If a dog is constantly shaking their head, it can quickly become concerning for any dog owner. While the behavior may seem minor at first, it often signals irritation or discomfort that needs attention.
We outline the common reasons a dog may constantly shake their head, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Constantly Shaking Head — Why It Happens
A dog may constantly shake their head due to irritation, infection, or discomfort inside the ears. The most common culprits include ear infections, ear mites, allergies, and trapped debris.
Sometimes, a hematoma develops from repeated shaking, making the problem worse. In more serious cases, underlying skin or neurological issues can also contribute.
Dog Constantly Shaking Head: Common Causes
Ear Infections
Ear infections are one of the leading reasons dogs shake their heads. Bacteria or yeast can thrive in the warm, moist ear canal, especially in breeds with floppy ears.
Pet owners may notice redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge. The constant itching and pressure inside the ear push dogs to shake their heads in an attempt to find relief. Left untreated, ear infections can cause chronic pain and permanent damage.
Read more: Dog Constantly Scratching (Could it be allergies or fleas?)
Ear Mites
Ear mites are tiny parasites that irritate the ear canal and cause extreme itchiness. Dogs infested with mites often shake their heads frequently and scratch at their ears.
A dark, coffee-ground-like discharge may be visible inside the ear. Ear mites are highly contagious and, if untreated, can lead to secondary infections. Quick treatment is essential to stop the cycle of irritation.
Allergies
Allergies, whether to food, pollen, or environmental triggers, can cause inflammation in a dog’s ears. This swelling makes the ears itchy and uncomfortable, leading to constant head shaking.
Dogs with allergies often also lick their paws, develop skin irritation, or suffer recurring ear problems. Chronic allergic reactions make dogs more prone to ear infections, creating a cycle of discomfort.
Foreign Objects or Debris
Grass seeds, dirt, or small insects can sometimes get lodged inside a dog’s ear canal. Even a tiny piece of debris can create intense irritation, prompting a dog to shake their head repeatedly.
In these cases, dogs may also paw at the affected ear or tilt their head to one side. Immediate attention is important, as lodged debris can lead to infection or injury inside the ear canal.
Ear Hematomas
An ear hematoma occurs when a blood vessel inside the ear flap bursts, usually due to excessive shaking or scratching. This leads to swelling and a painful, fluid-filled pocket in the ear.
While the hematoma itself causes discomfort, it is often a secondary problem triggered by an underlying issue such as infection or mites. Without treatment, the ear may heal poorly, leaving permanent deformity.
Neurological or Skin Disorders
In rare cases, constant head shaking may be linked to neurological conditions or skin disorders. Neurological problems may interfere with balance and ear function, while skin diseases can cause widespread itching, including in the ears.
These cases are less common but require veterinary evaluation to identify the underlying issue and begin the right treatment.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Constantly Shaking Its Head
If a dog is shaking their head often, start by gently examining the ears for signs of redness, swelling, debris, or foul odor. Do not insert cotton swabs or objects deep into the ear canal, as this can worsen the problem.
Keep the ears clean and dry, especially after swimming or baths. Specialized ear cleaners recommended by veterinarians can help remove excess wax and debris. If allergies are suspected, try to track possible triggers and limit exposure where possible.
Provide comfort at home by discouraging scratching, as excessive irritation can lead to hematomas. Over-the-counter remedies should be avoided unless approved by a vet, as the wrong treatment can make infections worse.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If the head shaking persists for more than a day or two, veterinary care is recommended. Signs that need prompt attention include persistent odor, visible discharge, swelling, or signs of pain when the ears are touched.
Seek emergency veterinary help if the dog develops a large, swollen ear flap, severe balance problems, or sudden behavioral changes. These may indicate a hematoma, severe infection, or neurological issue that needs immediate care.
Even if symptoms appear mild, repeated head shaking is rarely harmless and should not be ignored.
Read more: Dog Constantly Panting (How to tell normal from concerning)
Key Takeaway
Constant head shaking in dogs is usually a sign of ear irritation, infection, or discomfort. While some causes are minor, others require urgent veterinary treatment to prevent long-term problems.
At-home care can provide comfort, but persistent symptoms should always be checked by a vet. With the right care and treatment, most dogs recover quickly and return to their normal happy selves.