What to Do If Your Dog Keeps Shaking His Head and Scratching His Ear
Seeing your dog constantly shake his head and scratch his ear can be concerning for any pet owner. These behaviors often indicate underlying ear discomfort or even infection. Fortunately, with routine care and knowledge of the common causes, most ear problems can be managed effectively.
Common Causes of Head Shaking and Ear Scratching in Dogs
- Ear Infections: Canine ears can harbor yeast or bacteria, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
- Ear Mite Infestations: These tiny parasites are highly irritating and contagious among pets.
- Wax Buildup: Excess debris can irritate the ear canal and may result in secondary infections.
- Moisture Trapped in Ears: Especially common in dogs that swim often or have floppy ears.
- Foreign Bodies: Seeds or debris can get lodged in the ear canal, causing irritation.
When to See a Veterinarian
Although some ear care can be performed at home, certain signs indicate the need for professional veterinary assistance:
- Strong odor from the ear
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge or bleeding
- Excessive pain or sensitivity when touched
- Unusual head tilt or balance issues
These symptoms may point to a serious infection or underlying condition requiring medical treatment.
Routine Ear Care and Cleaning Tips
Regular cleaning is essential for preventing issues. Depending on your dog's breed or activity level, clean the ears weekly to monthly. For example, floppy-eared breeds or dogs who swim often may require more frequent maintenance.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears Safely
- Choose a vet-approved ear cleaning solution or wipes formulated specifically for dogs.
- Lift the ear flap gently to straighten the canal.
- Apply a few drops of the cleaning solution into the canal using a soft plastic or glass dropper, or pour as directed.
- Massage the ear base gently for 20-30 seconds to loosen debris.
- Allow your dog to shake their head to expel excess liquid and dirt.
- Wipe out the accessible, outer portion of the ear using a cotton pad or soft cloth—never insert anything deeply into the ear canal.
Do not use cotton swabs (Q-tips), alcohol-based products, or human ear cleaners as they can cause irritation or push debris deeper into the canal.
Home-Cleaning Alternatives and Products
If your dog’s ears are healthy with no signs of infection, you can use mild options such as:
- 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water for routine cleansing
- Pet-safe wipes like Earthbath or VetOne VetraSeb Advanced Ear Wipes
- Veterinary-recommended liquid solutions, including:
- Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser
- Virbac Epi-Otic
- Zymox Enzymatic Solutions
- Vetoquinol Ear Cleaning Solution
- MalAcetic Otic Cleanser for mild bacterial issues
Always follow product instructions and monitor your dog’s response to new treatments.
Medicated Treatments and Veterinary Guidance
When an infection or mites are already present, veterinarians may prescribe medicated products such as:
- TrizUltra+Keto Flush (antimicrobial, antifungal)
- Vetnique Oticbliss Medicated Cleaner
- Natural options like diluted tea tree oil—only if approved by your vet
Never use medicated products without professional instruction, and treat all pets in the household if mites are diagnosed.
Preventive Measures for Healthy Ears
- Inspect ears weekly for signs of dirt or irritation
- Dry ears thoroughly after baths or swimming
- Use alcohol-free, non-irritating cleaning solutions
- Avoid over-cleaning which can disrupt ear microbiome
- Reward your dog after cleaning to reduce fear or discomfort
Summary
Persistent head shaking and ear scratching are clear signals that something is wrong with your dog’s ears. Whether it’s a simple case of wax buildup or something more serious, early detection and proper care are critical. Regular at-home maintenance with vet-endorsed products and observant habits can go a long way in keeping your dog comfortable and healthy. When in doubt, never hesitate to seek veterinary guidance—it’s the safest step toward relief and recovery.
