Mini Golden Ear Care: Cleaning Tips That Matter

When you think about caring for your Mini Golden Retriever, things like feeding, exercise, and playtime usually come to mind first. But there’s one small area that can cause big problems if overlooked—their ears.

Those soft, floppy Mini Golden ears are undeniably adorable, but they also create the perfect environment for moisture, wax, and bacteria to build up. At Big Hearted Breeders, we’ve seen just how common (and preventable!) ear issues can be, especially in doodle and retriever mixes.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about ear cleaning—from why it matters to how to do it the gentle, natural way.

Why Ear Cleaning Matters (Especially for Mini Goldens)

Mini Goldens are known for their loving nature, manageable size, and soft, wavy coats—but their ears require a little extra attention.

Because their ear flaps hang down and cover the canal, airflow is limited. That means moisture from baths, swimming, or even humid weather can get trapped inside. Combined with natural wax production and the occasional rolled-in mystery substance (hello, muddy puddle), it can lead to:

• Yeast infections
• Bacterial buildup
• Uncomfortable itching and scratching
• Ear odor or discharge

We’ve had puppy parents call us worried their Mini Golden was shaking their head constantly or rubbing their ears on the furniture. Nine times out of ten, a simple cleaning routine can help prevent these issues before they ever start.

Signs Your Mini Golden’s Ears Need Cleaning

Every dog is different, but here are a few clues your pup might be due for a clean:

• A musty or sour smell near the ears
• Visible dirt or dark wax inside the ear flap
• Frequent head shaking or pawing at the ear
• Sensitivity when touched near the head
• Redness or visible discharge

If your Mini Golden is showing signs of pain, swelling, or constant scratching, be sure to check in with your vet to rule out infection. But for everyday maintenance, gentle cleaning is usually enough.

How Often Should You Clean Their Ears?

We recommend checking your dog’s ears once a week and cleaning as needed—usually once every 2–4 weeks for most Mini Goldens.

That frequency might increase if your pup:

• Swims regularly
• Has allergies
• Produces a lot of wax
• Loves rolling in everything

The key is to get to know what’s normal for your dog’s ears, so you can spot when something’s off.

A Gentle, Holistic Ear Cleaning Routine

At Big Hearted Breeders, we use a gentle and holistic approach. Here’s how to safely clean your Mini Golden’s ears at home:

What You’ll Need:

• A natural ear cleaner (I love and highly recommend PawTree’s Ear Wash & Ear Dry duo)
• Soft cotton pads or cotton balls (never Q-tips)
• Towel (your pup might shake!)

Steps:

1. Get comfortable. Sit with your dog in a calm, well-lit space. Treats nearby help!
2. Lift the ear flap. Check for redness, odor, or discharge. A little wax is normal.
3. Apply cleaner. Follow the instructions on your ear solution. Usually, a few drops into the canal, then gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds.
4. Let the shake happen. Your dog will probably shake their head—this helps loosen debris.
5. Wipe away debris. Use a cotton pad to gently wipe the outer ear and visible canal. Do not insert anything deep into the ear.
6. Reward your pup. Make it a positive experience so next time is even easier.

What to Avoid

• No cotton swabs (Q-tips): These can push wax deeper or damage the ear canal.
• No hydrogen peroxide: Too harsh for regular use and can irritate the skin.
• No strong perfumes or essential oils directly in the ear. Even natural oils must be properly diluted and vet-approved.
• Never force cleaning. If your pup is distressed or in pain, stop and consult your vet.

Keeping Ears Healthy Between Cleanings

• Dry ears thoroughly after baths or swimming. A towel and a few extra minutes go a long way.
• Keep hair trimmed around the ear opening. This improves airflow and reduces buildup.
• Watch for seasonal allergies. If your Mini Golden gets itchy paws or eyes, their ears may be affected too.

We also recommend checking ears during your weekly grooming routine—along with brushing and nail checks—so it becomes a natural part of caring for your pup.

 From Our Family to Yours

As ethical breeders who love these dogs like our own, we know that small habits lead to big health benefits. Ear cleaning may not be the most glamorous part of puppy parenting, but it’s one of the most important—and it’s a simple act of love that goes a long way.

We’re always here to support our Big Hearted Breeder families with real-life advice that works for real dogs. Got questions? We’re only a message away.

Mini Golden Ear Care FAQ

How often should I clean my Mini Golden’s ears?
About every 2–4 weeks, or more often if they swim or get dirty frequently.

What ear cleaner do you recommend?
We prefer gentle, alcohol-free options with natural ingredients like witch hazel or chamomile. We recommend PawTree’s duo of ear wash and ear dry.

My dog hates ear cleaning. What can I do?
Use positive reinforcement, go slowly, and make it part of your regular routine. If needed, do one ear at a time.

Can I just use a baby wipe?
Only on the outer ear flap—never inside the canal. And be sure it’s fragrance-free and dog-safe.

What’s the most common mistake people make?
Using Q-tips or over-cleaning. Less is more—aim to keep the ears dry and balanced, not squeaky clean.

Looking for more holistic care tips for your Mini Golden?
Explore our blog at Big Hearted Breeders, where we share the love (and the know-how) behind raising happy, healthy pups.