Some dogs that have healthy, clean ears may never need to have their ears cleaned. However, it is recommended to clean your dogs ears if you notice discharge or an odor when examining the ear. Your veterinarian can help you decide how often your dogs ears should be cleaned. If your dogs ears are red, inflamed, and painful, consult with your veterinarian prior to cleaning. Your dog may have an ear infection or a ruptured ear drum. Step-by-Step Guide for Ear Cleaning