Dangerous Signs: Why Dogs Shake Heads & Ear Tips!

If you notice your dog frequently shaking its head and flicking its ears, or walking with a tilted head, don't assume it's just trying to be cute. These behaviors can be warning signs of ear canal diseases that pose serious risks!

Next, we'll delve into several causes of ear itching and discomfort in dogs, along with their solutions, hoping to offer some valuable advice to all pet owners.

1. Ear Mites

Ear mites are a common parasitic pest found in a dog's ear canal, leading to itching and swelling, which can trigger head shaking. These mites are highly contagious, and if left untreated, they can spread to other cats or dogs in your home and may even cause outer and middle ear infections.

2. Malassezia Infection

Malassezia is a type of lipophilic yeast, a type of fungus. This can cause your dog's ears to itch, resulting in reddishbrown or black greasy discharge with a foul smell.

3. Ear Inflammation

Ear inflammation is one of the most common reasons for a dog to shake its head. When a dog's ears become infected and inflamed, there's often a large amount of inflammatory discharge, making the dog uncomfortable and prompting frequent head shaking. If not treated promptly, ear inflammation can lead to hearing loss and even more severe conditions.

4. Allergic Reactions

Some dogs may be allergic to certain substances, such as ingredients in food, pollen, or dust mites. When allergens come into contact with the inner ear, they can cause itching, leading to persistent head shaking.

5. Injuries or Foreign Objects

While outdoors, dogs might accidentally get foreign objects in their ears or sustain injuries due to fights with other animals, which can lead to itching, pain, or other discomforts.

How to Determine If Your Dog's Head Shaking Is Normal?

1. Observe the Frequency

Normally, dogs shake their heads infrequently. If you notice your dog shaking its head and flicking its ears more often, or if it appears anxious or restless, it's time to take notice.

2. Inspect the Ears

Regularly check your dog's ears for signs of redness, excessive discharge, strong odor, skin damage, or hair loss around the ears. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary care.

Initial Improvement Measures

Elizabethan Collar: Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from continuing to shake its head, which can lead to further injury and infection.

Ear Mite Treatment: If ear mites are suspected, promptly treat your dog with appropriate deworming medication. Clean the ear canals with ear cleaning solution and apply a local ointment like Xylamycin (a compound of nystatin and griseofulvin) topically.

Ear Inflammation Treatment: If ear inflammation is suspected, clean the ears daily and apply a small amount of Eardrops (fluoroquinolone and metronidazole ear drops) while also administering oral antibiotics to control the infection.

Allergen Avoidance: Keep your environment clean and avoid exposing your dog to potential allergens.

Seek Veterinary Care: If home remedies do not alleviate your dog's symptoms after a week, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Remember, your furry friend's health is paramount. Always prioritize their wellbeing and consult with a professional when in doubt.