Our Tibetan terrier first went to the vets at about 4 months as he was shaking his head and scratching his ear. Vet looked inside, said it was very sore, puppy howled in pain; the vet said he couldn't see if anything was inside but because of the puppy being in so much distress he'd sedate him, check inside and clean the ears. Nothing was found, we had drops to give and it cleared up.
In the last five months we'd had two more incidents of excessive scratching, more ear drops and a puppy who will not tolerate anyone going near his ears without him getting distressed.
We now have another incidence of very excessive scratching, some crying at night so back to the vet, different vet, different approach and this vet was able to calm him enough to look inside with just his hands but couldn't risk putting an implement in the ear as he was too distressed and fighting us.
More sedation, nothing found but the dog is still scratching.
I've been putting aloe Vera gel around the inside of the ear.
Suggestions from here have been coconut oil and apple cider vinegar.
Vet suggested it might be habitual or perhaps we need a referral. (I didn't think to ask to who 
)
At the time of the first incidence, we were still undecided what type of pet insurance to take out. We do now have insurance but of course we are not covered for ear issues or skin conditions for 2 years so if we can self treat that would be preferable.
Our current vet us lovely but he is very young so I'm wondering if someone on here with more experience might be able to make a suggestion.
In between the vet appointments, I've spent time daily building up his acceptance of his ears being touched and I can now wipe them with a cloth and just about get drops in but he does still get worked up.
They don't look red inside to me.
I'd really appreciate any advice.
TIA