Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking Its Head? Common Causes & How To Help

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From a wagging tail to an inquisitive nose, dogs are expressive creatures with many ways to communicate with body language. Many of these canine gestures are adorable, like your dog showing they love you, but their body language can also indicate potential problems. One of the more common issues that pet parents will encounter is head shaking.

A single head shake is often a reaction to experiencing discomfort in the ear canal, which can be caused by water buildup or debris. A casual shake here or there is natural, but when it becomes constant, it can indicate more serious issues. The most common causes of excessive head shaking are ear infections, allergies, or foreign objects like dirt, grass, or pests — the appearance of any of these will irritate a dog's ear canal, leading to the worrisome behavior. Since the reason for head shaking can vary and be difficult for a pet parent to determine on their own, having a veterinarian properly assess the situation is essential for treatment.

While a trip to the vet should be the first step, an owner's way to help with excessive head shaking can be to address and prevent potential issues before they happen. This includes regular ear cleaning with vet-approved products like VetWELL Ear Cleaner. Pests like ticks, mites, and fleas can be addressed with proper preventative medicine from a veterinarian and deterrents like the Seresto Flea & Tick Treatment & Prevention Collar. Seasonal allergies can also be managed through bathing with a hypoallergenic pet shampoo, keeping feet clean after outdoor play, and introducing a supplement like PetLab Co. Allergy & Immune Probiotics.

While infections, allergies, or pests are common reasons behind head shaking, other causes can be more concerning to an owner, including autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, or cancers. An autoimmune disorder can lead to inflammation of the ears and discomfort, similar to allergies. However, if not addressed early, a compromised immune system can lead to more severe problems throughout the body, including skin infections and damaged organs. Neurological conditions can cause involuntary head tremors or trembling that appear in a more bobbing movement than a shake; canine distemper is an example of a neurological condition that can cause this reaction.

Brain tumors can result in irregular behavior/movement, seizures, and excessive head tilting, while a common symptom of ear tumors— including benign ear polyps — is head shaking. However, cancer comes with other signs that will make it apparent to a pet parent beyond constant head shaking, such as lumps, bumps, lameness, or lethargy. All these medical conditions require examination by a veterinarian who will be able to advise them on the best treatment at their office and home. A vet visit remains the critical first step in addressing constant head shaking at home before worrying about the best ways to help alleviate discomfort.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.