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  • 10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed 5

10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs 2024 | UK Veterinary Surgeon Reviewed

Along with a healthy diet, comfortable collar and plenty of long walks, ear hygiene is also a vital part of caring for your dog. Choosing a canine ear cleaner can be tricky as you’ll need to decide whether you want to use dog ear drops, pre-soaked pads or ear cleaning sticks. Brands like Epiotic, Propooch and Eco Ears all offer effective options that provide great value for money.

If your dog has an ear infection like otitis media or otitis externa, you might need a more medicated dog ear wash instead. We’ve searched high and low for products that can treat infection, improve your dog’s hearing, reduce itching or headshaking and neutralise odours too. Read on for our picks of the best products to buy online for a happy, healthy pooch.
Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Ear Cleaners for Dogs

1

Pro Pooch

Ear Cleaner
Ear Cleaner

A Naturally Derived, Cruelty-Free Formula That Supports an Animal Welfare Charity

2

Paw Originals

Ear Cleaner For Dogs
Ear Cleaner For Dogs

Sweet-Smelling With Quick-Absorbing Efficiency

3

Vet’s Best

Dog Ear Cleaning Pads
Dog Ear Cleaning Pads

Fuss-Free Cleansing at Your Fingertips

4

BUGALUGS

Dog Ear Cleaner
Dog Ear Cleaner

Treat Infection Fast With an All-Natural Formula

5

Virbac

Epiotic®
Epiotic®

An Effective Antiseptic Option With Salicylic Acid

Charlie Grainger
Expert
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Charlie graduated from The Royal Veterinary College of London and is now working as a Veterinary Surgeon in a large chain of vets treating companion animals such as dogs, cats and small furries.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Consultation From Veterinary Surgeon Charlie Grainger

With Specialist Consultation From Veterinary Surgeon Charlie Grainger

Charlie graduated from The Royal Veterinary College of London and is now working as a Veterinary Surgeon in a large chain of vets treating companion animals such as dogs, cats and small furries.

How to Choose an Ear Cleaner for Dogs in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Consider Which Ear Cleaner Will Be the Easiest to Use
  2. Look for Gentle But Effective Key Ingredients
1

Consider Which Type of Ear Cleaner Will Be the Easiest to Apply and Ensure That It Suits Your Pet’s Specific Needs

Consider Which Type of Ear Cleaner Will Be the Easiest to Apply and Ensure That It Suits Your Pet’s Specific Needs

For Short-Term Use Like Infections or Odours, Opt for a Liquid Wash to Clean In and Around the Ears

Probably the most common form of ear cleaner for dogs is a liquid wash which you pour onto a cloth or cotton pad and apply to the inside of your pet’s ears. These are ideal if your dog is suffering from a specific infection or has a condition that causes a bad smell in their ears.

Used every day for a number of days, you should be able to clear up any problems quickly with regular application. These washes are often medicated and recommended by vets and contain certain ingredients with an intense, chemically scent, but there are also some dog ear washes available online which contain natural ingredients and smell much more pleasant.


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Charlie Grainger
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Ear cleaning solutions are a fantastic way to clean in and around the ear. As long as a vet has said it is safe to put a product down the ear, solutions can be poured into the canal. The canal is then gently massaged and wiped out with cotton pads. This is the most effective way to get a deep clean.

If Your Pet Has Ticks or Suffers With Itchy Ears, Choose Drops to Ease Their Discomfort

If your dog keeps shaking their head, they may have an infection and/or be suffering from itchy ears. Likewise, if they are scratching a lot he may be suffering from ticks. In both cases, the best way to ease their discomfort is with ear drops. These are extra easy to apply and can be used either as a one-off to solve the problem or as a part of your pet’s weekly hygiene routine.
Charlie Grainger
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Keeping ears clean when an infection is present is vital. Young dogs are prone to ear mites whereas older dogs likely have an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. Often they may need treatment from the vets so always check with your vet before using product down the ear. 


Knowing if the eardrum is intact before putting product down the ear is very important and only a vet can tell you that. Make sure your pet is up to date with prescription flea and worm products from the vet to rule out other causes of itching.

For General Maintenance, Select Wipes and Pads to Help Remove Buildup

When it comes to speed and efficiency, you can’t get much simpler than ear cleaning wipes or pads for your dog. Whichever name they go by, these are basically soft pieces of fabric soaked in liquids which help remove buildup.


You might enjoy using wipes shaped into discs which can be gently stroked around the inside of your dog’s ears, or even handy little pads which slip over your finger for extra control as you help soothe and clean your pet’s lugholes. Either way, this type of dog ear cleaner can easily become a part of the weekly or daily hygiene routine you go through with your dog.

Charlie Grainger
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Wipes are very convenient. They are ready to use and good for on the go without having to use many different products. Place them over your finger to gently clean inside the pinna (ear flap) and in each crevice of the ear. They are not great for getting down into the canal to clean further down, however, they are great for mildly mucky ears and to maintain already clean ears and prevent wax build-up.

Those With a Calm Pet Who Won’t Fidget Can Try Bamboo Buds That Offer Extra Control

Another super convenient way to clear any muck and nasties from your dog’s delicate ears is by using ear-bud style sticks. This gives you extra control, but it’s important to be extremely careful during the process so as not to push deep into the ear canal.

The downside of this type of dog ear cleaner is that the sticks are often made from plastic – not ideal for the environment – so a preferable option is to choose bamboo sticks which should biodegrade much more easily.


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Charlie Grainger
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Cotton buds can be used to clean out the folds and crevices of your dog's ears and are a great way to clear out build-up from hard to reach areas. Never put the cotton bud into the ear canal itself as this may push wax and bacteria further down and damage the very delicate eardrum. There are many eco-friendly options to replace plastic cotton buds such as bamboo sticks or even just paper sticks.

2

Look for Gentle Yet Effective Ingredients Such as Anti-Fungal Aloe Vera, Wax-Softening Lactic Acid and Astringent Witch Hazel

Look for Gentle Yet Effective Ingredients Such as Anti-Fungal Aloe Vera, Wax-Softening Lactic Acid and Astringent Witch Hazel
When dealing with infections, look out for products which are anti-bacterial, anti-yeast and anti-fungal. Many dog ear cleaners contain aloe vera which has natural anti-fungal properties. Look out for citrus fruits too, such as lemon and orange, which help fight bacteria.

Glycerin and lactic acid are especially helpful for loosening stubborn ear wax and cleaning away other types of buildup. Their moisturising properties can help soothe dry scaly skin in your pet’s ears; plant oils also do a good job of melting away stubborn wax.


Look out for drops containing the anti-septic povidone-iodine if you want to help disinfect your dog’s skin. Witch Hazel is another good ingredient to look for in a dog ear cleaner as it is an astringent and has anti-viral and anti-inflammatory qualities.


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Charlie Grainger
Veterinary Surgeon
Charlie Grainger

Good ingredients are really important. As mentioned many infections are caused by bacteria and yeast. Finding products which contain ingredients that destroy these can work wonders in clearing infection. Cleaning with very dilute saline is great but for added antiseptic properties lookout for chlorhexidine digluconate and TrisEDTA in the ingredient list.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Ear Cleaners for Dogs in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Pro Pooch

Ear Cleaner

Pro Pooch Ear Cleaner 1

A Naturally Derived, Cruelty-Free Formula That Supports an Animal Welfare Charity

2

Paw Originals

Ear Cleaner For Dogs

Paw Originals Ear Cleaner For Dogs 1

Sweet-Smelling With Quick-Absorbing Efficiency

3

Vet’s Best

Dog Ear Cleaning Pads

Vet’s Best  Dog Ear Cleaning Pads 1

Fuss-Free Cleansing at Your Fingertips

4

BUGALUGS

Dog Ear Cleaner

BUGALUGS Dog Ear Cleaner 1

Treat Infection Fast With an All-Natural Formula

5

Virbac

Epiotic®

Virbac Epiotic® 1

An Effective Antiseptic Option With Salicylic Acid

6

Bamboo Stick

Pet Ear Cleaner Buds

Bamboo Stick Pet Ear Cleaner Buds 1

Absorbent Bamboo Buds That Are Easy to Use

7

Petpost

Dog Ear Wipes With Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera

Petpost Dog Ear Wipes With Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera 1

Lightly Scented Wipes for Quick Cleaning

8

Pets Purest

Ear Pro Dog Ear Cleaner

Pets Purest  Ear Pro Dog Ear Cleaner 1

Gently Fragranced and Anti-Fungal

9

Floofs

Dog Ear Cleaner Solution

Floofs Dog Ear Cleaner Solution 1

A 100% Plant Based Product Suitable for Cats and Dogs

10

Cooper & Gracie

Anti-Fungal Ear Cleaner for Dogs

Cooper & Gracie  Anti-Fungal Ear Cleaner for Dogs 1

Ideal for Bacterial Infections or Yeast Issues

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Pro Pooch
Ear Cleaner

Ear Cleaner 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.99
High Mid
Reference price
£12.99
High Mid

A Naturally Derived, Cruelty-Free Formula That Supports an Animal Welfare Charity

In order to deal with your dog’s over-the-top head-scratching or constant itching, try our number one rated product, a naturally-derived dog ear cleaner by Pro Pooch. With almost 2,000 4 and 5-star reviews on Amazon, this is a clear customer favourite.

The product contains all kinds of nutrient-rich fruit peels as well as glycerin which is known to soothe dry skin conditions and provides gentle relief to uncomfortable ears. It can be used twice daily for three days and then weekly to maintain your pet’s healthy flappers. Plus, if that's not enough, the company even donates a portion of their profits to Mayhew to help aid their mission of animal welfare.
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Paw Originals
Ear Cleaner For Dogs

Ear Cleaner For Dogs 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.99
Mid
Reference price
£8.99
Mid

Sweet-Smelling With Quick-Absorbing Efficiency

By acidifying the ear canal and then drying it out, Paw Originals cleanses your pet’s ear and then helps to deodorise it too. This gentle, safe liquid can be used over an intense period for specific issues such as ticks or simply added to your pet’s routine to improve overall health.

The largely natural formula is very highly rated by online shoppers since as well as being easy to use, it’s non-irritating and scented with fresh, fruity flavours like aloe and citrus.
No.3

Vet’s Best
Dog Ear Cleaning Pads

Dog Ear Cleaning Pads 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£6.19
Low Mid
Reference price
£6.19
Low Mid

Fuss-Free Cleansing at Your Fingertips

Improve the day-to-day hygiene of your furry friend’s ears by adding a quick cleanse with Vet’s Best clean ear pads to your weekly routine. The biggest perk of these pads is they are remarkably straightforward to use, cutting through wax safely and swiftly.

These wipes are less ‘organic and natural’, more highly-efficient cleansing. They contain malic and salicylic acid to provide a deep, intensive clean and also boast the soothing properties of aloe and witch hazel. There are also some parabens and silicones in there, which are not proven to be harmful according to NHS research. If practicality is a priority, these should be your best bet.
No.4

BUGALUGS
Dog Ear Cleaner

Dog Ear Cleaner 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£6.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£6.99
Low Mid

Treat Infection Fast With an All-Natural Formula

This product is specifically designed to treat ear infections. If your pup is always shaking her head, displays other signs of itching or sometimes has abnormal discharge in her ears, this product is for you. It’s one of the top-rated dog ear cleaning products on Amazon thanks to its easy application process and pleasant smell.

Largely made with naturally derived ingredients, BUGALUGS shows results fast. This liquid formula is 100% natural and free from preservatives so it’s perfect for sensitive ears.
No.5

Virbac
Epiotic®

Epiotic® 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£13.18
High Mid
Reference price
£13.18
High Mid

An Effective Antiseptic Option With Salicylic Acid

One of the top-rated dog ear cleaners available to buy on the internet, Epi-Otic is popular for good reason: it removes debris and cleans the ear cavity gently and effectively. Used two or three times a week it should clear up specific issues such as a fungal infection.

Containing lactic and salicylic acid to dissolve away the build-up that can clog pores and cause infection, this product is perhaps not as gentle as some of the more plant-based options on our list but comes very highly rated on eCommerce sites.
No.6

Bamboo Stick
Pet Ear Cleaner Buds

Pet Ear Cleaner Buds 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Pet Ear Cleaner Buds 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£4.99
Low
Reference price
£4.99
Low

Absorbent Bamboo Buds That Are Easy to Use

For extra control and to get into nooks and crannies – with the greatest care of course! – try these handy little sticks with cotton-bud tips. Pretty bargainous for a pack of 50, these dog ear cleaners are made of bamboo rather than plastic so are generally kinder to the environment.

By using them weekly you can rid your pooch’s ears of wax and other gunk without the addition of liquids or drops. This can help reduce nasty odours and hopefully help avoid any type of ear infection if added to your pet’s routine.
No.7

Petpost
Dog Ear Wipes With Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera

Dog Ear Wipes With Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£14.37
High Mid
Reference price
£14.37
High Mid

Lightly Scented Wipes for Quick Cleaning

These fuss-free wipes are a great option if you want to take care of your dog’s aural hygiene but don’t have time to faff with liquids splashing everywhere. You get 100 in one pack, and they do a great job of clearing away bits of wax and other debris which can lead to itching and discomfort.

Scented with coconut oil and aloe vera, probably the biggest advantage of these wipes is that they come in a handy pot which keeps them fresh and they’re so fast to use that your pet won’t have to sit still for long; ideal for wriggly, impatient puppies who love to fidget!
No.8

Pets Purest
Ear Pro Dog Ear Cleaner

Ear Pro Dog Ear Cleaner 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.39
High Mid
Reference price
£11.39
High Mid

Gently Fragranced and Anti-Fungal

Another lovely product which contains just natural ingredients and no complicated chemicals is this softly-scented wash from Pets Purest, a brand proud to declare itself the first on the market to use no man-made or synthetic substances at all.

To treat itchy or bad-smelling ears, soak a cloth or cotton pad in this light liquid and gently rub around your pets ears. Results should be visible after between two and three days. As well as being cruelty free, the product is made in the UK, keeping your carbon footprint low too!
No.9

Floofs
Dog Ear Cleaner Solution

Dog Ear Cleaner Solution 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£7.49
Low Mid
Reference price
£7.49
Low Mid

A 100% Plant Based Product Suitable for Cats and Dogs

Providing a speedy solution for itching, odour and fungal infections too, Floofs' dog ear cleaner is much more than just its pretty packaging. It neutralises unpleasant odours, calms itching and acts as a powerful antibacterial treatment.

Relying on eucalyptus for its anti-inflammatory properties and pleasant scent, this product exclusively uses natural ingredients and nothing else. Plus it's suitable for both cats and dogs so you won't need to buy two different products.
No.10

Cooper & Gracie
Anti-Fungal Ear Cleaner for Dogs

Anti-Fungal Ear Cleaner for Dogs 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£10.92
Mid
Reference price
£10.92
Mid

Ideal for Bacterial Infections or Yeast Issues

This plant-based, organic product provides anti-fungal cleansing for your pet to help reduce excessive itching and will soothe their ears if they're always shaking their head. Designed especially to help dog owners treat their pet at home, the plant-derived ingredients are best for bacterial infections or fungal and yeast issues.

The formula is alcohol free and 100% natural, using no synthetic fragrances likely to cause irritation, and relying on plant oils such as aloe vera and citrus to gently work through waxy buildup, leaving a pleasant scent behind. The only reason it’s not higher on the list is that it hasn’t got as many top reviews as other popular products – but it still has lots!

Charlie’s Advice on Good Ear Health for Your Pooch

Charlie’s Advice on Good Ear Health for Your Pooch

"If your dog is scratching and shaking its ears always ensure to get them checked out with a vet. It could be a simple infection or something nasty and resistant. It could also be linked to allergies so finding the underlying cause is really important."

Top 5 Ear Cleaners for Dogs

No. 1: Pro PoochEar Cleaner

No. 2: Paw OriginalsEar Cleaner For Dogs

No. 3: Vet’s Best Dog Ear Cleaning Pads

No. 4: BUGALUGSDog Ear Cleaner

No. 5: VirbacEpiotic®

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