Clean the outer ear gently with a dog-safe ear cleaner
Wipe away visible discharge with gauze or a soft cotton pad
Keep the ear dry
Prevent your dog from scratching or shaking the head excessively
Use an Elizabethan collar if needed
Check for redness, swelling, odor, discharge, or pain
Remove visible debris only from the outer ear
Do not use cotton swabs deep in the ear canal
Do not use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, vinegar, or human ear drops
Do not use leftover antibiotics or steroid medications
Monitor for worsening symptoms
Seek veterinary care if there is severe pain, bleeding, head tilt, loss of balance, hearing loss, swelling, pus, fever, or no improvement within 24 to 48 hours