My dog shakes head, scratches, and ears smell. Allergies or infection?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 90 lbs
Is it possible for our dog to have allergies all year long our dog shakes his head n scratches his ears all the time n his ears smell wen we clean them he dont sleep cuz he is constantly scratching and walks around with his head tilted wat can we do to make him stop shaking his head he looks miserable?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 25th, 2018
Yes, dogs can have allergies all year long, but it could also be that Monster is suffering from an ear infection. Common signs of an ear infection include a bad smell from the ear, head shaking, and scratching the ear as well as a head tilt. I would take him into the vet first thing in the morning for this, especially since he is so miserable. The vet can diagnose if he does have an ear infection, what is causing it (ear mites, bacteria, or yeast), and can prescribe treatment for him. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 3rd, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If Max does not have an infection in his ears (and had a full otic exam that examined the base of his ear canal), shaking his ears could be indicative of itching or allergies. This could be systemic allergies (either food or environmental) or itching secondary to skin parasites (fleas or mites). If he seems uncomfortable, I would recommend having him re-evaluated by a veterinarian to discuss other possible causes for his discomfort and treatment possibilities (anti-itch medications, food changes, etc). Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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