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What should I do after my dog swims to prevent ear infections?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Dry the outer ear and ear canal opening gently with a towel or cotton ball after every swim, since trapped moisture creates an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Dogs with floppy ears or a history of ear infections benefit most from this habit and may need a vet recommended drying solution after water exposure.
Why swimming raises ear infection risk
Water that gets trapped in the ear canal, especially in breeds with floppy ears that restrict airflow, creates a warm, moist environment that bacteria and yeast can multiply in far more easily than in a dry, well ventilated ear.
A simple after-swim drying routine
Gently drying the visible part of the ear and the entrance to the canal with a soft towel or cotton ball, without pushing anything deep into the ear, removes most surface moisture within a minute or two of finishing a swim.
Extra steps for prone dogs
Dogs with a history of ear infections, particularly floppy eared breeds like spaniels and retrievers, often benefit from a vet recommended drying ear solution used after swimming, applied according to the specific product's instructions.
Key takeaways
- Trapped moisture after swimming creates conditions where ear infections develop more easily.
- Gently drying the outer ear and canal entrance after every swim reduces this risk significantly.
- Floppy eared breeds and dogs with a history of infections often benefit from a vet recommended drying solution.