At Doodle Dandy Rescue, we’re all about keeping our fluffy friends healthy, happy, and ready for their next big cuddle session. Whether your Doodle is a doodle-bug-in-training or a seasoned snuggle pro, taking care of their ears and pearly whites is just as important as belly rubs (okay, almost as important).
We got the inside scoop from Dr. Brown at Sayers Veterinary Clinic and we’re here to pass it along to our Doodle fam. So, let’s break it down Doodle style, with the best ways to keep your pup’s ears clean and their smile sparkling!
EAR-resistible Care Tips
Doodles are known for those big, floppy, adorable ears, but all that fluff can trap gunk, moisture, and bacteria, leading to ear infections if we’re not careful. Dogs need weekly ear cleanings, yes weekly! Use an antibacterial and anti-fungal ear cleanser or wipes. Try brands like Keto-C, MalAcetic Ultra, or Triz Ultra Keto (bonus points for ones with Triz EDTA). Only use Q-tips on the outer cartilage, if needed.
Got tear stains? Use the same antibacterial cleanser to gently wipe under each lower eyelid to help lighten and prevent those stubborn reddish marks. Just don’t let the cleanser touch the eye itself! Use warm water to flush if needed. Try Angel Eyes or Eye Envy for a little extra sparkle.
Pro Tip: Use unscented baby wipes (not cotton balls) and clean the hairless skin area inside the ear flap and the ear canal gently. No digging!
Say "Cheese!" Dental Do’s and Don'ts
Doodles like to smile, especially after a good zoomie session, but their pearly whites need protection too. Dental disease can sneak up fast, and Doodles are notorious for hiding discomfort until it gets serious. Don’t worry, we’ve got options that even picky pups will love (and no, we’re not talking about brushing with bacon toothpaste at midnight).
Keep those chompers healthy with:
1. Water additives with Chlorhexidine or EDTA (like Aquadent or TrisDent) that you can add to their water bowl.
2. VOHC-approved chews like C.E.T. chews or OraVet. Look for products with chlorhexidine or Delmopinol to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup.
3. Skip rawhides and other tough chews that could cause injury. Stick with fully digestible options.
P.S. If it’s too hard to bend with your hands, don’t let your pup chew it. We love their teeth too much!
Final Barks of Wisdom
Floppy ears and fluffy faces are part of the Doodle charm, but that comes with a little extra upkeep. By working these simple ear and dental routines into your weekly schedule with the right products (many of which are available on Chewy, Amazon, or your vet’s online pharmacy), you’ll be helping your pup feel great, look adorable, and avoid some not-so-fun vet visits. Your Doodle’s tail wags will say it all and always talk to your vet before starting something new!
Huge thanks to Dr. Brown at Sayers Vet for this goldmine of vet-approved, care tips. If you’re ever looking for a four-legged, Doodle friend to pamper, cuddle, and spoil with ear wipes, you know Doodle Dandy Rescue has the perfect pup for you. Be sure to check out our other blogs and follow us for all our fluffy adventures!