ears once a week. However, if your Shih Tzu spends a lot of time outdoors or is prone to ear infections, you may need to clean their ears more frequently.
Signs of an Ear Infection
If you notice any of the following signs, it may be a sign that your Shih Tzu has an ear infection:
* Shaking their head frequently
* Scratching their ears
* Redness or swelling in the ear canal
* Brown or yellow discharge
* Odor coming from the ear
* Loss of balance or disorientation
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What You Will Need
To clean your Shih Tzu’s ears, you will need the following:
* Ear cleaning solution (ask your veterinarian for a recommendation)
* Cotton balls or gauze
* Treats to reward your Shih Tzu
Steps to Clean Your Shih Tzu’s Ears
Follow these steps to clean your Shih Tzu’s ears:
1. Fill the ear canal with the ear cleaning solution. Make sure not to insert the tip of the bottle into your Shih Tzu’s ear.
2. Gently massage the base of your Shih Tzu’s ear to distribute the solution.
3. Let your Shih Tzu shake their head to remove any excess solution.
4. Use cotton balls or gauze to gently wipe away any excess solution or debris in the ear canal.
5. Reward your Shih Tzu with a treat for being patient and cooperative.
Things to Avoid
When cleaning your Shih Tzu’s ears, avoid the following:
* Using cotton swabs, as they can push debris further into the ear canal.
* Using water or any other cleaning solution that is not specifically designed for ear cleaning.
* Cleaning too deep into the ear canal, as it can cause damage to your Shih Tzu’s ear.
Preventing Ear Issues
In addition to regular ear cleaning, there are a few things you can do to prevent ear issues in your Shih Tzu:
* Keep your Shih Tzu’s ears dry after baths or swimming.
* Avoid exposing your Shih Tzu to excessive moisture.
* Trim your Shih Tzu’s hair around their ears to prevent matting and moisture buildup.
When to See a Veterinarian
If you notice any signs of an ear infection or if your Shih Tzu is in pain when you clean their ears, it is essential to contact your veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination and provide treatment if necessary.
When it comes to keeping your Shih Tzu’s ears clean, it’s important to know the right techniques. Check out our articles on Shih Tzu ear cleaning, ear cleaning and Shih Tzu health, and Shih Tzu ear cleaning tips for valuable insights. Looking for more Shih Tzu care tips? Learn about crate training for Shih Tzus and how to properly clean your Shih Tzu’s ears for a happy and healthy pup!
Conclusion
Proper ear care is essential for your Shih Tzu’s overall health and wellbeing. By following the steps outlined in this blog post and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your Shih Tzu’s ears clean and healthy. Remember to contact your veterinarian if you notice any signs of an ear infection or if you have any concerns about your Shih Tzu’s ear health.
Britta Thygesen
A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.
