When a dog is panting heavily and shaking their head, it often signals discomfort or an underlying health issue. While panting is a normal cooling mechanism, excessive panting paired with persistent head shaking usually suggests something more serious.
We outline the common causes of a dog panting heavily and shaking their head, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting Heavily and Shaking Head — Why It Happens
When a dog is panting heavily and shaking its head, it often indicates discomfort, stress, or pain—especially related to the ears or head. Ear infections are a common cause, leading to head shaking due to itchiness or irritation, while the pain or fever from the infection can also cause heavy panting. Foreign objects in the ear, ear mites, or injuries to the head or neck may trigger similar behavior.
Also, anxiety, allergic reactions, or neurological issues could result in both panting and head shaking.
Common Causes of Dog Panting Heavily and Shaking Head
Ear Infections
Ear infections are one of the most frequent reasons dogs shake their heads. Bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the ear canal causes inflammation, discomfort, and itchiness.
This irritation leads to constant head shaking, and the discomfort can elevate a dog’s stress level, causing them to pant more than usual.
You might notice redness, swelling, a foul odor, or discharge from the ear. Dogs may tilt their head or cry out when touched near the ears.
Left untreated, ear infections can lead to chronic pain and even hearing loss.
Allergic Reactions
Dogs suffering from allergies—whether food-related or environmental—can experience intense itching, including in the ears.
Allergies can cause both head shaking and body-wide inflammation, which may lead to labored, heavy panting.
Common allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, certain proteins, and flea saliva. You may also notice red skin, scratching, and watery eyes.
Severe allergic reactions, like anaphylaxis, may cause sudden heavy breathing and disorientation—this is a medical emergency.
Read more: Dog Panting Excessively (Here’s why)
Foreign Object in the Ear
A lodged grass seed, tick, or insect inside your dog’s ear can be incredibly irritating. In response, your dog may shake their head violently in an attempt to dislodge the object.
This irritation can cause heightened anxiety and lead to heavy panting.
If you notice sudden onset of symptoms—especially after being outside—check the ear canal if safe to do so.
A vet should remove any foreign body to avoid damage to the ear.
Dental Pain or Oral Issues
Dogs with painful dental conditions, such as abscesses or broken teeth, may exhibit both panting and head shaking.
Pain in the jaw or mouth can radiate upward, making the ear and head area uncomfortable.
This discomfort often causes head shaking and pawing at the face.
Panting is a secondary reaction to stress and pain. Look for signs like drooling, bad breath, bleeding gums, or reluctance to eat.
Neurological Disorders
Certain neurological issues—such as vestibular disease or seizures—can present with head shaking or tremors.
These conditions may also affect your dog’s breathing patterns, leading to heavy panting.
If your dog seems disoriented, loses balance, walks in circles, or has irregular eye movement along with panting and head shaking, seek immediate veterinary care.
These symptoms can indicate a serious brain or nervous system issue.
Pain or Anxiety
General pain or emotional distress can also manifest as panting and head shaking.
Dogs may react to pain from arthritis, injury, or trauma by shaking their head—especially if the discomfort is in the neck, ears, or face.
Heavy panting is a classic canine sign of anxiety. Situational stressors like thunderstorms, travel, or loud noises may lead to these behaviors.
If the signs appear only in certain environments or moments, anxiety may be the root cause.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting Heavily and Shaking Head
Start by calmly assessing your dog’s behavior and physical symptoms. Check their ears for visible signs of infection, redness, or swelling—but avoid inserting anything into the ear.
If your dog seems overheated, bring them into a cool, quiet space.
Offer water and encourage rest. Monitor them closely and look for any signs of worsening distress, like vomiting, drooling, or inability to stand.
Gently feel around your dog’s neck and head to check for signs of tenderness or swelling. Avoid handling if they seem in pain.
If the behavior happens occasionally, keep a log of when and where it occurs.
This helps your vet identify potential triggers, such as allergens or stressors.
Avoid self-treating with over-the-counter ear drops or medications unless advised by your veterinarian. Incorrect treatments can make infections worse.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your vet right away if your dog:
Has continuous or violent head shaking
Is panting heavily for more than 10–15 minutes
Shows signs of ear discharge, swelling, or pain
Seems dizzy, off-balance, or disoriented
Cries out when you touch their ears or head
Develops additional symptoms like vomiting or loss of appetite
These could signal a deeper issue such as an ear infection, neurologic disorder, or pain that needs immediate attention.
Read more: Dog Panting Heavily and Not Eating (Is it an emergency?)
Key Takeaway
Panting heavily and shaking the head are signs that your dog may be experiencing pain, discomfort, or even a medical emergency.
While some causes are mild and treatable at home, others—like infections or neurologic issues—require prompt veterinary attention.
Always observe closely and act when the symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other troubling signs.
Your quick response can make a crucial difference in your dog’s health and comfort.