Best Ear Cleaners for Scottish Terriers

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser — best for Preventing ear infections in Scottish Terriers with floppy ears. Why it wins: Gentle and non-irritating.

Scottish Terriers are prone to chronic ear infections due to their floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections and reduce the risk of complications. The breed's independent and feisty nature can make ear cleaning a challenging task, but with the right products and techniques, owners can help keep their Scottish Terrier's ears clean and healthy. The Scottish Terrier's ear shape and structure require gentle, vet-style drying solutions to prevent irritation and infection. Owners should look for ear cleaners specifically designed for small breeds with floppy ears, taking into account the breed's moderate energy level and high grooming needs. By prioritizing ear care, owners can help reduce the risk of ear infections and associated health issues, such as patellar luxation and bladder cancer, which are common in the breed. With the right ear cleaner, owners can help keep their Scottish Terrier's ears clean, dry, and free from infection, reducing the risk of costly health issues and ensuring a happy, healthy life for their pet.

What to look for

Ear Shape and Structure

Scottish Terriers have floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to ear infections. Look for ear cleaners specifically designed for small breeds with floppy ears. The product should be gentle and non-irritating to prevent further irritation.

pH Level and Gentle Formula

A low pH formula can help disrupt bacterial and yeast biofilms, while a gentle, non-irritating formula is essential for routine maintenance use. This is particularly important for Scottish Terriers, as their independent nature can make them more sensitive to harsh products.

Drying and Debris Removal

Effective drying and debris removal are critical to preventing ear infections in Scottish Terriers. Look for products that not only clean but also dry the ear canal, helping to prevent the growth of bacteria and yeast. This is especially important given the breed's predisposition to bladder cancer and patellar luxation, which can be exacerbated by neglecting ear care.

Size and Concentration

For small breeds like the Scottish Terrier, it's essential to choose an ear cleaner that is specifically designed for their size and needs. A concentrated formula may be too harsh, while a gentle, vet-style solution can help prevent irritation and infection.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser	Preventing ear infections in Scottish Terriers with floppy ears
2	Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bioxin	Soothing and calming irritated ears in Scottish Terriers
3	Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy	Cleaning and deodorizing Scottish Terrier ears
4	DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin Cleanser	Multi-purpose ear and skin cleaning for Scottish Terriers
5	Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs	Gentle ear cleaning for Scottish Terriers with sensitive ears

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser

Best for Preventing ear infections in Scottish Terriers with floppy ears

The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a top pick for Scottish Terriers due to its low pH formula, which disrupts bacterial and yeast biofilms, and its anti-adhesive properties, which prevent pathogen adherence. This gentle, non-irritating formula is perfect for routine maintenance use, making it an ideal choice for owners who want to keep their Scottish Terrier's ears clean and healthy. The product's effectiveness in preventing ear infections is particularly important for this breed, given their elevated risk of bladder cancer and patellar luxation.

✓ Gentle and non-irritating
✓ Effective against bacterial and yeast infections
✓ Easy to use and convenient

✕ May not be as effective for severe ear infections

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Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bioxin

Best for Soothing and calming irritated ears in Scottish Terriers

The Zymox Ear Cleanser with Bioxin is a great choice for Scottish Terriers with irritated or infected ears. Its enzymatic formula and bio-active enzymes help inhibit bacterial and yeast growth, while its non-stinging and gentle properties make it perfect for sensitive ears. This product is especially useful for owners who need to clean their Scottish Terrier's ears regularly, given the breed's high grooming needs.

✓ Soothing and calming
✓ Effective against bacterial and yeast infections
✓ Non-stinging and gentle

✕ May not be as effective for severe ear infections

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Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy

Best for Cleaning and deodorizing Scottish Terrier ears

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Ear Therapy is a great all-around ear cleaner for Scottish Terriers. It cleans, deodorizes, and dries the ear canal, while its aloe vera content helps soothe and calm irritated ears. This product is perfect for owners who want a simple and effective ear cleaning solution for their Scottish Terrier, taking into account the breed's moderate energy level and need for regular grooming.

✓ Cleans, deodorizes, and dries the ear canal
✓ Soothing and calming
✓ Easy to use

✕ May not be as effective for severe ear infections

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DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin Cleanser

Best for Multi-purpose ear and skin cleaning for Scottish Terriers

The DermaPet MalAcetic Ultra Otic Ear and Skin Cleanser is a versatile product that can be used to clean both the ears and skin folds of Scottish Terriers. Its acetic acid and boric acid formula help acidify the ear canal, inhibiting pathogen growth and making it an effective solution for preventing ear infections. This product is particularly useful for owners who want to simplify their grooming routine, given the breed's high grooming needs.

✓ Multi-purpose
✓ Effective against bacterial and yeast infections
✓ Easy to use

✕ May not be as gentle as other products

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Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs

Best for Gentle ear cleaning for Scottish Terriers with sensitive ears

The Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs is a gentle and fragrance-free ear cleaner that is perfect for Scottish Terriers with sensitive ears. Its gentle cleansing and drying formula makes it an excellent choice for routine maintenance use, helping to prevent ear infections and associated health issues. This product is especially useful for owners who prioritize their Scottish Terrier's comfort and well-being, given the breed's independent and feisty nature.

✓ Gentle and fragrance-free
✓ Effective for routine maintenance use
✓ Easy to use

✕ May not be as effective for severe ear infections

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my Scottish Terrier's ears?

It's recommended to clean your Scottish Terrier's ears at least once a week, or as needed. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent ear infections and reduce the risk of complications. Be sure to use a gentle, vet-style ear cleaner specifically designed for small breeds with floppy ears.

What are the signs of an ear infection in Scottish Terriers?

Signs of an ear infection in Scottish Terriers may include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment. Early detection and treatment can help prevent more severe health issues, such as patellar luxation and bladder cancer.

Can I use human ear cleaners on my Scottish Terrier?

No, it's not recommended to use human ear cleaners on your Scottish Terrier. Human ear cleaners can be too harsh and may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Instead, choose a gentle, vet-style ear cleaner specifically designed for small breeds with floppy ears, taking into account the breed's independent and feisty nature.

How can I prevent ear infections in my Scottish Terrier?

To prevent ear infections in your Scottish Terrier, it's essential to clean their ears regularly, dry them thoroughly after cleaning, and avoid inserting objects into the ear canal. You should also monitor your pet's ear health and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any signs of infection or discomfort. Regular grooming and check-ups can help identify potential issues early, reducing the risk of complications and associated health issues.

What is the best ear cleaner for Scottish Terriers with sensitive ears?

For Scottish Terriers with sensitive ears, it's recommended to use a gentle, fragrance-free ear cleaner. The Vet Classics Ear Wash for Dogs is a great option, as it is specifically designed for sensitive ears and is gentle and non-irritating. This product is especially useful for owners who prioritize their Scottish Terrier's comfort and well-being, given the breed's independent and feisty nature.

When it comes to choosing the best ear cleaner for your Scottish Terrier, prioritize products that are gentle, non-irritating, and specifically designed for small breeds with floppy ears. The Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a top pick, offering a low pH formula and anti-adhesive properties that make it an effective solution for preventing ear infections. By investing in a high-quality ear cleaner and prioritizing your pet's ear health, you can help reduce the risk of costly health issues and ensure a happy, healthy life for your Scottish Terrier. Regular grooming and check-ups can also help identify potential issues early, reducing the risk of complications and associated health issues.

More for your Scottish Terrier

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Best Ear Cleaners for other breeds

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