Q: My Labrador loves swimming, but I’ve heard that too much water exposure can lead to ear infections. How can I prevent this?

A: You’re absolutely right that water-loving breeds like Labradors are prone to ear infections due to moisture getting trapped in their ears, creating a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.

After each swim, gently dry your dog’s ears with a soft towel and consider using a vet-approved ear cleaner to remove excess moisture. When removing moisture, never put anything into the ear canal (unless instructed by a vet), as this can push debris further in and exacerbate the issue. Just dry the ears as best you can, which should help keep infections at bay.

However, if you notice a bad smell, excessive head shaking, or redness inside the ears, it’s best to see your vet for treatment.