Why is my dog scratching its ears and shaking its head?
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Overview
If your dog is scratching its ears and shaking its head, it usually means something is irritating the ears or the skin around them. Common causes include wax build-up, dirt, allergies, ear mites, or an ear infection. You can't tell the cause for sure just by watching at home, but a few simple checks can help you decide what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Look for redness, swelling, scabs, discharge or a bad smell from one or both ears.
2. Check whether your dog is shaking its head more after walks, bathing, swimming or grooming.
3. Notice if only one ear is affected or if both ears seem itchy, as that can be useful information.
4. Watch for other signs such as rubbing the ears on furniture, scratching the face, or chewing at the paws.
5. See whether your dog seems uncomfortable when the ears are touched or when you try to look inside.
6. Check for visible dirt, wax or a build-up of debris at the ear opening. Do not poke anything into the ear canal.
7. Think about any recent changes in food, treats, shampoo, bedding or the environment that could fit with an allergic reaction.
Common Causes
Wax or dirt build-up is a common reason for ear scratching, especially if the ears are damp, dusty or not usually cleaned.
Allergies can also make the ears itchy. Some dogs react to food, pollen, grass, dust mites or something they've come into contact with.
Ear mites are another possibility, particularly if the ears are very itchy or there is dark, crumbly debris.
An ear infection can cause head shaking, scratching, smell, redness and soreness. Infections can develop after moisture, allergies or irritation.
Less commonly, a foreign body such as grass seed, a skin problem around the ears, or another ear condition may be involved.
What To Do
Start by checking both ears gently and noting what you see. If the ear opening looks dirty but not sore, keep the area dry and avoid using cotton buds or anything that could push debris further in.
Try to notice patterns. If the itching seems to follow walks, grooming or a change in products, that can help narrow down the likely trigger.
Keep a brief note of when the scratching happens, whether one or both ears are involved, and whether there is any smell or discharge. This can be very helpful if you need to speak to your vet.
If your dog is also scratching other parts of the body, that makes an allergy or wider skin irritation more likely, so it's worth watching for changes in the skin, coat and paws as well.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the scratching or head shaking is ongoing, if there's discharge or a strong smell, if the ears look painful or swollen, or if your dog seems unwell. Ear problems can become more uncomfortable if they're left alone.
It's also sensible to get advice sooner if your dog keeps tilting their head, loses balance, or seems in obvious pain.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s ears or coat need a bit of routine care, this collection may be useful for gentle cleaning and general grooming support as part of a regular hygiene routine.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep shaking its head but seems otherwise fine?
How can I tell if my dog has ear mites or an ear infection?
What should I avoid putting in my dog’s ears?
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.