The ears should be checked weekly for buildup of wax or debris, or any signs of infection. (akc.org)
If you see buildup of wax or dirt, clean it out gently with cotton balls (not swabs!). (mbtca.org)
Temporary or transient deafness is most often due to buildup of wax or debris in the ear canals, while permanent deafness can have a number of causes, including untreated ear infections, injury, drug toxicity, tumors, congenital (birth) defects and old age. (thedrakecenter.com)