Why Does My Dog Suddenly Shake Its Head Frequently at Night?

If your dog suddenly starts shaking its head frequently at night, it could be a sign of ear mites, and they are trying to relieve the discomfort. In this situation, owners can start by cleaning the ear canal with a cotton swab and then apply medication, gently massaging the base of the ear. It's crucial to maintain this treatment for a while to ensure the ear mites are completely eradicated.

Generally, the reason why a dog shakes its head is often due to the presence of mites in the ear, causing itching and discomfort. The head shaking is a way for them to alleviate this irritation.

How to Deal with Ear Mites in Dogs

1. Clean Your Dog's Ears First

Begin by examining your dog's ears. If you notice a significant amount of black or dark brown discharge along with a foul odor, it's highly likely your dog has ear mites. In this case, use special tweezers to remove any excess hair from the ear canal, and use a cotton swab dipped in baby oil to clean out the discharge. Be careful not to insert the cotton swab too deeply into the ear canal to avoid injuring the eardrum.

2. Apply Medication

After cleaning the ear canal, it's time to administer medication. Gently lift your dog's ear, and with your other hand, apply 2 to 3 drops of medication into the ear canal. Then, gently massage the base of the ear for 10-15 seconds. Finally, release your dog and allow them to shake out any excess liquid. Consistent application of medication is necessary, as ear mites are persistent and require ongoing treatment for complete elimination. Related resource:Pet Training