Gather dog ear cleaner, cotton balls or gauze, and treats
Check the ears for redness, swelling, odor, discharge, or pain
Hold the ear flap upright and gently lift it
Apply the ear cleaner into the ear canal as directed on the product
Massage the base of the ear for several seconds
Let your dog shake its head
Wipe away loosened debris from the outer ear with cotton balls or gauze
Clean only the visible parts of the ear
Avoid using cotton swabs inside the ear canal
Repeat on the other ear if needed
Reward your dog after cleaning
Stop and contact a veterinarian if the ear looks infected or your dog seems painful