Keep Your Dog’s Ears Dry After Swimming: Must-Know Tips!

Dogs love water, but keeping their ears dry after swimming is crucial for preventing infections, irritation, and discomfort. As a pet care expert, I’ve seen my fair share of pups come into the clinic with itchy, inflamed ears, all because moisture got trapped inside. It’s a common issue, but the good news? It’s totally preventable with the right approach! In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical, vet-approved ways to keep your dog’s ears dry after swimming—ensuring they stay happy, healthy, and ready for their next splash session.

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Why Keeping Your Dog’s Ears Dry Matters

Dogs’ ears are more delicate than you might think, and excess moisture can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. This is especially true for floppy-eared breeds like Golden Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels, where airflow is limited.

Common Issues Caused by Moisture in the Ears

Ear Infections: Bacteria and yeast thrive in warm, damp environments.
Itchy, Irritated Skin: Constant moisture can lead to redness, scratching, and discomfort.
Unpleasant Odor: A sign of bacteria build-up and possible infection.
Ear Mites: Though not directly caused by water, moisture can make ears more susceptible.

Trust me, I’ve seen dogs come into the clinic with ears so inflamed they couldn’t stop shaking their heads. The owners were often unaware that something as simple as trapped water was the root cause.

Pre-Swim Prep: Setting Your Dog Up for Success

One of the best ways to keep your dog’s ears dry after swimming is to start before they even hit the water. Prevention is key, and a little preparation goes a long way.

Use Ear Protection

Some dogs benefit from wearing ear wraps or waterproof dog ear covers. These aren’t just for show—they create a barrier that prevents water from entering the ear canal.

Apply a Protective Ear Solution

Ahead of swimming, I often recommend applying a vet-approved ear drying solution or mineral oil drops to create a light protective layer inside the ear canal. This can help repel water and prevent it from settling in.

Trim Excess Hair Around the Ears

Long-haired breeds often have extra fur around their ears that can trap moisture. Keeping this area trimmed allows for better airflow and faster drying.

Post-Swim Routine: How to Keep a Dog’s Ears Dry After Swimming

Once your dog is out of the water, it’s time to act fast. The sooner you remove moisture from their ears, the lower the risk of infections.

1. Gently Dry with a Soft Towel

First things first—grab a soft, absorbent towel and carefully pat around the ears. Avoid pushing the towel deep inside, as this can push water further in.

2. Let Your Dog Shake It Out

Dogs have a natural way of expelling water—a good shake! Let them shake their head freely before moving on to the next step.

3. Use a Dog-Safe Ear Drying Solution

This is my go-to trick! A vet-approved ear cleaner with a drying agent can help evaporate any lingering moisture. Simply apply a few drops, massage the base of the ear, and let your dog shake again.

4. Keep Ears Open for Airflow

If your dog has floppy ears, hold them open for a few minutes to allow air to circulate inside. This helps dry out any remaining dampness.

Signs Your Dog’s Ears Are Staying Too Wet

Even with the best post-swim care, sometimes moisture can linger in your dog’s ears longer than it should. If that happens, you’ll start noticing some telltale signs that something isn’t quite right.

What to Watch For

Frequent Head Shaking: If your dog keeps shaking their head long after drying off, it could mean water is still trapped inside.
Scratching at the Ears: Persistent scratching or pawing at the ears may indicate irritation.
Redness or Swelling: Inflamed skin inside the ear can be a sign of an infection starting to develop.
Unpleasant Odor: A musty or yeasty smell often means bacteria or yeast is thriving in the damp environment.
Dark or Excessive Ear Wax: A sudden increase in dark-colored wax might mean the ears are reacting to excess moisture.

Over the years, I’ve seen plenty of pet parents assume their dog is just “shaking off the fun” when, in reality, their pup is desperately trying to get rid of trapped water. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—taking quick action can prevent a full-blown ear infection.

How to Treat Moisture-Related Ear Issues

If you suspect your dog’s ears have stayed wet for too long, it’s time to step in with some at-home treatment before things escalate.

1. Use a Vet-Approved Ear Cleaner

At my clinic, one of the first things we recommend is using a high-quality, vet-approved ear cleaning solution. These contain drying agents that help absorb moisture while also removing excess wax and debris.

Gently hold your dog’s ear flap up to expose the ear canal.
Apply a few drops of the solution (follow the instructions on the bottle).
Massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds to break up any trapped moisture.
Step back and let your dog shake their head—this helps remove loosened debris.
Use a soft cotton ball to gently wipe away any excess liquid or wax.

2. Keep Ears Dry Between Cleanings

Even if you’re using a cleaner, it’s important to keep your pup’s ears dry on a daily basis. Try using a soft, lint-free cloth to pat around the ears after walks, baths, or humid days.

3. Monitor for Worsening Symptoms

If the shaking, scratching, or redness persists after a couple of days, it’s time to check in with your vet. Chronic moisture can lead to infections, which may require prescription ear drops or medication.

Best Ear Care Practices for Water-Loving Dogs

Prevention is always better than treatment. If your dog loves the water, making ear care a regular habit will keep them comfortable and infection-free.

1. Establish a Post-Swim Routine

Every time your dog takes a dip—whether it’s in the lake, ocean, or a backyard pool—make drying their ears a standard part of the routine. Trust me, it takes less than five minutes, and it’ll save you from bigger problems later.

2. Choose the Right Swimming Spots

Did you know some bodies of water are more likely to cause ear infections than others? Standing water, like ponds and slow-moving lakes, tend to harbor more bacteria. If possible, opt for cleaner, well-circulated water sources.

3. Keep Up with Regular Ear Checks

At least once a week, take a moment to check your dog’s ears for any signs of trouble. Look inside for redness, excessive wax buildup, or an unusual odor. Catching issues early means easier (and cheaper!) solutions.

4. Adjust for Your Dog’s Breed

Not all dogs need the same level of ear care. Floppy-eared breeds (like Labradors, Spaniels, and Basset Hounds) are at a higher risk because their ear shape traps moisture. Breeds with upright ears tend to have better airflow, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune.

By staying proactive and making ear care a natural part of your dog’s swimming routine, you can ensure they stay happy, healthy, and ready for their next water adventure!

Case Studies & Real-Life Examples

Let’s dive into some real-life cases where moisture-related ear issues turned into major problems—and how they were resolved. These are examples from my time in the clinic, where I’ve seen just how crucial it is to keep a dog’s ears dry after swimming.

Case 1: Bella, the Golden Retriever

Problem: Bella loved swimming in her family’s backyard pool, but after a few weeks, her owners noticed she was constantly shaking her head and scratching at her ears. A quick exam revealed redness and a strong yeasty smell—classic signs of an ear infection.

Solution: After cleaning out her ears and starting her on medicated drops, we educated her owners on the importance of drying her ears after every swim. By implementing a post-swim drying routine and using an ear-drying solution, Bella avoided future infections.

Case 2: Max, the Labrador Mix

Problem: Max spent his summers playing in a nearby lake. His owners were diligent about rinsing him off after each swim, but they weren’t drying his ears properly. Over time, moisture buildup led to a bacterial infection, causing painful swelling.

Solution: Max was treated with antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory medication. His owners switched to using a dog-specific ear wrap while he swam and made sure to use a vet-approved drying solution afterward. The result? No more infections!

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Remember

Before you head off to enjoy water adventures with your pup, here’s a quick summary of what we’ve covered:

Prevention is key: Take steps before your dog even gets in the water by using ear protection, trimming excess hair, and applying a drying solution.
Dry thoroughly after swimming: Use a soft towel, let your dog shake, and consider a vet-approved drying agent.
Watch for warning signs: Head shaking, scratching, redness, and a bad smell are all indicators of moisture-related ear issues.
Regular ear care matters: Make ear checks and cleanings a weekly habit to prevent infections.
Customize care to your dog’s needs: Floppy-eared breeds need extra attention, while upright-eared dogs may dry faster but still require monitoring.

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my dog’s ears?

It depends on your dog’s breed and activity level. For frequent swimmers, I recommend cleaning their ears once a week or after every swim session.

2. Can I use human ear drops to dry my dog’s ears?

No! Human ear drops may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Always use a vet-approved ear solution designed for dogs.

3. My dog hates having their ears touched. What should I do?

Start slow and make it a positive experience. Use treats, gentle handling, and short sessions to build their tolerance. If your dog is extremely resistant, consult a vet or groomer for help.

4. What if my dog already has an ear infection?

If you suspect an infection, see a vet immediately. Home remedies won’t be enough if bacteria or yeast have taken hold, and delaying treatment can make it worse.

Bonus: Additional Resources & DIY Tips

For dog owners who love DIY solutions, here are a few extra tricks to keep ears dry and healthy:

DIY Ear Cleaning Solution

Mix half white vinegar and half water as a natural ear rinse. This can help maintain pH balance, but don’t use it if your dog already has an infection—it may cause irritation.

Homemade Ear Wrap

If you don’t want to buy an ear wrap, try wrapping a soft, breathable fabric (like a cotton bandana) around your dog’s head to keep ears covered while swimming.

Appendix: References, Disclaimer & Call to Action

For further reading, check out these expert resources:

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a vet if your dog experiences persistent ear issues.

Love this guide? Share it with fellow dog lovers and help keep our furry friends happy, healthy, and free from ear troubles!

Bianca N