What to Do When Your Dog Keeps Shaking His Ears: A Comprehensive Guide

Ear shaking in dogs is a common occurrence, but when it becomes persistent, it’s a clear signal that something isn’t right. While a single shake after a bath is normal, frequent or vigorous ear shaking warrants a closer look and potentially a trip to the veterinarian. Understanding the possible causes and appropriate responses can help you alleviate your dog’s discomfort and prevent more serious complications.

Understanding Why Dogs Shake Their Ears

Dogs shake their ears for a variety of reasons, some benign, others more concerning. It’s crucial to differentiate between normal behavior and a sign of an underlying issue. A quick shake to dislodge water after swimming is perfectly acceptable. However, repeated, intense shaking, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, is a red flag.

Common Causes of Ear Shaking in Dogs

Several factors can contribute to excessive ear shaking in dogs. These include:

Ear Infections: This is perhaps the most common culprit. Bacterial, fungal (yeast), or mite infestations can irritate the ear canal, leading to inflammation and discomfort. This discomfort then prompts the dog to shake his head vigorously.
Ear Mites: These tiny parasites are highly contagious and frequently affect puppies and younger dogs. They cause intense itching and inflammation, leading to persistent ear shaking and scratching.
Foreign Objects: Grass seeds, dirt, and other debris can become lodged in the ear canal, causing irritation and prompting your dog to shake his head to try and dislodge the object.
Allergies: Food or environmental allergies can manifest as skin irritation, including inflammation in the ears. This can lead to secondary ear infections and, subsequently, ear shaking.
Hematoma: A hematoma, or blood blister, can form in the ear flap (pinna) due to vigorous shaking or scratching. This is caused by the rupture of blood vessels in the ear flap.
Moisture: Excessive moisture in the ear canal creates a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, increasing the risk of infection and the urge to shake the ears.
Growths/Polyps: In rare cases, growths or polyps in the ear canal can cause irritation and discomfort.

Recognizing the Accompanying Symptoms

Pay close attention to any other symptoms accompanying the ear shaking. These signs can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause.

Scratching: Excessive scratching at the ears or rubbing them against furniture or the ground.
Head Tilting: Consistently tilting the head to one side.
Redness and Inflammation: Visibly red or swollen ear canals or ear flaps.
Discharge: Any discharge from the ear, whether it’s brown, black, yellow, or contains blood.
Odor: An unusual or foul odor emanating from the ears.
Pain: Sensitivity or pain when you touch or examine the ears.
Hearing Loss: Difficulty hearing or responding to commands.
Behavioral Changes: Irritability, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

How to Inspect Your Dog’s Ears

A regular ear inspection is vital for maintaining your dog’s ear health and catching problems early.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:

Good Lighting: Ensure you have adequate lighting to clearly see inside the ear canal. A flashlight or headlamp can be helpful.
Cotton Balls or Gauze Pads: For gently cleaning the outer ear.
Ear Cleaning Solution: Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution specifically formulated for dogs.
Treats: To reward your dog and make the experience more positive.

The Inspection Process

Start by gently lifting the ear flap and visually inspecting the ear canal. Look for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or foreign objects.
Sniff the ear. A healthy ear should have no odor. A foul or yeasty smell is a strong indicator of infection.
Using a cotton ball or gauze pad moistened with ear cleaning solution, gently wipe the outer ear and the inside of the ear flap. Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.
Observe your dog’s reaction during the inspection. If he flinches, yelps, or pulls away, it could indicate pain or discomfort.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice any of the following during your ear inspection, consult your veterinarian immediately:

Copious Discharge: Large amounts of discharge, especially if it’s discolored or has a foul odor.
Visible Foreign Object: If you see a foreign object lodged deep in the ear canal and you are unable to remove it safely.
Signs of Pain: If your dog shows signs of pain or discomfort when you touch or examine his ears.
Persistent Symptoms: If ear shaking, scratching, or head tilting persists for more than a day or two.
Other Symptoms: If accompanied by fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinarian is the best resource for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of your dog’s ear shaking.

Diagnostic Procedures

Your veterinarian may perform several diagnostic procedures to determine the cause of the problem:

Otoscopic Examination: Using an otoscope to visually examine the ear canal and eardrum.
Cytology: Collecting a sample of ear discharge to examine under a microscope to identify bacteria, yeast, or mites.
Ear Culture: Sending a sample of ear discharge to a laboratory to identify the specific type of bacteria or yeast causing the infection.
Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, allergy testing may be recommended.
Imaging: In rare cases, X-rays or CT scans may be necessary to rule out other underlying conditions.

Treatment Options

The treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the ear shaking. Common treatment options include:

Medications: Antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-inflammatory medications to treat infections and reduce inflammation.
Ear Cleaning: Professional ear cleaning to remove debris and discharge.
Topical Treatments: Medicated ear drops to treat infections and inflammation.
Parasite Control: Medications to eliminate ear mites.
Allergy Management: Dietary changes, medications, or immunotherapy to manage allergies.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove growths or polyps.
Hematoma Treatment: Draining the hematoma and applying pressure bandages, or surgical correction.

Home Care and Prevention

While veterinary treatment is crucial, there are several steps you can take at home to support your dog’s ear health and prevent future problems.

Regular Ear Cleaning

Frequency: Clean your dog’s ears regularly, typically once or twice a month, or as recommended by your veterinarian.
Technique: Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and gently clean the outer ear and the inside of the ear flap. Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.
Drying: After cleaning, thoroughly dry the ears to prevent moisture buildup.

Diet and Allergy Management

High-Quality Diet: Feed your dog a high-quality diet to support overall health and immune function.
Allergy Management: If your dog has allergies, work with your veterinarian to identify and manage the allergens.

Environmental Control

Dry Ears After Swimming: After swimming or bathing, thoroughly dry your dog’s ears to prevent moisture buildup.
Avoid Irritants: Avoid exposing your dog to potential irritants, such as smoke, dust, and pollen.

Regular Veterinary Checkups

Annual Exams: Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor your dog’s overall health and catch potential problems early.
Ear Exams: During checkups, ask your veterinarian to examine your dog’s ears and provide guidance on ear care.

Additional Tips

If your dog has long, floppy ears, trim the hair around the ear canal to improve air circulation.
Avoid using cotton swabs to clean your dog’s ears, as they can push debris further into the ear canal.
Be gentle when cleaning your dog’s ears to avoid causing irritation or pain.
Monitor your dog’s behavior for any signs of ear problems and seek veterinary attention promptly if you notice anything concerning.

Persistent ear shaking in dogs is a sign of discomfort and a potential underlying health problem. By understanding the possible causes, recognizing the accompanying symptoms, and seeking prompt veterinary care, you can help your dog find relief and maintain optimal ear health. Regular ear inspections, proper cleaning techniques, and proactive preventative measures can also play a crucial role in keeping your dog’s ears healthy and happy. Ignoring the problem can lead to chronic ear infections, hearing loss, and other complications. Therefore, being vigilant and proactive is key to ensuring your dog’s well-being.

Why is my dog shaking his head and ears so much?

Persistent head shaking and ear scratching are common signs that your dog is experiencing discomfort in their ears. This behavior is often a result of irritation or inflammation within the ear canal, prompting your dog to attempt to relieve the sensation. While a simple itch or foreign object can cause temporary shaking, frequent or prolonged shaking indicates a more serious underlying issue that requires attention.

The most common causes include ear infections, which can be bacterial, fungal (yeast), or a combination of both. Ear mites are another frequent culprit, particularly in puppies and outdoor dogs. Less common causes include allergies, foreign bodies (like grass seeds), or even polyps or tumors in the ear canal. Determining the exact cause requires veterinary examination and diagnostics.

What are the signs of an ear infection in dogs besides head shaking?

Beyond excessive head shaking, several other symptoms can indicate an ear infection. These often include frequent ear scratching, which can lead to raw or irritated skin around the ear. You might also notice redness, swelling, or discharge coming from the ear, which can vary in color and consistency depending on the type of infection.

Other telltale signs include a foul odor emanating from the ear, rubbing the ear against furniture or the ground, and tilting the head to one side. In severe cases, dogs may exhibit signs of pain when their ears are touched, or they may experience a loss of balance or coordination, indicating the infection has spread to the inner ear. If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

How are ear infections in dogs diagnosed?

A veterinary examination is essential for diagnosing ear infections. The vet will use an otoscope, a specialized instrument with a light and magnifying lens, to visually inspect the ear canal for signs of inflammation, discharge, or foreign objects. This visual inspection can often provide initial clues about the cause of the problem.

In most cases, the vet will also collect a sample of the ear discharge for microscopic examination. This involves using a cotton swab to gently collect a sample from the ear canal and then examining it under a microscope to identify the presence of bacteria, yeast, or ear mites. The results of this microscopic examination, along with the visual inspection, will help the vet determine the appropriate treatment plan for your dog’s specific condition.

What is the best way to clean my dog’s ears?

Ear cleaning should only be performed when necessary and as directed by your veterinarian. Over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal and actually increase the risk of infection. If your vet recommends cleaning, use a veterinary-approved ear cleaning solution specifically formulated for dogs.

Gently fill the ear canal with the cleaning solution, then massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds to loosen any debris. Allow your dog to shake his head, which will help dislodge the debris. Finally, use a cotton ball or gauze pad to wipe away any visible discharge from the outer ear canal. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal, as they can push debris further in and potentially damage the eardrum.

Can I treat my dog’s ear infection at home?

While some home remedies may provide temporary relief, it’s generally not advisable to treat a suspected ear infection at home without veterinary guidance. Many ear infections require prescription medications, such as antibiotics or antifungals, to effectively eliminate the underlying cause. Attempting to self-treat can mask the symptoms, delay proper treatment, and potentially worsen the infection.

Furthermore, some over-the-counter ear medications may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs, especially if the eardrum is damaged. Without a proper diagnosis from a veterinarian, you could be using the wrong medication or treatment approach, which could lead to complications and prolong your dog’s suffering. Always consult with your vet before administering any medication or treatment to your dog’s ears.

How can I prevent ear infections in my dog?

Preventing ear infections involves regular ear care and addressing any underlying conditions that may contribute to their development. Routinely inspect your dog’s ears for any signs of redness, discharge, or odor. If your dog is prone to ear infections, your vet may recommend regular ear cleaning with a veterinary-approved solution to help remove excess wax and debris.

After bathing or swimming, be sure to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears to prevent moisture buildup, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. If your dog has allergies, work with your vet to manage them effectively, as allergies can often lead to secondary ear infections. Finally, avoid using cotton swabs inside the ear canal, as this can push debris further in and irritate the ear.

Are some dog breeds more prone to ear infections than others?

Yes, certain dog breeds are more susceptible to ear infections due to their ear anatomy. Dogs with long, floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Labrador Retrievers, are particularly prone because their ears trap moisture and reduce air circulation, creating a favorable environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.

Breeds with narrow ear canals or excessive hair growth in their ears, such as Poodles and Shih Tzus, are also at increased risk. The narrow canals can make it difficult for debris to clear naturally, and the hair can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Regular ear cleaning and grooming can help mitigate these risks in predisposed breeds.