The Great Ear Plucking Debate

Alright, let’s talk about ear plucking. It’s one of those things nobody and everybody is discussing right now. If you’ve heard mixed messages about it, you’re not alone. Dog groomers are constantly debating this topic. Spoiler alert: there’s no definitive answer--sorry!

The Old Way of Thinking

Back in the day, we all plucked dog ear hair like it was our job (because it was!). Groomers everywhere were told to do it for every dog. That’s just how we were taught in grooming school. But new research says, "Not so fast!" Turns out, pulling out that hair might’ve caused more harm than good.

So, What’s the Big Deal?

Ear plucking doesn’t always lead to ear infections, but it can be hit or miss with how dogs react. Here’s the scoop: when you pluck hair from your dog’s ear, you open up hair follicles. It might seem harmless, but this can let bacteria and yeast slip in, potentially causing infections. Also, some dogs don’t like the plucking and might start scratching or shaking their heads, which can lead to painful issues like ear hematomas. So, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation—some dogs handle it just fine, while others might not.

What Vets Are Saying Now

Veterinary dermatologists are now telling us to hit the brakes on ear plucking. Dr. Heide Newton, a vet from Tucson, Arizona, recommends cleaning the ears but skipping the plucking. Instead, trim or scissor any excess hair around the ear. It’s less invasive and keeps your pup comfy. This is something we've incorporated into our routine grooming services at The Top Knot Pet Grooming & Atelier.

And no, giving your dog a bath isn’t going to cause ear infections. That’s a big fat myth. As long as the water you're bathing with is clean, you’re good. Now, if your dog is taking a dip in lake Ontario, that’s a different story.

Is Ear Plucking Ever Okay?

Here’s where things get tricky. Some vets still see the value in plucking for certain dogs. And honestly, if the hair comes out easily and your dog isn’t bothered by it, we can do it without much fuss. We’ll use ear powder to make it more comfortable, but if your dog is clearly upset or resisting, we won’t force it. At the end of the day, your dog’s comfort comes first.

If your dog keeps getting ear infections, it’s time to check in with your vet. They’ll give you a plan that’s specific to your dog’s needs. But as a general rule, we’re moving away from ear plucking unless there’s a good reason to do it. We’ll clean the ears and keep them tidy, but no need to stress those ear canals unnecessarily.

So next time you’re in for a grooming session, know that we’re here to make sure your dog’s ears are healthy and comfortable. And hey, if you ever have questions, just ask!