Sometimes, as doggy parents, it can seem like our fur baby’s health issues have come from nowhere. For instance, they can seem to go from being completely fine one moment, to scratching and shaking their head furiously the next. So, what does it mean if your dog keeps shaking their head? And what other symptoms should you look out for?
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What could it mean if your dog keeps shaking their head?
Dogs often shake their heads because their ears are itchy or sore. This could be because they have an ear infection, skin allergies, or even something stuck in their ear.
Ear infections
Ear infections are particularly common in dogs who swim, or those who have hairy or dangly ears. This is because after swimming, water can build up in the ear canal creating a moist environment for bacteria to grow. Pendulous ears and hair within the ear canal will often prevent airflow and create a build-up of wax and debris, again allowing bacteria to grow.
Allergies
If your dog has skin allergies, you might notice that they get red, itchy rashes around their armpits, groin, paws, or face. But you might not be aware that the skin lining the ear canal can also be affected, so it’s common to also see itchy, red, and sore ears in dogs with allergies. Inflamed ears from an allergy can quickly progress to an ear infection if the underlying allergy isn’t treated.
If your dog has two or more ear infections, your vet might discuss allergies with you. Allergies are frustrating to treat, but when they’re controlled your dog will have fewer ear infections, making them a lot more comfortable!
Foreign bodies
It’s not uncommon for dogs to get foreign objects stuck in their ears. Grass seeds are a common example of an ear foreign body, but any small items or pieces of vegetation are possible have the potential to get stuck in the ear canal, especially in dogs who like to run through the undergrowth. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to getting foreign bodies in their ears, but any dog can be affected.
If your dog seems comfortable but the ear looks dirty or waxy, you can try using a dog ear cleaning product to see if that helps.
What are the other symptoms of an ear infection?
If your dog has an ear infection, there are some other symptoms you might notice aside from them shaking their heads. Firstly, they might show signs of pain if you try to touch their ear, and they may yelp when they scratch their ear or shake their head. If they do let you have a look at their ears, you might notice that one, or both, are red or swollen. There might also be a foul smell from the ear, or a visible discharge which could be brown or yellow in color.
If your dog’s ear infection has penetrated a little deeper into the ear canal, you might notice them tilting their head to one side. They might also go off their food, have a fever, or act lethargic. Very occasionally the infection could start to affect their balance and coordination, and their eyes may seem to flicker side to side.
How can you help if your dog keeps shaking their head?
If your dog suddenly starts seeming bothered by their ears, you’ll want to help them get some relief so that you can both get some rest! If you are able to have a look at the ear, you might find the ear is quite waxy. You can try cleaning the ear with a liquid ear cleaner designed for dogs. Cleaning the ear may help to soothe any irritation, but only if there is no redness or signs of infection.
Ear infections tend to be really painful. Therefore, if your dog is shaking their head or scratching their ears, it’s best to get them checked over by a veterinarian.
When to see a veterinarian
Because of the risk of a foreign object in the ear, if your dog suddenly becomes furiously bothered by their ear during or straight after a walk you should get them checked over by a veterinarian right away. Similarly, if they are showing symptoms of being unwell, or if they are off-balance or have a head tilt, they will need a veterinary assessment sooner rather than later. On the other hand, if the ear seems comfortable but is just a bit waxy, you can try using a dog ear cleaner. However, if you don’t see improvement within 48 hours, or if their symptoms worsen, you should call our veterinary team.
Our veterinary team will be able to have a look inside your dog’s ear canals using a special scope. This will allow them to check the ear drum for damage and check for any debris, ear mites or foreign material. If they suspect an ear infection, they may take a swab sample to help them find the right treatment to get your pooch on the mend as quickly as possible.
So, should you be worried if your dog keeps shaking their head?
Above all else, ear infections tend to be really painful. Therefore, if your dog is shaking their head or scratching their ears, it’s best to get them checked over by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to check for any foreign material in the ear and choose the right medication to get your canine companion on the road to recovery as soon as possible.
FAQ
If your dog keeps shaking their head, they might have an ear infection or an allergy. They could even have something stuck in their ear. If your dog seems painful or unwell, you should contact our veterinary team. If they seem comfortable but the ear looks dirty or waxy, you can try using a dog ear cleaning product to see if that helps. If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem though, they might need veterinary treatment.
Dogs often shake their head or scratch their ears if they have an ear infection. However, if your dog is prone to skin allergies, this can also cause their ears to be itchy or sore. The best way to find out what is causing the head shaking and get them feeling comfortable again is to speak to your veterinary clinic to arrange an appointment.
Dr. Hannah Godfrey MRCVS graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011. Although she initially worked in mixed practice treating all species, she found a love for small animal work and has worked exclusively with dogs and cats since 2014. She lives in Wales with her partner, son, and two cats (named Poppy and Ashton Kutcher), and writes comedy fiction in her spare time.
