There are many reasons why your dog could be shaking its head, from ear infections to insect bites. While you may feel comfortable taking a wait-and-see approach, note that some conditions will not get better with time. For instance, if your dog has an ear infection, they could lose some or all of their hearing if the infection advances. If your dog has a tick embedded in its ear, you need to remove it.
Here’s what you need to know if your dog continuously shakes its head.
Your Dog Could Have an Ear Infection
Ear infections in dogs are a common problem that can be both painful and frustrating for pet owners. While bacterial infections are the most common, other culprits causing the infection can be yeast, ear mites, and fungus.
One of the most common symptoms is excessive scratching or pawing at the affected ear. You may also notice your dog shaking his head violently or tilting it to one side. In some cases, you may see redness, swelling, or discharge.
Some dog breeds are more likely to develop ear infections because of their ear shape. For instance, floppy-eared breeds, like Cocker Spaniels, are more likely to experience ear infections than pointed-ear dogs, like German Shepherds. That’s because their floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to bacterial or fungal growth. An ear infection is not something that will get better with time. Your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics and a saline solution to flush the ear.
Allergies Could Cause Headshaking and Discomfort
Dogs can also suffer from allergies, just like humans. Allergies can cause itchiness in all parts of your dog’s body, including its ears.
Food allergies are the most common type of allergy in dogs, and they can cause a range of symptoms, from itchiness and rashes to gastrointestinal problems and respiratory distress. The common culprits causing food allergies are beef, eggs, wheat, and dairy. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that chicken is one of the most common allergens for dogs.
Dermatitis is also relatively common in dogs, and they can cause similar symptoms as food allergies. If your dog is scratching more than usual, it may be suffering from skin allergies. While many over-the-counter products claim to provide relief, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian and create a personalized treatment plan.
Ear Mites and Other Parasites Can Cause Headshaking
Dogs can contract external parasites that can cause a variety of symptoms. One such parasite is ear mites, tiny little creatures that live off the wax and oils in an animal’s ear. While they typically aren’t harmful, they can cause a great deal of irritation. Symptoms of ear mites include excessive scratching, brown discharge, and a strong odor. Bathing your dog with a hypoallergenic shampoo can break down the oils that the mites feed from.
By shaking its head, your dog could also be trying to dislodge fleas crawling inside their ear or ticks, which can attach to their skin and remain for anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. By keeping your dog on a flea and tick preventative, you can prevent headshaking and other serious conditions, such as Lyme disease.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears
Prevention is always better than cure. By cleaning your dog’s ears regularly, you can prevent future health issues and ensure their comfort. Here’s a short step-by-step guide:
- Use a cotton ball or soft cloth dampened with a gentle cleansing solution.
- Do not insert the cotton ball into the ear canal. Rather, clean the area around it.
- Avoid using the same cotton ball or cloth for both ears, as this could cause an infection to spread from one ear to the next.
Your dog might keep shaking his head for a variety of reasons, from an itchy ear to a tick bite. If your pup is constantly scratching his ears, it’s important to take him to the vet to get them checked out. Similarly, if your dog is exhibiting any other strange symptoms, bring him in for a check-up to rule out any potential health issues. Regardless of the reason, if your dog is shaking his head excessively, it’s best to speak with your veterinarian to determine the cause and find a solution.
