Dog Ear Plucking Grooming: What You Need to Know

Petopia Pet Salon Blog

If your dog has hairy ears, you’ve probably heard mixed advice about whether those hairs

should be plucked. Some vets recommend it, others warn against it, and as a groomer, I often end up caught in the middle. Ear plucking sounds simple, but it’s actually one of the most debated grooming topics.

What Is Ear Plucking?

Ear plucking means gently removing the hair that grows inside the ear canal. Breeds like Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, and Schnauzers often grow a noticeable amount of ear hair.

The idea is that removing the hair may improve airflow and reduce wax or debris buildup.

The Case for Ear Plucking

• Some veterinarians recommend routine dog ear plucking grooming for breeds prone to ear problems.

• Improves airflow → Less trapped heat and moisture in hairy canals, which can reduce the environment where yeast and bacteria thrive.

• Allows easier cleaning → Without hair blocking the ear canal, wipes and cleansers can reach debris more effectively.

• Better visibility for vets → Removing excess hair makes it easier for your vet or groomer to see redness, swelling, or early signs of infection.

• Breed tradition → In some breeds (like Poodles, Doodles, and Bichons), plucking has been a long-standing grooming practice and some owners expect it for cosmetic as well as health reasons.

  
  

The Case Against Ear Plucking

• Plucking can irritate the sensitive skin inside the ear canal.

• Irritation may cause redness or inflammation, which can make infection more likely.

• Some veterinarians advise leaving the ear hair alone unless there’s an actual problem.

• A number of vets also don’t want anything in the ear unless it’s necessary — including powders, cleansers, and wipes — since introducing products can sometimes do more harm than good.

• For some dogs, ear plucking can be uncomfortable or even painful — especially if the hair is coarse or tightly packed. That’s one of the main reasons many vets have shifted away from recommending it as a routine practice. At the same time, leaving too much hair can trap moisture and debris, which may contribute to ear infections.

  
  

  It really comes down to the individual dog — their ear type, health history, and how sensitive they are. That’s why I take a case-by-case approach, and why I always encourage owners to talk with their vet before deciding what’s best for their pup.

The Groomer’s Dilemma

This difference of opinion leaves us in a tricky spot.

• If we pluck, some clients or vets may feel it caused irritation, which led to an infection.

• If we don’t pluck, others may feel we should have done it to help prevent infection.

There really isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Again, that’s why I always recommend checking with your veterinarian about what’s right for your dog.

Tips for Pet Parents

• Ask your vet whether ear plucking is recommended for your dog’s breed and health history.

• Don’t worry if your vet advises against it — plenty of dogs stay healthy without ear plucking.

• Keep ears clean and dry, especially after swimming or baths.

• During grooming, I’ll always check your dog’s ears and let you know if I see signs of infection such as odor, redness, or discharge.

My Policy at Petopia

At Petopia Pet Salon, I only perform dog ear plucking grooming upon request.

Because the advice varies depending on the dog and the vet, I leave the final decision up to you and your veterinarian. Some dogs truly benefit from ear plucking, while others are healthier when we leave the ear hair alone. My job is to follow your wishes and keep your dog comfortable and safe.

Conclusion

Ear plucking is one of those grooming practices where advice isn’t always the same. What matters most is what’s right for your dog. By working together — you, your vet, and me — we can make the best decision for your pup’s health and comfort.

At Petopia, my goal is always to provide gentle, stress-free grooming that supports your dog’s overall well-being. 🐾