Symptom guide
Dog Ear Scratching & Head Shaking
Frequent ear scratching, head shaking, or ear rubbing — usually infection, allergies, or mites.
Triage
Good fit for telehealth
Recurring ear infections are usually allergy-driven and manageable via telehealth. A first-time severe infection (foul odor, dark discharge, obvious pain) may need in-person exam.
Common causes
- •yeast ear infection
- •bacterial ear infection
- •allergies (ears are a common allergy symptom)
- •ear mites
- •foreign body (grass awn, etc.)
- •excess ear wax
When to call the vet now
Any of these signs means telehealth isn't enough — get in-person vet care today.
- ⚠dark brown or black discharge
- ⚠strong foul smell
- ⚠obvious pain when ear is touched
- ⚠head tilted to one side persistently
- ⚠balance issues (possible inner ear)
Breeds most prone to ear scratching & head shaking
Not exhaustive — any dog can have this. These breeds are just more commonly affected.
What can help
Products and services matched to this symptom.
Dutch
24/7 vet care and prescriptions delivered
- •Unlimited vet chats
- •Rx delivered to door
- •$11/month
- •Covers anxiety, allergies, derm
Vetster
Book online vet appointments with licensed professionals
- •Licensed vets online
- •24/7 appointment access
- •Video, chat, and voice
- •Prescription support where permitted
Zesty Paws Allergy & Immune
Seasonal allergy + immune support chews
- •NASC Quality Seal
- •Seasonal allergy support
- •Salmon oil for skin
- •Chewable, dogs love them
Related symptoms
Barkly is not a veterinary service and does not diagnose or prescribe. This is educational content to help you understand your dog's symptoms. For diagnosis and treatment, talk to a licensed vet.