You have received great advice. Get your pup on a good food. I chose Natural Balance and it's great. I also use the CC Systems and their Ice on Ice and it has done wonders for Chewy's coat. Regarding ears, my vet says you can use a solution of vinegar (lil bit) water and a couple of drops of tea tree oil and wipe around with a cotton ball.
to buy CC Systems go to Brooke's site: imapreciouspup.com. She gives YT members a discount. The best way to get started is the day to day shampoo and conditioner and ice on ice. Spray ice on ice onto the pup before the daily brushing. It really is better than anything at PETCO or wherever.
Also, Sam: Where did you hear about the alcohol in the ears? I don't know if it's soo good for their ears.