Canadian summers mean lakes, rivers, backyard pools, and dogs that live for the water. But all that swimming comes with a common side effect: moisture trapped in the ear canal, which can lead to irritation sometimes called "swimmer's ear." The good news is that a simple drying routine after water time prevents the vast majority of problems. Here's what every owner of a water-loving dog should know.
Why Swimming Affects Ears
A dog's ear canal is L-shaped, with a long vertical section that traps moisture easily. After swimming, water can sit in the canal for hours, especially in floppy-eared breeds where the ear flap seals moisture in. Warm, damp ear canals are more prone to irritation and microbial overgrowth, which is why ear complaints spike in summer among swimming dogs. Lake and river water adds organic matter and debris to the mix.
The Post-Swim Routine
- Dry the ears right away. As soon as your dog is out of the water, lift each ear flap and gently pat the inside dry with a soft towel or dry cloth. Don't skip this because your dog "shook it off"; shaking clears the outer ear, not the canal.
- Use a drying wipe or vet-approved drying aid. A gentle ear wipe helps remove residual moisture from the reachable ear. If your vet has recommended a drying solution for your swimmer, use it as directed after swims.
- Let the ears air out. After drying, give the ears some airflow time before your dog settles in for a nap. For floppy-eared dogs, you can gently fold the ear flap back for a few minutes (if your dog tolerates it) to ventilate the canal.
- Clean on schedule during swim season. Swimming dogs benefit from weekly ear cleaning through the summer to clear the extra debris and wax that water activity stirs up.
Bath Time Counts Too
The same principles apply to baths. When bathing your dog, try to keep water out of the ears: you can place a cotton ball loosely at the ear opening (not pushed in) as a splash guard, and always dry the ears after the bath. If water does get in, dry thoroughly and watch for head shaking in the following days.
When to See Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian if, after swimming, your dog develops persistent head shaking, scratching at the ears, a noticeable odour, discharge, or redness inside the ear. These signs suggest irritation or infection that needs professional assessment. Don't try to flush the ears at home or use unapproved solutions; the wrong approach can make things worse.
Cottage and Lake Season in Canada
For many Canadian families, summer means the cottage, and cottage means daily swimming for the dog. If your dog is in the lake every day from July through August, make post-swim ear drying as automatic as towelling off. Keep a dedicated "lake kit" at the cottage: towels, ear wipes, and any vet-recommended drying aid, so the routine happens even when everyone's relaxed. Watch for the pattern of head shaking that starts a day or two after swimming begins; catching it early in cottage season prevents a ruined week waiting for a vet appointment in an unfamiliar town.
Key Takeaways
- Always dry your dog's ears after swimming, bathing, or heavy rain.
- Swimming dogs need weekly ear cleaning during the summer season.
- Keep bath water out of the ears and dry them after every wash.
- Persistent shaking, odour, or discharge after water exposure warrants a vet visit.
Note: This article provides general information only. Consult your veterinarian for specific health concerns.
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