If you’re a proud dachshund parent, you’ve probably noticed that these adorable little sausages are prone to some bad ear odors from time to time. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Dachshund smelly ears are a common issue and can be caused by a variety of things, from ear infections to poor cleaning habits. Let’s dive into what’s going on, how to spot the problem, and how to fix it.
Why Do Dachshund Ears Smell?
As you can guess, dachshunds are prone to ear problems because of their adorable floppy ears. Those long ears trap moisture and debris, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to throw a little party. A smelly odor from your dachshund’s ear can often mean:
- Ear Infections in Dachshunds
This is one of the most common causes of dachshund smelly ears. Infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they thrive in the dark, moist environment of your pup’s floppy ears. Look for redness, swelling, and maybe even some yellow or brown discharge. Your pup might also scratch their ears excessively or tilt their head more than usual. If your dachshund has red ears and a sour or musty smell, it’s a clear sign of an ear infection. - Wax Buildup
Over time, wax can accumulate in your dachshund’s ears, trapping dirt and debris. This buildup not only smells bad but also increases the risk of infections. - Allergies
Many dachshunds are prone to allergies—whether it’s food, seasonal, or environmental. Allergies can cause inflammation in the ears, making them more susceptible to infection and that dreaded odor. Therefore, if you notice your Doxie started to shake his head and scratch his ears every time you get back from a walk, then he probably has an environmental allergy. - Moisture
Water trapped in the ears after a bath, swim, or rainy walk can become a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, leading to a bad smell. That’s why it’s extremely important to pick up the water from the dog’s ears with a cotton ball or a dry towel. Wiener dogs are especially prone to this issue and you need to regularly check their ears.
How to Discover an Ear Infection in Dachshunds
Spotting an ear infection in dachshunds early can save your pup from discomfort and prevent the problem from worsening. Here are some telltale signs:
- Scratching Dachshund Ears: If your pup is constantly scratching at their ears or pawing at their head, something’s up.
- Head Shaking: Frequent head shaking is another common symptom. Your dog might be trying to relieve the itchiness or discomfort caused by an infection.
- Red Dachshund Ears: Check the inside of the ears. Healthy ears should be a pale pink. If they’re red or inflamed, it’s a sign of trouble.
- Odor from Dachshund Ears: A strong, unpleasant smell coming from your dog’s ears is one of the most obvious signs of an infection.
- Discharge: Look for yellow, brown, or even black gunk in the ears. This is often accompanied by the funky smell.
- Dog rubs his head onto the floor: When the dog rubs his ear onto the floor, then he probably got something stuck in the ear or developed a bacterial infection.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to clean their ears or consult your vet for professional treatment.
How to Clean Dachshund Smelly Ears
Cleaning your dachshund’s ears regularly is one of the best ways to prevent smelly ears and infections. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Gather Supplies: You’ll need cotton balls or pads, a vet-approved ear cleaner, or a homemade solution (don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a recipe below). Never use Q-tips—they can push debris further in or even damage the ear canal.
- Calm Your Dachshund: Make the experience as stress-free as possible with a calm environment and maybe some treats.Give your dog some interactive dog toy to play with where he will need to search for the treats inside of it. Another useful trick is to put your dog in a bathtub and smear the peanut butter on a silicone sticker that you’ll put on your bathtub. That’s how your dog will get distracted.
- Apply Cleaner: Gently lift the ear flap and pour a few drops of the ear-cleaning solution into the ear canal. Don’t worry if it seems messy—it’s supposed to loosen the gunk. We recommend you to check the following Dachshund Ear Cleaner because it repairs ear canal, cleans up cerumen, and removes bad odor.
- Massage the Base: Gently massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds. This helps the cleaner break down wax and debris.
- Wipe Away Debris: Use a cotton ball or a soft cloth to wipe out the loosened debris and wax. Be gentle but thorough.
- Reward Time: Once you’re done, reward your pup with treats or praise for being a good sport.
Regular cleaning can prevent that funky odor from dachshund ears and keep infections at bay.
Best Homemade Solution to Clean Dachshund Ears
Sometimes, a vet-approved cleaner isn’t handy, and you need a DIY fix. Luckily, making your own homemade solution to clean dachshund ears is simple and effective.
- Ingredients: Mix equal parts white apple vinegar and water (use distilled water if you have it).
- How It Works: Vinegar is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. It helps break down wax and fights off the bacteria and yeast that cause smelly ears.
How to Use It:
- Apply a few drops of the solution into your dachshund’s ear canal.
- Massage the base of the ear gently for about 20 seconds.
- Wipe away the loosened debris with a cotton ball or cloth.
Important: If your dog’s ears are red, inflamed, or have open sores, skip the vinegar—it might sting and make things worse.
When to See the Vet
If you’ve tried cleaning the ears and the smell persists, or if you notice severe symptoms like constant dachshund scratching ears, swelling, or discharge, it’s time to call the vet. Chronic infections might be tied to underlying issues like allergies or even ear mites, which require professional treatment.
Prevention Tips for Dachshund Smelly Ears
Keeping your dachshund’s ears clean and healthy can prevent a lot of headaches (and odors!). Here’s how:
- Clean their ears weekly or as recommended by your vet to remove debris and wax buildup.
- Dry their ears thoroughly after baths or swimming to prevent moisture from lingering.
- Watch for early signs of ear infection in dachshunds, like redness, odor, or excessive scratching.
- Feed a balanced diet to minimize allergy-related ear problems. If you suspect that your dog suffers from food allergies, then your vet will prescribe you the elimination diet. Another solution is to switch to a raw diet. It includes feeding your pooch with raw meat, fresh veggies, fruits, and raw eggs.
Dachshund Smelly Ears: Wrapping Up
Dealing with dachshund smelly ears might not be the most glamorous part of owning this lovable breed, but it’s an important one. With regular ear cleaning, quick attention to symptoms, and occasional vet checkups, you can keep your pup’s ears fresh, healthy, and free of that funky smell. Your dachshund deserves to feel and smell as amazing as they look!