Uncovering the Mystery Behind Your Dog's Head Shaking: Why Does It Happen?
Head shaking in dogs is a common behavior that can indicate an underlying health issue. This article examines the possible causes of head shaking in adult dogs, including ear canal issues, food allergies, ear infections, and other health conditions. Signs to watch out for include tilting the head, licking or rubbing the ears, and frequent head shakes. If you notice any of these signs in your pup, it is important to take them to an animal hospital right away for diagnosis and treatment.
Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking His Head?
Head shaking in dogs is a common behavior that can be caused by a variety of factors. While head shaking may seem like a harmless activity, it could indicate an underlying health issue that should be addressed by a veterinarian. In this article, we’ll take a look at the possible causes of head shaking in adult dogs, and how you can help your pup if they’re exhibiting this behavior.
Causes of Head Shaking in Adult Dogs
There are several potential causes for head shaking in adult dogs:
- Ear Canal Issues: The most common cause of head shaking is an issue with the ear canal. This could include yeast or bacterial infections, foreign objects lodged inside the ear canal, or issues related to allergies or mites.
- Food Allergies: Food allergies can also cause your dog to shake their head. Common symptoms of food allergies include itchy skin, licking and chewing their paws, and excessive scratching.
- Ear Infections: Ear infections can be caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth in the ears. Symptoms include redness and inflammation of the ear canal as well as discharge from the ears.
- Other Health Conditions: Other health conditions such as hypothyroidism and autoimmune diseases can also lead to head shaking in dogs.
How to Notice Your Dog Shaking Their Head
It's important to pay attention to your dog's behavior so you can catch any signs of head shaking early on. Here are some signs that your pup might be exhibiting this behavior:
- Tilting Their Head: If your dog is tilting their head frequently or for long periods of time, it could be an indicator that something is wrong.
- Licking Their Ears: If you notice your pup licking their ears more than usual, it might be a sign they're trying to clean out any debris that has collected inside their ear canal.
- Shaking Their Heads Frequently:If you notice your dog frequently shaking their heads back and forth,it 's likely they' re trying to get rid of something irritating them.
- Rubbing Their Ears : Dogs often rub their ears against furniture or walls when they 're feeling uncomfortable.This could be a sign that there' s something wrong with their ears.
- Tilting Their Heads To One Side : If you notice your pup constantly tilting their heads towards one side,it could indicate an infection or foreign object lodged inside one ear.
What To Do If You Notice Your Dog Shaking Their Head ?
If you notice any signs of head shaking in your dog,it 's important to take them to an animal hospital right away for diagnosis and treatment. A veterinarian will examine your pup's ears for any foreign objects,ear mite infestations,or other health conditions causing them discomfort.They will then create a treatment plan specific to your dog's needs.It 's important that you follow all instructions given by the veterinarian so that your pup can make a full recovery.
Conclusion
Head shaking in dogs is often caused by issues related to the ear canal such as infections,foreign objects,allergies,and mites.It 's important to pay attention to signs such as frequent tilting of the head,licking or rubbing the ears,and frequent head shakes so you can catch any potential issues early on.If you notice any signs of head shaking in your pup,take them immediately to an animal hospital for diagnosis and treatment."
Related Article: Why is My Dog Shedding So Much?Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my dog keeps shaking his head?
Dont worry if your dog nods his head once or twice. However if your dog continues to shake his head frequently see your vet.
Why does my dog keep shaking his head and pawing at his ear?
Otitis externa, otherwise known as inflammation of the ear canal, affects roughly 20% of dogs. A dog with otitis may scratch his ears, shake his head vigorously and frequently, hold his ears in an abnormal position, and/or have malodorous ear discharge. The ears are also usually painful when touched.
Should I be worried if my dog is shaking?
Shivering and trembling may be symptoms of something serious -- like poisoning, kidney disease, or injury. So, if your dog suddenly starts trembling or shivering, it's important to take note of other symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or limping. Then talk to your vet right away.Aug 11, 2021
How do I clean my dog's ears?
Squeeze a veterinarian-approved ear-cleaning solution to fill your dog's ear canal and massage gently at the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. You will hear a squishing sound as the product dislodges debris and buildup. Don't let the tip of the applicator touch your dog's ear, as this can introduce bacteria.Jul 9, 2019
What home remedy can I use for dog ear infection?
Dab a cotton ball with hydrogen peroxide and add drops of coconut oil for your dog's ears; it is an effective cleanser. Apple cider vinegar and equal parts water can be used to clean the ears against infection, but do not use this if the ear tissue is raw.
Will dog ear infection go away?
In most cases, a dog's ear infection will not go away on its own. What's worse, if you wait too long to treat the ear infection, it can become much more difficult to get under control. An untreated ear infection can lead to chronic issues, hearing loss, and sometimes the need for expensive surgery.May 6, 2021