Puppy Club Fact Sheets
Checking Puppy Eyes and Ears
Introduction
Checking eyes and ears should be an important part of your daily routine. Regular cleaning can help prevent infection and the build up of discharge. Any abnormalities will be spotted early. A dog that routinely has its eyes and ears checked will be easier for the veterinary surgeon to examine and in the event of problems, easier to treat.
The Eyes
- Find a quiet time in the day, sit your dog down and support the chin.
- Tilt the head back slightly. Using a damp piece of cotton wool wipe the eye gently, clearing any discharge.
- Use a separate piece of cotton wool for each eye.
- Be careful not to touch the surface of the eye with your fingers or the cotton wool.
If there is any change in the amount and colour of the discharge, any swelling, redness or discomfort of the eye, take your dog to the vets as soon as possible. Eyes are very fragile. If you are at all worried get them checked sooner rather than later.
The Ears
- Check the ears at the same time as checking the eyes.
- Support the chin and if applicable lift the earflap gently.
- Using a fresh damp piece of cotton wool, wipe any excess wax away from the surface areas.
- Do not force fingers or cotton buds down the ear canal. This could be dangerous and uncomfortable for the dog.
- If you have a breed prone to ear problems your vet may suggest regular ear cleaning with a specialised cleaner.
- Carefully clipping or plucking of the hairs around the ear canal will help air circulation.
If you notice redness, odour, increase or colour change in wax, head shaking or scratching, take your dog to the vet straight away.
