Why Won't My Dog Stop Shaking His Head? Should I Worry? | PetVet Care Centers

Open Menu Close Menu

• About Us
  • Who We Are
  • Leadership Team
  • Medical Leadership
• Sell Your Practice
  • Why Consider PetVet
  • Benefits of Selling
  • Clear Selling Process
  • Seller Requirements
  • Success Stories
• Join Our Team
  • All Veterinary Positions
  • New DVM Graduates
  • International DVMs
• Care For Your Pet
• Hospitals

Search Search

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• Instagram

×Close Search Search

Healthy Pet Care Tips

Why won't my dog stop shaking his head? Should I worry?

Persistent vigorous head shaking may be an indication that your dog needs to see a vet. So, when you should become concerned about your dog's head shaking? 

Why do dogs shake their heads?

Head shaking can be perfectly normal behavior for dogs if it only happens on occasion. Dogs use head shaking as an effective way to force irritants out of their ears. 

When should I be concerned about my dog's head shaking?

If your dog shakes their head once or twice but then stops, there's probably nothing to be concerned about. However, if your dog keeps shaking his head persistently and vigorously, it's time for a trip to the vet.

Common Reasons Dogs Shake Their Heads 

Many of the most common reasons for head shaking are easily treated by your veterinarian once diagnosed, however, if left untreated ear conditions can quickly become more serious. Common reasons include:

• Itchiness due to skin allergies
• Irritant trapped in their ear such as grass seeds, water or insects
• Bacterial or yeast infection
• Inflammation of ear canal

• Ear mites or other parasites in the ear
• Aural Haematoma (blood blister inside an earflap) 
• Ear polyps (growths inside of the ear canal)
• Secondary infection in the ear

What to Do if Your Dog is Head Shaking

If your dog keeps shaking her head, scratching at her ears, or if your dog's ears look red and irritated it's time to visit the vet. Head shaking can lead to aural hematomas which often require surgery to repair.

Diagnosing the cause of your dog's head shaking early will allow your vet to treat the issue before it becomes more serious. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

If you are concerned about your dog's head shaking, contact one of our PetVet Hospitals today to speak with one of our veterinary professionals or to book an appointment.

Browse Our Blogs

• Healthy Dog Blog
• Cat Care Tips
• Small Mammal Care
• Pet Emergencies
• Behavior
• Pet Health
• Illness & Injuries
• Prevention
• Specialty Care

Passionate Care for the Pets We Love

Learn More

Browse Our Healthy Dog Blog

Learn More

Great Tips on Care for Your Cat

Learn More

Find a Qualified Vet Near You

Learn More

Recent Posts

What is a dog-friendly breakfast?

Many, but not all, human foods are safe for dogs to eat including a number of breakfast foods. Below we list a few safe breakfast foods for dogs and those that should be avoided. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food.

How to Help Your Pet Recover with Physical Rehabilitation Therapy

If your pet is recovering from an injury or surgery or has a chronic health condition, they may benefit from pet rehabilitation and physical therapy. Today, our vets explain when rehabilitation may be useful and its benefits. We also list some specific treatment and therapy options.

What Can I Do to Help My Dog With Food Allergies?

Your dog can develop food allergies, just like humans can. Here, our PetVet Care Centers member vets explain what symptoms and signs might indicate a food allergy and what your best diet options are to help your pet.

How to Choose a Dog House for Cold Weather

Does your dog spend most of his days (and some nights) outside? Once the weather turns cold, you’ll want a warm, safe dog house to protect your pooch. Our PetVet Care Centers member vets share how to choose the best dog house for cold weather. Plus: Three great options.

Find a Vet Near You

Our veterinary teams understand how precious your pet is to you. We offer the quality of care you expect for your furry friends.

Find a Hospital

General Privacy Policy  |  Personnel Privacy PolicyAccessibility  |  Terms & Conditions  |  Sitemap  |  Search

Back to Top

Copyright © 2025. All Rights Reserved PetVet Care Centers.

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• Instagram

Practice OwnersCareers Open Menu Close Menu