Why Is My Dog Shaking Its Head and Having Diarrhea?

1. Ear Infections and Gut Imbalance

One common cause of excessive head shaking in dogs is an ear infection.

Bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections in the ear can cause intense itchiness and discomfort, leading your dog to shake its head repeatedly.

Sometimes, infections in the ear can coincide with digestive issues, especially if the infection stems from systemic problems like allergies.

Ear infections might indirectly cause gut imbalance if the dog’s immune system is compromised, making them susceptible to intestinal disturbances and diarrhea in dogs.

2. Allergies

Dogs, like humans, can have allergies to food, environmental factors like pollen, or even grooming products. Allergic reactions often cause multiple symptoms simultaneously, such as:

• Diarrhea

• Itchy skin

• Head shaking

• Ear redness or discharge

If you notice your dog shaking head and has diarrhea after eating, it could point towards a food allergy or intolerance.

3. Parasites and Infections

Internal parasites such as Giardia or hookworms often cause diarrhea. Some infections can also cause body discomfort, resulting in abnormal behavior like trembling or head shaking.

While parasites mainly target the intestines, the general discomfort they cause can affect your dog’s behavior in surprising ways, including head shaking.

4. Neurological Problems

In rarer cases, frequent head shaking could indicate neurological issues.

Dogs with conditions affecting their nervous system might display shaking, trembling, or diarrhea if the issue also impacts the gut-brain axis.

If your dog shows coordination issues, head tilting, severe trembling, or persistent diarrhea, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Related: Dog diarrhea and shaking (Explained)

Do Dogs Tremble When They Are Sick?

Yes, dogs can tremble when they are sick. Shaking or trembling is a non-specific symptom that can be linked to:

• Fever

• Pain

• Nausea

• Anxiety

• Weakness

If your dog has diarrhea and is shaking all over, it could mean they are feeling very unwell or are experiencing significant discomfort.

Trembling can occur with illnesses ranging from minor infections to serious diseases like parvovirus or pancreatitis.

Pay close attention to additional signs such as vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, or crying when touched, as these indicate the need for urgent veterinary care.

What To Do If Your Dog Has Diarrhea and Is Shaking Its Head

When your dog has diarrhea and shakes its head constantly, follow these steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms

Keep a diary of your dog’s symptoms:

• Frequency and texture of diarrhea

• Intensity and duration of head shaking

• Other signs like vomiting, fever, lethargy, or ear discharge

This information will be very helpful for your vet.

2. Check Ears

Look inside your dog’s ears if they allow you. Signs of infection include:

• Redness

• Swelling

• Foul odor

• Yellow or brown discharge

If you notice any of these, your dog likely has an ear infection requiring medical treatment.

3. Hydrate Your Dog

Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, which is very dangerous, especially in puppies and senior dogs.

Ensure fresh, clean water is always available. You might also consider electrolyte solutions designed for pets.

4. Diet Adjustment

Feed a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice (no seasoning) to help soothe your dog’s stomach.

If diarrhea persists beyond 24 hours, stop home treatments and seek veterinary advice.

5. Veterinary Visit

Persistent diarrhea and head shaking are signs you shouldn’t ignore. A vet will likely:

• Perform a fecal exam

• Check for ear infections

• Run blood tests

• Assess for allergies or parasites

Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent a small issue from becoming a life-threatening one.

Prevention Tips for Dog Diarrhea and Head Shaking

Preventing these uncomfortable symptoms often involves proactive pet care:

• Regular Ear Cleaning: Use vet-approved solutions to clean your dog’s ears weekly.

• Proper Diet: Feed high-quality dog food free of common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

• Parasite Control: Use monthly preventatives for worms, fleas, and ticks.

• Vaccinations: Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date to prevent serious infections.

• Routine Vet Checkups: Regular veterinary visits help catch early signs of illness before symptoms escalate.

When to Worry About Dog Diarrhea and Head Shaking

Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these warning signs:

• Blood in diarrhea

• Vomiting along with diarrhea

• Severe weakness or inability to stand

• Constant crying or signs of severe pain

• Head tilting or walking in circles

• Diarrhea lasting longer than 48 hours

Early intervention can often prevent emergency situations.

Conclusion

While occasional diarrhea or minor head shaking might not be cause for immediate alarm, when these symptoms occur together, they could indicate an underlying problem needing prompt attention. Whether it’s due to an infection, allergies, parasites, or more serious illnesses, it’s vital to observe your dog closely and act swiftly if symptoms persist.

Remember, dogs can tremble when they are sick, and shaking combined with digestive upset should never be ignored. Always trust your instincts — you know your dog better than anyone.

By staying informed and proactive, you can keep your four-legged companion healthy, comfortable, and happy for years to come.