Dogs with hanging ears are especially prone to ear infections.

A foul odor coming from the ears is one sign there's a problem. Head-shaking or ear-scratching are others.

Especially prone to ear infections are the flop-eared retriever and spaniel breeds, as well as long-eared dogs such as basset hounds or bloodhounds. These pets have ears that hang over the entrance to the ear canal, preventing the canals from ever drying out. Allergies can also play a role in many chronic ear problems.

Prevention is always the best medicine. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a product that dissolves wax and debris gently but thoroughly, and is easy on the surrounding tissues. To clean the ear flap, pull the ear straight out from the head at an almost 90-degree angle and apply the ear solution. Once the cleaning solution is in the ear, massage the base of the ear with your fingers for about 30 seconds.

A good head-shake from your dog will get rid of the excess solution, and a small food reward will thank him for his tolerance. Then wrap a small piece of gauze or light cloth around your index finger and probe the outer part of the ear canal to wipe clean the wax and debris that the fluid has loosened. Don't use a cotton swab, as it's possible to go too deep and break the eardrum.

If your pet is prone to ear infections, work with your veterinarian to discover why and correct the problem. Ear infections are painful, and chronic ear infections can lead to hearing loss and other problems. You'll want to know how to best protect your dog from the suffering that goes with this common health problem.