Have you ever wondered why dogs shake their head? It’s a pretty common behavior, and sometimes it’s totally normal. But if your dog is shaking their head a lot, or really violently, it could be a sign that something’s wrong.
Understanding why dogs shake their head is important for pet owners, because it can help you spot potential health problems early.
Occasional head shaking is usually nothing to worry about, but persistent or violent shaking should be checked out by a vet. It could point to ear infections, allergies, or even more serious issues.
COMMON REASONS FOR DOG HEAD SHAKING
There are many reasons why your dog might be shaking their head. Here are a few of the most common:
Ear Infections
Ear infections are a frequent cause of head shaking in dogs. They can be caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can become serious, so it’s important to get it checked out by your vet.
If your dog has an ear infection, you’ll likely notice other symptoms besides head shaking, such as:
- Scratching at the ear
- Redness inside the ear
- Discharge from the ear
- An odor coming from the ear
Ear Mites
Ear mites are tiny, highly contagious parasites that can cause irritation and inflammation in the ear canal, which in turn leads to head shaking. Ear mites are more common in puppies and younger dogs.
Your vet can usually diagnose ear mites by looking at a sample of ear debris under a microscope.
Allergies
Just like people, dogs can have allergies, both environmental and food-related. Allergies can cause itchy ears, which will likely lead to head shaking.
If your dog’s head shaking is allergy-related, you may also notice other symptoms like skin irritation, itching all over their body, and hair loss.
Food allergies can be diagnosed through a specialized diet trial, which your veterinarian can help you with.
Environmental factors and water in the ears
If your dog has been swimming or just got out of the bath, water trapped in the ear canal is a likely culprit for the head shaking. The moisture creates a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow, which can lead to an ear infection. And trust me, those are no fun for your furry friend.
If your dog is a water lover, you can prevent water from getting into their ears by using cotton balls or ear bands before they take a dip. There are also ear-drying solutions you can use after water exposure to help keep those canals nice and dry.
Of course, water isn’t the only thing that can get stuck in your dog’s ears. Foreign objects like grass seeds or small bits of debris can also find their way in there, causing irritation and prompting the head-shaking response. If you suspect a foreign object, it’s best to let your vet remove it safely.
When head shaking is a cause for concern
Occasional head shaking is usually nothing to worry about, but sometimes head shaking can be a sign of an underlying problem. Here’s when you should be concerned:
Persistent or violent head shaking
If your dog is shaking its head frequently or violently, it’s time to visit the vet. It’s a good idea to keep track of how often you see your dog shaking its head, and how hard they’re shaking, to share with your veterinarian.
Accompanying symptoms
Head shaking accompanied by other symptoms is another sign that something’s wrong. Redness, swelling, discharge, a bad smell, scratching at the ears, or signs of pain are all reasons to take your dog to the vet.
Potential complications
If your dog shakes its head hard enough, it can cause broken blood vessels in the ear flap. These are called aural hematomas. Aural hematomas often require surgery to repair, so it’s important to prevent them if possible.
When head shaking is a sign of something serious
Sometimes, head shaking can point to a bigger problem. In rare cases, it can signal a neurological disorder. It can also be a symptom of inflammatory diseases like hypothyroidism.
That’s why it’s so important to get your dog checked out by a vet. They can rule out any serious underlying issues. If it’s “just” water in the ears, great! But it’s always better to be safe and make sure there isn’t something else going on.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is it normal for a dog to shake its head?
Occasional head shaking in dogs is perfectly normal. It’s often just a way for them to dislodge water after a bath, get rid of a bothersome leaf, or relieve a slight itch. Think of it like us adjusting our hair – a few shakes here and there aren’t usually a cause for concern. However, if the head shaking becomes frequent, intense, or is accompanied by other symptoms, then it’s time to investigate further.
Why does my dog keep shaking her head like her ears are bothering her?
Persistent head shaking, especially when coupled with scratching at the ears, often indicates an underlying ear problem. The most common culprit is an ear infection, caused by bacteria, yeast, or both. Other possibilities include ear mites, foreign objects lodged in the ear canal (like grass seeds), or even allergies. In some cases, head shaking can also be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a polyp or tumor in the ear. If your dog is constantly shaking her head and showing signs of ear discomfort, it’s crucial to get her checked out by a vet to determine the cause and get her the appropriate treatment.
Closing Thoughts
As we’ve seen, dogs shake their heads for a whole bunch of reasons, from the relatively minor — like trying to dislodge a bit of water from their ears — to more serious health problems.
Because head shaking can be a sign that something’s not quite right, early detection and treatment are key. The sooner you find out what’s causing the behavior, the sooner you can help your dog feel better.
One of the best ways to stay on top of your dog’s ear health and overall well-being is to schedule regular check-ups with your vet. This will help you catch any potential issues early and address them proactively.