Shih Tzus have adorable floppy ears, but their ear structure makes them more prone to wax buildup, infections, and irritation. Since their ears are covered by long fur, moisture and dirt can get trapped inside, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections, bad odors, and hearing problems.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to properly clean your Shih Tzu’s ears, how often to do it, and what signs indicate your dog might have an ear infection.
Why Is Ear Cleaning Important for a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus have floppy, hairy ears, which limit airflow inside the ear canal. This makes them susceptible to:
- Ear infections (otitis externa)
- Wax buildup
- Moisture retention (leading to fungal growth)
- Ear mites (in some cases)
By cleaning their ears regularly, you help prevent serious health issues and discomfort.
How Often Should You Clean a Shih Tzu’s Ears?
The ideal frequency depends on your dog’s lifestyle and ear condition:
- Every 1-2 weeks – For most Shih Tzus, regular cleaning keeps ears healthy.
- Once a week – If your dog has excessive ear wax or is prone to infections.
- After baths or swimming – Always dry the ears to prevent moisture buildup.
- Vet check if there’s a strong odor, redness, or excessive scratching.
Signs That Your Shih Tzu Needs an Ear Cleaning
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to clean your Shih Tzu’s ears:
✅ Wax buildup – A moderate amount of wax is normal, but excessive buildup needs removal.
✅ Bad smell – A mild odor is okay, but a strong, yeasty, or foul smell indicates infection.
✅ Head shaking or scratching – If your dog frequently shakes its head or scratches its ears, they may feel discomfort.
✅ Redness or swelling – Signs of irritation, allergies, or an infection.
✅ Wet ears after bathing – Trapped moisture can lead to fungal infections.
If your dog’s ears have dark brown discharge, pus, or a foul smell, it could indicate an infection that requires veterinary treatment.
What You Need to Clean a Shih Tzu’s Ears
Before starting, gather the necessary supplies:
- Dog-friendly ear cleaning solution (avoid alcohol-based products)
- Cotton pads or gauze (never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal)
- Tweezers or ear powder (optional for removing excess hair)
- Towel (to catch any mess)
- Treats (to reward your dog after cleaning)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Shih Tzu’s Ears
1. Choose a Calm and Quiet Environment
Find a comfortable spot where your dog feels relaxed. Speak to them gently and offer treats before starting to create a positive experience.
2. Check the Ears Before Cleaning
Gently lift your dog’s ears and inspect for:
- Wax buildup (light brown wax is normal; dark or black discharge is a concern)
- Redness or swelling
- Unpleasant odors
If there are signs of infection or extreme irritation, avoid cleaning and consult your vet.
3. Apply the Ear Cleaning Solution
- Hold the ear flap up to expose the ear canal.
- Squeeze a few drops of the vet-approved ear cleaning solution into the ear canal.
- Massage the base of the ear gently for about 30 seconds to break up wax and debris.
4. Let Your Shih Tzu Shake Its Head
After massaging, let your dog shake its head—this helps loosen and remove wax naturally. Use a towel to catch any splashes.
5. Wipe Away Dirt and Wax
- Take a cotton pad or gauze and gently wipe the outer ear and inner folds.
- Be careful not to push debris deeper into the ear canal.
- Repeat until the ear looks clean.
6. Dry the Ears Completely
- Use a dry cotton pad to remove any excess moisture.
- If your dog’s ears tend to stay damp, apply a vet-approved drying powder.
Should You Remove Hair from a Shih Tzu’s Ears?
Some Shih Tzus have excessive hair inside the ear canal, which can trap dirt and moisture. If your groomer or vet recommends ear hair removal, you can:
- Use tweezers or your fingers to pluck a small amount of hair at a time.
- Apply ear powder before plucking to improve grip and reduce discomfort.
- Ask a professional groomer if you’re unsure about plucking ear hair.
Not all Shih Tzus need their ear hair removed—some vets believe it’s best to leave it alone unless it’s causing issues.
How to Prevent Ear Infections in Shih Tzus
- Clean the ears regularly to remove wax and dirt buildup.
- Dry the ears after baths and swimming to prevent moisture-related infections.
- Trim the fur around the ears to improve airflow.
- Use hypoallergenic food if your dog has food-related ear allergies.
- Check for ear mites if your dog scratches excessively.
When to See a Vet for Ear Problems
If your Shih Tzu shows these signs, visit a veterinarian:
🚨 Strong, foul odor from the ears
🚨 Dark brown, yellow, or pus-like discharge
🚨 Persistent head shaking or tilting
🚨 Pain or aggression when touching the ears
🚨 Hearing loss or balance issues
These symptoms could indicate an ear infection, mites, or allergies that require medical treatment.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your Shih Tzu’s ears regularly is essential to prevent infections, discomfort, and wax buildup. By following the proper cleaning routine, using vet-approved products, and monitoring for signs of infection, you can keep your dog’s ears healthy and irritation-free.