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My dog is shaking his head, ears clean, no discharge. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 2 months old | 88 lbs

Hi. My dog has been shaking his head quite a bit today. Not constantly and when he is out for a walk or I am brushing him he doesn't do it. One ear has a scratch in it, but it is not inflamed or infected. His ears look clean an there is no discharge. He is as playful as ever. He went through this a couple of months ago and whatever was the problem it cleared up on it's own. I can't see any fleas on him and he has been treated against parasites, although he could do with a new collar

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on January 31st, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is possibly due to allergies. It really comes down to figuring out what is causing his allergies so that they can be treated or the specific allergen avoided. There are many things that can cause allergies though in most cases they can be broken down into 3 big categories: flea, food and environmental allergies. Allergies are usually worked up in a stepwise fashion starting with flea allergies as this is the easiest and cheapest to take care of. If not on a flea preventative, then it would be a good idea to get started on one. If already on one then it would be a good idea to change to something else (there are many new products out in the market). If not improved in 1-3 months then it is time to move on and check for food allergies by switching to a novel diet (new protein and new carbohydrate). If that does not seem to be the issue then you are left out having to check for environmental allergies which require blood and/or skin tests. Allergies can be very frustrating to deal with at first but so rewarding at the end when we are able to treat them effectively!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on November 2nd, 2019

    It would be hard to say without a look in the ears. Itchiness from allergies or infection could cause head shaking, parasites, wounds in the ear, or even something stuck in the ear may also cause it. In some cases, vestibular or neurologic issues may also cause a head tremor, shake, or tilt. If you can't find the problem yourself and it is very bothersome for your pup it would be best to schedule a vet visit in person.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 1st, 2018

    Hello. Head shaking is generally an indication of inflammation in one or both ear canals. This can be from allergies, infections, foreign material in the canal, parasites ( ear mites ) or fluid after swimming. It is important that you do not try to treat this yourself as this may make the problem worse by delaying proper treatment. I hope you can see your veterinarian soon to get to the source of Monsuta's discomfort. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 5th, 2018

    It's probably due to an ear infection, often it cannot be seen from the outside. Ear infections are very common in dogs, it is usually caused by either yeast or bacterial disease. the treatment is usually simple and straightforward, you will have to take Marty to the vet and get the ears checked, then a prescription ear drops will be prescribed according to the infectious agent.

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