Does Plucking a Dog's Ears Hurt?
Does Plucking a Dog's Ears Hurt?
For many dog owners, the thought of plucking their dog's ears may seem like a daunting task. After all, we all want to make sure we're not causing our furry friends any pain or discomfort. But is plucking a dog's ears really as painful as it seems? The answer is: it depends. The discomfort experienced by a dog when its ears are plucked can vary from mild to moderate, depending on the technique used and the dog's individual sensitivity. In some cases, it may even be possible for a dog's ears to be plucked without any discomfort whatsoever.
What Is Ear Plucking?
Ear plucking is the process of removing excess fur from a dog's ears. This may be done for several reasons, from hygiene to preventing infections. It is usually done by a professional groomer, but can also be done at home with the right tools and technique. Plucking a dog’s ears involves gently pulling out hairs from inside the ears. The idea behind this treatment is that removing hair from the ear, mitigates the risk of the ear canal being blocked. Moreover, the additional airflow helps prevent things like gunk from building up or ear infections from developing. You're more likely to come across ear plucking in smaller, fluffy dogs as they have more hair in their ears. So breeds like Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos and Cocker Spaniels are all commonly associated with ear plucking.
The Pros and Cons of Ear Plucking
Ear plucking can have both positive and negative effects on a dog's ears. On the plus side, it can help to keep the ears clean and free of dirt, debris and infection-causing bacteria. It can also help prevent ear mites and other parasites from taking hold in the ear. On the other hand, ear plucking can also lead to discomfort and pain. This is especially true if the fur is pulled too hard or if the wrong technique is used. Additionally, plucking can cause inflammation and irritation of the skin in the ear, which can lead to further discomfort.
What Is the Best Way to Pluck a Dog's Ears?
The best way to pluck a dog's ears is to use a gentle and slow technique. Start by brushing out the fur in the ear with a soft-bristled brush. This will help to loosen any built-up debris and make it easier to pluck the fur. When plucking, use your fingers to gently pull the fur away from the ear. Ear plucking should be done in a slow, gentle manner to avoid any discomfort for your pet. Make sure to pluck in the direction of the fur's growth, as this will help minimise any irritation.
When Should a Dog's Ears Be Plucked?
Most experts recommend plucking a dog's ears about once a month. This will help keep the ears clean and free of dirt and debris, as well as help prevent infection. If a dog is prone to ear infections, more frequent plucking may be necessary.
In conclusion, plucking a dog's ears can be done safely and without discomfort, if the right technique is used. Although ear plucking is a relatively safe treatment, it should still be undertaken carefully to ensure your pet doesn't experience any pain. If you're not comfortable with doing the ear plucking yourself, it's always a good idea to speak with a professional groomer or vet who can help. Ear plucking is just one of the many ways that you can groom your pets to keep them healthy. Head over to our pet grooming products at Bubble Pawz to pamper your pooch and keep them looking, and feeling, great.
