black lab ear & skin problems

Question
my 2 year lab has had constant ear & skin problems.ears get red and sores (some sores bleed)with brown watery wax in them plus a very bad oder(vet said allergies to food).the skin around his mouth have reddish bumps (vet said acne).his skin in spots gets flacky or some times a rash with hair loss.it has gotten to the point where the family can't enjoy him anymore and the dog has got to be in pain and discomfort.I can't afford to keep taking him back to the vet(I am spending more on his medical bills than all 5 members of my familys medical bills put together) I tried all kinds of dog food except science diet,please help my dog.my vet seems to think its his food!should I try another vet or pills or what?

Answer
Young dogs with skin and ear problems likely have allergies.  In a very young dog, less than 1 year old, we tend to think more of food allergies than pollen/mold/insect allergies. If it is a food allergy, then a 3 month trial with a special type of food called Z/D should tell you.  While on this food, no other types of protein should be fed.  No chewable heartworm pills, no doggie bones.  Nothing!

You might ask the vet if there is a skin infection. If there is then antibiotics may be needed for 3-4 weeks.  In addition, the dog may need a short course of steroids to get his skin quieted down.