What should I check if my dog has waxy ears and keeps shaking its head? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Waxy ears and head shaking often mean your dog’s ears are irritated. Common causes include wax build-up, ear mites, a mild ear infection or something trapped in the ear canal. You can check a few simple things at home, but you can’t tell the cause for certain just by looking.
Things To Check
1. Check whether both ears are affected or just one, as that can give you a useful clue.
2. Look for dark, crumbly debris, extra wax, moisture, redness, swelling or a bad smell.
3. See if your dog is scratching, rubbing their ears, tilting their head or seeming uncomfortable when the ears are touched.
4. Think about whether it started after bathing, swimming, grooming or a dusty walk, since moisture and irritation can make ear problems more noticeable.
5. Check for signs of ear mites in other pets in the home, especially if they are also itchy or have dirty-looking ears.
6. Notice whether the ear flap or the skin around the ear looks sore, scabbed or thickened from repeated scratching.
7. Make a note of whether the head shaking is occasional or frequent, and whether it seems to be getting worse.
Common Causes
Wax build-up is a common reason for a dog’s ears to look dirty or feel uncomfortable. Ear mites can also cause dark debris and head shaking, especially if there’s a lot of scratching. Ear infections, which may follow moisture, allergies or irritation, are another common cause.
Less commonly, a grass seed or another small foreign body in the ear can trigger sudden shaking and discomfort. Ongoing skin allergy issues can also make ears waxy and sore over time.
What To Do
Keep an eye on how often the shaking happens and whether the ears look better or worse over 24 to 48 hours. Avoid poking into the ear canal with cotton buds or trying to dig debris out, as that can make irritation worse. If the ears are only mildly dirty, keep the area dry and note any changes in smell, colour or discharge.
If your dog has been swimming or has very damp ears, gently drying the outside of the ear flap can help with routine care. If more than one pet seems itchy, check them all and keep an eye on whether the problem is spreading within the household.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the head shaking is persistent, the ear looks swollen or painful, there’s a strong smell, discharge, blood, or your dog seems off colour. Ear problems can worsen if left alone, and your vet can check for mites, infection or a foreign body.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to messy ears or coat-and-grooming worries, this collection may help support a calm, regular care routine at home.
Related Questions
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Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.