been there! when i had Newfoundlands around 10 yrs ago my male had a constant problem. After years of going to our local vet we finally ended up bringing him to Tufts which is a local teaching Animal Hospital. They totally cleaned out his ears (expensive visit) He still ended up always have a slight amount of gunk in his ears, but i am sure he felt a whole lots better! Its just one of those breed problems i think. :-( LOVE the dogs! They have the best personalities. I just wish it wasnt such a task to groom them.