
Weiner dog ears can be a cute feature, but they also require some extra care to prevent infections. The ear canal of a wiener dog is relatively short, making them more prone to ear infections.
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent infections. Clean your wiener dog's ears weekly, using a cotton ball or soft cloth to wipe away dirt and debris.
Ear infections can be painful and may cause redness, swelling, and discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary attention promptly.
A common sign of an ear infection in wiener dogs is a strong, unpleasant odor from the ear.
You might enjoy: Weiner or Wiener Dog
Cleaning and Infection Prevention
Regular ear cleaning is crucial for preventing ear infections in Dachshunds. You should clean your Doxie's ears once a week with a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution to maintain their ear health.
A clean Dachshund ear should have minimal wax, no debris, and no foul odor. The skin should look healthy and not red or swollen.
Readers also liked: Clean Dogs Ears

To determine if your Dachshund's ears need cleaning, look for signs like redness, an unpleasant odor, excessive scratching, or discharge. Regular checks, ideally weekly, will help you stay ahead of any potential problems.
Here's a quick guide to cleaning your Dachshund's ears:
- Calm Your Dog: Start by gently petting your Dachshund to make them comfortable.
- Examine the Ear: Check for signs of infection or irritation.
- Apply Cleaning Solution: Fill the ear canal with the cleaning solution.
- Massage the Base of the Ear: This helps loosen debris and wax.
- Allow Your Dog to Shake Its Head: This helps bring the loosened debris to the outer part of the ear canal.
- Wipe Away Debris: Using cotton balls or gauze, gently wipe out the ear.
Remember, if you notice any severe redness, swelling, or discharge, consult your veterinarian before proceeding with cleaning.
How to Clean
Cleaning your Dachshund's ears is a crucial part of their grooming routine.
Regular checks should be done weekly to stay ahead of any potential problems. If you notice redness, an unpleasant odor, excessive scratching, or discharge, it's time to clean their ears.
The frequency of ear cleaning can vary depending on your dog's lifestyle, ear shape, and wax production. Typically, it's recommended to clean their ears once every 2-4 weeks.
To clean their ears, start by gently petting your Dachshund to make them comfortable. This will help them relax and make the process easier.
If this caught your attention, see: Can I Clean My Dog's Ears with Alcohol?

Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your Dachshund's ears:
- Calm Your Dog: Gently pet your Dachshund to make them comfortable.
- Examine the Ear: Check for signs of infection or irritation.
- Apply Cleaning Solution: Fill the ear canal with a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution, being careful not to insert the bottle tip deep into the ear.
- Massage the Base of the Ear: This helps loosen debris and wax.
- Allow Your Dog to Shake Its Head: This helps bring the loosened debris to the outer part of the ear canal.
- Wipe Away Debris: Using cotton balls or gauze, gently wipe out the ear.
- Repeat on the Other Ear: Ensure both ears are cleaned.
Remember, it's essential to clean the outer ear canal and remove any visible wax or debris. Do not insert anything deep into the ear canal as this can cause injury.
Drying a Wet Dog
Drying a wet dog is an essential step in the cleaning process to prevent infections. Avoid using a hair dryer as it can be too hot and scary for them.
A soft, dry towel or a cotton ball is the best tool for drying your dog's ears and body. It's also a good idea to dry your dog's ears thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup.
Make sure your dog is completely dry before letting them shake off or move around. This will help prevent moisture from getting into their ears or other areas.
Symptoms and Signs of Infection
If you notice your Dachshund frequently head shaking, it could be a sign of an ear infection. This behavior is a common indicator of discomfort and irritation in the ear.
Redness and swelling around the ear area are also signs of an ear infection. These symptoms can be caused by constant scratching and irritation.
A yellow, brown, or bloody discharge from your Dachshund's ear is a clear indication of an infection. This discharge may contain pus, blood, or excretions from bacteria and yeast.
Your Dachshund may become more irritable or depressed due to ear discomfort. This behavioral change can be a warning sign that something is wrong.
Dachshunds with ear infections often scratch their ears due to irritation or itching. This constant scratching can lead to redness, swelling, and even secondary infections.
If your Dachshund is stumbling, circling, or struggling with coordination, it could be a sign of an ear infection affecting their balance and movement.
Discover more: Dog Ear Infection Packing
Causes and Treatment of Infection
Ear infections in Dachshunds can be caused by a bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the ear canal. Understanding the array of available treatments helps to manage and, if possible, prevent recurrent ear issues.

A veterinarian should perform a physical examination and possible further tests, such as an ear swab culture, to accurately diagnose the issue. This helps in identifying the exact cause and thereby selecting an effective treatment approach.
Treating an ear infection requires medication, which may include antibiotics or antifungals, and may also involve ear cleaning and flushing to remove discharge and debris.
What Causes Infection?
Ear infections in Dachshunds can be attributed to several factors, including allergies, which can cause reactions to certain foods or environmental factors.
Bacteria and yeast growth is also a common cause of ear infections in Dachshunds, thanks to the moist and warm environment of their ears.
Genetic predisposition can also play a role, with some Dachshunds being more prone to ear issues due to their genetic makeup.
Foreign bodies, such as grass seeds, can also cause ear infections if they intrude into the ear canal.
If you notice any of the common symptoms of ear infections in Dachshunds, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it's crucial to visit a veterinarian for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Expand your knowledge: Are Dachshunds Good Pets
Treating Infections

Treating ear infections in Dachshunds requires a visit to a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. A physical examination and possible further tests, such as an ear swab culture, will help identify the exact cause and determine the best treatment approach.
The first step in treating an ear infection is to consult a veterinarian. This is crucial to ensure comfort, maintain auditory health, and prevent potential complications like hearing loss.
Ear infections can be treated with medication, but it's essential to follow the veterinarian's instructions and complete the full treatment course to prevent recurrent ear issues.
Home remedies, such as diluted apple cider vinegar ear washes, can be used for mild issues or maintenance, but always consult the vet before initiating any home treatments to ensure safety and efficacy.
Ear infections can cause a range of symptoms, including redness, swelling, discharge, a bad smell, excessive scratching, and head shaking. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to visit a veterinarian.
Frequent head shaking and scratching at the ears are common signs of an ear infection in Dachshunds. These symptoms can be a sign of potential discomfort due to an ear issue.
Treating ear infections promptly is essential to prevent further complications and ensure your Dachshund's comfort.
For more insights, see: Dog Ear Odor Home Remedy
Why Are They So Large?

Dachshunds' ears are big because they're scent hounds, and their floppy ears help them catch scent particles while running through undergrowth.
Their ears are actually a characteristic of domestic dog breeds, and in the wild, all types of dogs had ears that stood upright.
Their hearing is much wider ranging than humans, which explains why they bark at twigs falling from a tree or the wind blowing outside.
It's not uncommon for Dachshunds to get frightened of loud noises like fireworks or thunder, as it's pretty loud to them.
The length of a Dachshund's ears has nothing to do with their ability to track a scent, but rather it's a trait that's been passed down through domestic breeding.
Preventive Care and Maintenance
Regular ear checks and cleaning are crucial for maintaining your Dachshund's ear health. This should be done at least once a week to prevent infections.
Using a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution is essential, as it will efficiently clean the dog's ears and remove bad odor. Our Dachshund Ear Cleaner features natural and dog-safe ingredients that make it a great choice.
Cleaning the dog's ears with a solution containing marigolds, beeswax, and aloe vera is safe and effective. This is because these ingredients are gentle on the dog's ears and prevent infections.
If you notice severe redness, swelling, or discharge in your Dachshund's ear, consult your veterinarian before proceeding with cleaning.
To clean your Dachshund's ears, start by gently petting them to make them comfortable. This will help reduce stress and make the process easier.
Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your Dachshund's ears:
- Calm your dog
- Examine the ear for signs of infection or irritation
- Apply a cleaning solution to the ear canal
- Massage the base of the ear to loosen debris and wax
- Allow your dog to shake its head to bring the loosened debris to the outer part of the ear canal
- Wipe away debris with cotton balls or gauze
- Repeat on the other ear
Remember to always use a vet-approved cleaning solution and to consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about any aspect of ear care.
What's the Best Way to Restrain?
Restraint is a crucial part of ear cleaning for your Dachshund. Gently restrain your Dachshund by placing them in your lap or on a secure surface. You might need someone to help hold them if they are particularly squirmy.
Speak in a calm, soothing voice to help your Dachshund feel more at ease. Offering treats during and after the process can create a positive association.
15. Signs I'm Spoiling My Dog Too Much

If you're overindulging your dog, they might start to rely on you for everything. Over-reliance can be a sign of spoiling.
You might notice your dog becoming anxious or destructive when you're not around to entertain them. This could be a sign that they're not learning to self-soothe.
Redness, itching, and increased sensitivity in the ears can also be a sign of over-spoiling, as it can lead to irritation and dryness if the ears are not given time to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often wonder about the unique characteristics of wiener dog ears. They are folded back against the head.
One common question is whether wiener dog ears are a breed standard. They are, in fact, a breed standard for the Dachshund breed.
Wiener dog ears can be prone to infections due to their folded shape. This is because moisture can get trapped, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow.

Some people may wonder if they can train their wiener dog to stand up straight. However, the breed's unique ear shape is a result of its genetics and cannot be changed through training.
The folded shape of wiener dog ears can also make them more susceptible to ear mites. Regular cleaning and checking can help prevent infestations.
It's not uncommon for people to ask if wiener dog ears are more prone to injury than other breeds. While they can be more vulnerable, proper care and attention can minimize the risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Dachshunds have big floppy ears?
Dachshunds' big floppy ears protected them from dirt and debris during hunting, helping to keep their ears clean and clear. This practical feature was a result of careful breeding by early dachshund breeders.
Sources
- https://witzig.com/blogs/news/how-to-clean-your-dachshund-s-ears
- https://dachshundspace.com/dachshund-ear-infection-how-to-treat-it
- https://www.vet-organics.com/pages/cleaning-dachshund-ears
- https://iheartdogs.com/how-to-clean-a-dachshunds-ears/
- https://www.ilovedachshunds.com/why-do-dachshunds-have-big-ears/
Featured Images: pexels.com