If your dog has an ear full of dirt, here’s how to clean it out while keeping your relationship with Rover intact.

Start by using an ear cleaner suggested by your veterinarian. You’ll also need some cotton pads or balls (never swabs) and some of your pooch’s favorite treats.

Picture your dog’s ear canal as a 90-degree angle. When you gently pull up the ear flap, the angle straightens so you can fill it with cleaning solution. While still lifting the flap, massage the part of the canal closest to your dog’s head with your other hand. This breaks up the deepest accumulation of dirt and wax. When you let go, your pooch will shake his head, bringing up some of that goo and allowing you to wipe it away with a cotton pad or ball.

Follow up with a treat, a hug and plenty of praise.