How to Clean a Pug’s Ears

As per the AKC or American Kennel Club’s breed standards, the pugs should have any of the two ear types – the rose ears or the button ears. Both appear folded, though the rose ears, smaller in size, do not lie close against their face like the button ears.

Be it the rose or the button ears, both need to be cleaned well at least 4 or 5 times a month to prevent wax buildup that may occur from the accumulation of dirt and debris inside.

The first warning signs of a wax buildup are a mild odor coming out of his ear. If the smell gets stronger, it indicates an ear infection that cannot be treated at home but needs a vet’s intervention. Other signs of ear infections include redness in the outer ear canal, itchiness, discharge, and crusting.

Instructions to Clean Your Pug’s Ears   

The first step is to select a vet-approved ear cleaner for your pug’s ears. Don’t go for any of the over-the-counter ear cleaning solutions since most of them contain alcohol, causing irritation and itching..

1. Lift one of the ears gently using your fingers, and squeeze in a few drops of the solution. Repeat the process for the other ear also.
2. Now, place your thumb on one side and your forefinger on the other side of the ear’s base. Massage gently by pressing your fingers together against the ear for about a minute. Each time you do this, the ears compress slightly, and you can come across a squishing sound. It means that the liquid is working towards breaking down the debris accumulated inside.
3. Then, take a rectangular-shaped cotton strip about 6 inches long; and insert it as far as it can go inside the ear. If there is too much dirt within, it will appear on the cotton. Discard the dirty cotton strip and use a fresh one.  Keep repeating the process in both ears until the cotton comes out clean.

At the end of this task, reward him with one of his favorite treats for patiently allowing you to clean his ears.