What is ear plucking for dogs?

Ear plucking for dogs is a grooming procedure in which excess hair is removed from a dog's ear canal and outer ear. This is typically done to prevent excessive hair buildup and maintain good ear hygiene in certain breeds that are prone to ear issues.

Purpose: Ear plucking is performed to prevent excessive hair from blocking the ear canal. In some dog breeds, especially those with floppy or hairy ears, excess hair can trap moisture, debris, and wax in the ear, leading to ear infections and other ear-related problems.

Procedure: During ear plucking, a groomer or veterinarian carefully removes excess hair from the ear canal and the outer ear using specialized tools such as hemostats or ear powder.

The hair is gently plucked from the ear to create an open and clear ear canal, promoting better airflow and preventing the accumulation of debris.

Applicability: Ear plucking is often done in breeds with long, dense, or wiry ear hair, such as Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Schnauzers, among others.

Breeds with excessive hair growth in the ears are more susceptible to ear infections, and regular plucking helps reduce this risk.

Caution: Ear plucking should be done with care to avoid causing discomfort or injury to the dog.

It's essential to only pluck the excess hair and not go too deep into the ear canal, as this can cause pain or injury to the delicate structures inside the ear.

Frequency: The frequency of ear plucking varies based on the breed and individual dog. It may be done as part of routine grooming, typically every few weeks or as needed, depending on the rate of hair growth.

Ear Cleaning: In addition to plucking, regular ear cleaning is important to maintain ear health. Cleaning involves using specialized ear cleaning solutions to remove wax, dirt, and debris from the ear canal.

It's important to note that not all dogs require ear plucking, and some breeds with minimal ear hair may not need this procedure. Always consult with your professional groomer to determine if ear plucking is necessary for your dog and to learn the proper technique to ensure your dog's ear health and well-being. Speak to the K9 Anytime Grooming Team today to see how we can improve your dog's ear health.