Gather dog ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze, and treats
Check the ears for redness, swelling, odor, discharge, or pain
Hold the dog calmly and lift the ear flap
Put a few drops of ear cleaner into the ear canal
Massage the base of the ear for 20 to 30 seconds
Let the dog shake its head
Wipe away loosened debris from the outer ear with cotton ball or gauze
Clean only the visible parts of the ear
Repeat on the other ear
Give a treat and praise the dog
Stop and contact a veterinarian if the ear looks infected or the dog is in pain
Do not use cotton swabs deep in the ear canal
Clean ears only as often as needed or as directed by a veterinarian