Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking His Head

If you're a dog owner, you've probably noticed your furry friend vigorously shaking their head from time to time. Head shaking can be perfectly normal behavior for dogs, if it only happens on occasion. But excessive or persistent shaking could indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. In this article, we'll delve into the common reasons behind a dog's head shaking and provide insights into when you should be concerned.

When Should I Worry About My Dog Shaking His Head?

If your dog is shaking their head occasionally, it might not be a cause for immediate concern. Dogs shake their heads for various reasons, such as to dry off after a bath, to get rid of water in their ears, or even just as a normal behavior. However, if you notice your dog shaking their head excessively or in a persistent manner, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that requires attention.

Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking His Head?

Here are some situations when you should start to worry and consider seeking veterinary care:

1. Yeast & Bacterial Infections in the Ear

Yeast and bacterial infections in the ear are common medical conditions that can cause discomfort and sometimes pain. These infections can affect the outer ear (otitis externa) or the middle ear (otitis media).

Yeast Infections (Fungal Otitis Externa)

Yeast infections in the ear, also known as fungal otitis externa or otomycosis, occur when fungal organisms, usually Candida species or Aspergillus, grow and multiply in the external ear canal. Some common symptoms of yeast infections in the ear include:

• Itching and irritation in the ear canal
• Redness and swelling of the ear canal
• Discharge that might be white, yellow, or brown in color
• Mild to moderate discomfort or pain
• Hearing loss, if the ear canal is significantly blocked

Bacterial Otitis Externa (External Ear Infections)

This type of infection, commonly referred to as "swimmer's ear," occurs when bacteria, often Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa, enter the ear canal through water exposure or minor skin injuries. Symptoms include:

• Severe itching and discomfort.
• Pain that worsens when the earlobe or tragus is pulled.
• Redness, swelling, and inflammation in the ear canal.
• Clear or slightly yellow discharge that might have an unpleasant odor.

Bacterial Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infections)

This type of infection usually occurs deeper within the ear, in the middle ear space behind the eardrum. Bacterial otitis media can be secondary to upper respiratory infections. Symptoms include:

• Ear pain or aching.
• Fluid buildup behind the eardrum, leading to hearing loss.
• Fever.
• Irritability.

Treatment

Both yeast and bacterial ear infections require medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may involve:

• Eardrops containing antifungal agents for yeast infections or antibiotics for bacterial infections.
• Avoiding water exposure for a certain period if diagnosed with a fungal infection.
• Keeping the ear clean and dry.
• In severe cases, your healthcare provider might need to clean the ear canal to remove debris or discharge that's obstructing the canal.

2. Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that can take up residence in a dog's ear canal, causing intense itching and irritation. Dogs affected by ear mites often shake their heads vigorously in an attempt to relieve the discomfort. If your dog's head shaking is accompanied by frequent scratching around the ears and dark, crumbly discharge from the ears, ear mites could be the issue. 

If you suspect your dog has ear mites, it's important to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment. A vet will examine the dog's ears using an otoscope to confirm the presence of mites or any other underlying ear issues. Treatment often involves cleaning the ears, prescribing appropriate medication (usually in the form of ear drops), and addressing any secondary infections that might have developed due to the mites' presence.

3. Allergies

Dogs, like humans, can develop allergies to various environmental factors, including pollen, dust mites, and certain foods. Allergic reactions can lead to itchiness, skin irritation, and ear discomfort, prompting dogs to shake their heads as a response to the discomfort. 
Common symptoms of dog ear allergies may include:

• Ear Itching
• Redness and Inflammation
• Discharge
• Odor
• Shaking Head
• Pain
• Changes in Behavior

A veterinarian can properly diagnose the issue, determine the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include cleaning the ears, administering medication (such as anti-inflammatory drugs or antihistamines), and providing guidance on managing the allergies.

Preventing exposure to allergens that trigger reactions can help manage ear allergies in dogs. This might involve keeping the dog's living environment clean, avoiding known allergens, and maintaining good ear hygiene. Regular grooming and cleaning of your dog's ears can also contribute to preventing and managing ear issues.

4. Aural Haematoma (blood blister inside an earflap) 

An aural hematoma, often referred to as a "blood blister inside an earflap," is a condition that can affect dogs. It's characterized by the accumulation of blood or serum between the layers of the earflap (pinna). This condition usually occurs as a result of trauma, such as shaking the head vigorously, scratching at the ears, or ear infections. The forceful actions can cause blood vessels to rupture, leading to the accumulation of blood in the space between the skin and cartilage of the ear.

Common signs of an aural hematoma in dogs include:

• Swelling
• Pain and Discomfort
• Drooping Ear
• Warmth and Redness
• Hearing Impairment

Aural hematomas are typically diagnosed through a physical examination by a veterinarian. Treatment options vary and can include:

• Aspiration: In some cases, your vet might choose to drain the accumulated blood or fluid using a syringe. However, this method has a higher chance of recurrence since it doesn't address the underlying cause.
• Surgery: Surgical intervention is often recommended to prevent recurrence. The veterinarian will make an incision on the inside of the ear to remove the blood clot and then suture the layers of the earflap together to promote healing.
• Medical Management: Treating the underlying cause of the head shaking or ear scratching is important to prevent future hematomas. This might involve addressing ear infections, allergies, or other issues that could lead to trauma.
• Elizabethan Collar: To prevent the dog from scratching or shaking its head during the healing process, an Elizabethan collar (cone collar) might be necessary.

• Pain Management and Antibiotics: Pain relief and antibiotics might be prescribed to manage discomfort and prevent infection.

5. Irritant trapped in ear such as grass seeds, water or insects

If you believe there is an irritant trapped in your ear, it's important to take appropriate action. If the irritant is something like a grass seed, water, or an insect, you might experience discomfort, pain, or even an infection if not addressed properly. Here are some general steps you could consider, but please consult a medical professional for advice specific to your situation:

• Stay Calm: It's important not to panic. Try to remain calm while dealing with the situation.
• Do Not Insert Objects: Avoid inserting anything into your ear, such as cotton swabs or tweezers. This can push the irritant further in or damage your ear.
• Tilt and Shake: Gently tilt your head to the side of the affected ear and try to shake it gently. This might help the irritant move out naturally. Be cautious not to shake your head too vigorously.
• Gravity: Lie down on the side with the affected ear facing downward. This can encourage the irritant to fall out.
• Rinse with Warm Water: If you suspect there's an insect or debris, you could try using a bulb syringe filled with warm water. Gently direct a stream of water into your ear canal to try and flush out the irritant. Make sure the water is not too hot or too forceful.
• Seek Medical Attention: If these methods don't work or if you experience worsening pain, discomfort, bleeding, or signs of infection (such as discharge), it's important to seek medical attention. A doctor or a specialist, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, will be able to examine your ear and provide proper treatment.

6. Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and other animals like foxes, raccoons, and ferrets. It primarily targets the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. One of the neurological symptoms associated with canine distemper is known as "choreoathetosis," which involves involuntary twitching, spasms, and shaking of various body parts, including the head. This can result in the dog shaking its head uncontrollably. Other neurological signs of distemper might include:

• muscle twitches
• seizures
• tremors
• uncoordinated movements

It's important to note that canine distemper is a serious disease and can be fatal, especially if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Vaccination is the best way to prevent this virus, and if you suspect that your dog might have distemper, you should consult a veterinarian as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.

7. Cerebellar Hypoplasia

Dogs with cerebellar hypoplasia often display characteristic symptoms such as

• shaky head movements
• intention tremors (shaking when attempting to perform a specific action)
• wobbly walking
• difficulties with balance

The severity of the symptoms can vary from mild to more severe cases, but involuntary head shaking is a common manifestation due to the cerebellum's role in controlling fine motor movements.

It's important to note that cerebellar hypoplasia is typically a congenital condition, meaning that dogs are born with it. It can be caused by various factors such as infections during pregnancy, genetic abnormalities, exposure to toxins, or malnutrition.

Some breeds are more commonly associated with the condition due to genetic predisposition. Some of the main breeds that are known to have a higher incidence of cerebellar hypoplasia include:

• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Border Collie
• Boxer
• Boston Terrier
• Chow Chow
• Cocker Spaniel
• English Bulldog
• Great Dane
• Italian Greyhound
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Poodle
• Samoyed
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier

FAQs

Will the Head Shake Resolve by Itself Over Time?

Occasionally, dogs may shake their heads due to behavioral reasons, such as excitement or a learned response to certain stimuli. In these cases, the behavior might resolve on its own if the trigger is removed or if the dog learns to manage their excitement better.

It's important to note that persistent head shaking, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like ear odor, discharge, redness, or persistent discomfort, should be evaluated by a veterinarian. A veterinarian can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. 

What If My Dog Keeps Shaking His Head But His Ears Are Clean?

It's not always the presence of wax buildup or drainage that causes problems. Even if the ears are clean, your dog may be shaking his head and here are some possible reasons why:

• Internal ear infections
• Pain or Discomfort
• Behavioral Issues
• Neurological Issues

Conclusion

Head shaking is a normal behavior in dogs, but excessive or prolonged shaking could signal an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. By paying close attention to your dog's behavior, checking their ears regularly, and seeking veterinary advice when necessary, you can help ensure your furry companion's health and well-being.