Gather dog ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze, and treats
Check the ears for redness, swelling, bad odor, discharge, pain, or excessive wax
Do not clean if the ear looks injured or infected; contact a veterinarian
Hold your dog calmly and lift one ear flap
Fill the ear canal with the vet-approved ear cleaner
Gently massage the base of the ear for 20 to 30 seconds
Let your dog shake its head
Wipe away loosened debris from the outer ear with cotton ball or gauze
Do not use cotton swabs inside the ear canal
Repeat on the other ear
Reward your dog with a treat
Clean ears only as often as needed or as directed by your veterinarian