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Best Ear Cleaners for English Setters

By PetEssentialist Editorial ยท Updated July 2026

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๐Ÿ† Quick answer

Our top pick is Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser โ€” best for Preventing ear infections. Why it wins: Effective in preventing ear infections.

English Setters are prone to chronic ear infections due to their floppy, hairy ears, which create a warm, moist environment ideal for bacterial and yeast growth. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections and promote healthy ears. The breed's gentle nature makes them a great companion, but their ears require special attention. English Setters need ear cleaners that are gentle, non-irritating, and effective in removing wax and debris. The ear cleaner should also have anti-adhesive properties to prevent pathogen adherence and a low pH formula to disrupt bacterial and yeast biofilms. With the right ear cleaner, English Setter owners can help prevent ear infections and keep their dog's ears healthy. When choosing an ear cleaner for an English Setter, it's essential to consider the dog's ear shape, size, and health needs. A gentle, vet-style drying solution is ideal for this breed, as it will help prevent ear infections and promote healthy ears.

What to look for

Ear Shape and Size

English Setters have floppy, hairy ears that require special attention. The ear cleaner should be designed to reach deep into the ear canal and remove wax and debris effectively. A large-size ear cleaner is recommended to accommodate the breed's ear size.

Gentle and Non-Irritating

English Setters have sensitive ears, and the ear cleaner should be gentle and non-irritating to avoid causing discomfort or allergic reactions. Look for ear cleaners with aloe vera or other soothing ingredients.

Anti-Adhesive Properties

English Setters are prone to chronic ear infections, and the ear cleaner should have anti-adhesive properties to prevent pathogen adherence. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and yeast in the ear canal.

pH Level

The ear cleaner should have a low pH formula to disrupt bacterial and yeast biofilms. This will help prevent the growth of pathogens in the ear canal and promote healthy ears.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose โ†’
#ProductBest for
1Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear CleanserPreventing ear infections
2Zymox Ear Cleanser with BioxinSoothing irritated ears
3Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear TherapyCleaning and deodorizing ears
4DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin CleanserMulti-purpose ear and skin cleaning
5Vet Classics Ear Wash for DogsGentle ear cleaning and drying
1

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser

Best for Preventing ear infections

The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a great choice for English Setters. Its low pH formula disrupts bacterial and yeast biofilms, and its anti-adhesive properties prevent pathogen adherence. This ear cleaner is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for regular use.

  • โœ“ Effective in preventing ear infections
  • โœ“ Gentle and non-irritating
  • โœ“ Easy to use
  • โœ• May not be as effective for severe ear infections
Check price โ†’
2

Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bioxin

Best for Soothing irritated ears

The Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bioxin is a good choice for English Setters with irritated ears. Its enzymatic formula (LP3 Enzyme System) inhibits bacterial and yeast growth, and its bio-active enzymes soothe the ear canal. This ear cleaner is non-stinging and gentle, making it suitable for sensitive ears.

  • โœ“ Soothes irritated ears
  • โœ“ Non-stinging and gentle
  • โœ“ Effective in inhibiting bacterial and yeast growth
  • โœ• May not be as effective for severe ear infections
Check price โ†’
3

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy

Best for Cleaning and deodorizing ears

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy is a good choice for English Setters that need a thorough ear cleaning. Its formula cleans, deodorizes, and dries the ear canal, and its aloe vera soothes the ear. This ear cleaner is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for regular use.

  • โœ“ Effective in cleaning and deodorizing ears
  • โœ“ Gentle and non-irritating
  • โœ“ Soothes the ear canal
  • โœ• May not be as effective for preventing ear infections
Check price โ†’
4

DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin Cleanser

Best for Multi-purpose ear and skin cleaning

The DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin Cleanser is a good choice for English Setters that need a multi-purpose ear and skin cleaner. Its acetic acid and boric acid formula acidifies the ear canal and skin folds, inhibiting pathogen growth. This ear cleaner is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for regular use.

  • โœ“ Multi-purpose ear and skin cleaning
  • โœ“ Gentle and non-irritating
  • โœ“ Effective in inhibiting pathogen growth
  • โœ• May not be as effective for severe ear infections
Check price โ†’
5

Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs

Best for Gentle ear cleaning and drying

The Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs is a good choice for English Setters that need a gentle ear cleaning and drying solution. Its fragrance-free formula is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive ears. This ear cleaner is effective in removing wax and debris, promoting healthy ears.

  • โœ“ Gentle and non-irritating
  • โœ“ Effective in removing wax and debris
  • โœ“ Fragrance-free
  • โœ• May not be as effective for preventing ear infections
Check price โ†’

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my English Setter's ears?

It's recommended to clean your English Setter's ears at least once a week, or as needed. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent ear infections and promote healthy ears.

What are the signs of an ear infection in English Setters?

The signs of an ear infection in English Setters include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can I use human ear cleaners on my English Setter?

No, human ear cleaners are not suitable for dogs. They can be too harsh and may cause irritation or allergic reactions. It's best to use a dog-specific ear cleaner that is gentle and non-irritating.

How can I prevent ear infections in my English Setter?

To prevent ear infections in your English Setter, clean their ears regularly, dry their ears after bathing or swimming, and avoid inserting objects into their ears. Also, ensure your English Setter receives regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their ear health.

What are the consequences of not cleaning my English Setter's ears regularly?

Not cleaning your English Setter's ears regularly can lead to ear infections, which can cause discomfort, pain, and even permanent damage to their ears. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent these complications and promote healthy ears.

When it comes to choosing an ear cleaner for your English Setter, consider their ear shape, size, and health needs. Look for a gentle, non-irritating ear cleaner that is effective in preventing ear infections and promoting healthy ears. By investing in the right ear cleaner and following a regular ear cleaning routine, you can help keep your English Setter's ears healthy and prevent costly health issues.