Grooming Routine for Floppy-Eared Dogs: Ear Care Plan

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Basset Hounds, Labradors and many other breeds have ears that hang down over the canal. They look adorable, but the same shape that makes them charming also traps heat, moisture and wax.

Why floppy ears need extra care

The ear flap acts like a lid, reducing airflow and raising the temperature in the canal. Combined with moisture from swimming, bathing and humid weather, this creates a good environment for bacteria and yeast. Dogs with allergies are especially prone. See dog skin allergies.

The weekly check

1. Lift the flap and look inside. The skin should be pale pink and clean.
2. Smell. A healthy ear has little odor.
3. Check for redness, swelling, scabs and discharge.
4. Watch for head shaking, scratching or tilting.

Take a photograph to track changes.

Cleaning

Clean only when dirt or wax is visible. Use a vet-approved cleaner. See how to clean a dog's ears and how to choose a dog ear cleaner. Over-cleaning can irritate the skin.

Drying

Dry ears after baths and swimming by wiping the outer ear with a soft towel. Your vet may recommend a drying cleaner. Avoid pouring water into the ears during baths. See how to bathe a dog at home and how to groom a dog after swimming.

Ear hair and flap hair

Keep long hair on the ear flap brushed and trimmed so it does not hang in water or food. Cocker Spaniels have heavy feathering that tangles easily. See Cocker Spaniel grooming. For hair inside the canal, ask your vet whether it needs attention. See how to pluck dog ear hair.

Mealtimes

Long ears dangle in bowls. Use tall, narrow bowls, or a snood during meals to keep ears clean.

Air and lifestyle

Let ears air after exercise. Keep your dog's environment dry, and avoid leaving damp bedding. A cool, dry ear is less hospitable to infection.

Warning signs

• Red, hot or swollen ears
• Persistent odor or discharge
• Constant scratching or head shaking
• Pain when touched
• Head tilt or loss of balance

See your vet promptly. Untreated infections can become chronic.

Recurrent infections

If ears keep flaring up, ask your vet to look for underlying causes, such as allergies, hormonal disease or anatomy. Treating the cause is more effective than cleaning alone.

Make it a habit

Pair the ear check with brushing or cuddle time so it is quick and pleasant. See how to brush a dog properly.

A simple weekly plan

• Sunday: Lift each flap, look, sniff and photograph if anything seems different.
• After every swim or bath: Towel dry the outer ears.
• Every two weeks or as needed: Clean with a vet-approved cleaner.
• Monthly: Trim feathering on the ear flap and around the opening.

Seasonal considerations

Humid summers and wet winters raise the risk, so check more often. Dogs who swim in lakes or the sea should have their ears rinsed and dried afterwards, following your vet's advice. In dry, dusty weather, grass seeds and dirt can enter the canal, so watch for sudden head shaking after walks.

Breed examples

Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds are especially prone because of long, heavy flaps and narrow canals. Beagles and Labradors have shorter hair but still trap moisture, particularly after water play. Whatever the breed, know your own dog's normal ear appearance so you notice changes quickly.

The takeaway

Look, smell, clean only when needed and keep ears dry. Floppy ears are lovely, and a simple routine keeps them healthy.