Dogs can be peculiar creatures, and doing odd things such as shaking their heads is often seen as normal. However, continuously doing strange behaviors can be a bad sign. So, what should you do if your Springer keeps shaking its head?
Here are 5 things to do if a Springer Spaniel keeps shaking its head:
- Check the Springer Spaniel for an ear infection.
- Check the Springer Spaniel’s ears for mites.
- Make sure the Springer Spaniel’s ears are dry.
- Clean the Springer Spaniel’s ears.
- Take the Springer Spaniel to the vet.
The rest of this article will detail what you should do if your Springer Spaniel keeps shaking its head. Let’s get started!
1. Check the Springer Spaniel for an Ear Infection
One of the most notable features of Springer Spaniels is their adorable, floppy ears. However, with floppy ears comes ear problems. When dogs have floppy ears (also known as hound ears), they’re more susceptible to issues such as ear infections.
Chronic ear infections are most common in spaniel and hound breeds because moisture can easily get trapped in their ears.
Along with head shaking, there are many other symptoms of ear infections to look out for:
- Ear scratching
- Redness or swelling
- Bad odor
- Dark discharge
- Scabs in the ears
If you suspect your Springer Spaniel might have an ear infection, it’s best to take them to the vet right away.
2. Check the Springer Spaniel’s Ears for Mites
If your Springer Spaniel spends a lot of time outdoors, there’s a good chance it could have mites. Unfortunately, ear mites are highly contagious, extremely uncomfortable, and somewhat challenging to get rid of.
It’s also important to note that ear mites have very similar symptoms to ear infections, including:
- Head shaking
- Intense itching
- Redness or swelling
- Ear scratching
- Dark discharge
- Bad ear odor
Therefore, it can be very difficult to distinguish between an ear infection or ear mites. However, if you have multiple dogs, you might be able to tell the difference if all of your dogs begin showing symptoms, as ear mites are highly contagious.
You should take your spaniel to the vet immediately if you suspect ear mites and wash any bedding the dog might have been on.
Can Humans Catch Dog Ear Mites?
The thought of your spaniel having ear mites can be scary, but it’s even more frightening to think that those ear mites can spread to your family. So, can humans catch dog ear mites?
Humans can catch dog ear mites. However, it’s less likely for humans to catch ear mites from dogs than it is for other animals. Close contact with animals infected with ear mites can potentially spread to humans, especially if you share a bed or furniture with your pet.
If you suspect you have ear mites, it’s essential to get to a doctor immediately. Ear mites in humans can damage the ear canal and potentially cause hearing loss, so it’s crucial to treat the issue.
3. Make Sure the Springer Spaniel’s Ears Are Dry
If your Springer Spaniel enjoys taking baths or jumping in the pool, its ears will often be wet. And, as they have big, floppy ears, it’s easy for water to get stuck in them.
Therefore, your Springer Spaniel may keep shaking its head to get rid of the excess water. If this is the case, it’s best to wipe your dog’s ears to remove the water before it causes an ear infection.
It’s a good idea to have a routine of ear drying with dogs with floppy ears. After your Springer Spaniel gets out of the bath, be sure to wipe the inside of its ears thoroughly. This is also essential to do after your dog has gone for a swim.
Using cotton balls to wipe down the dog’s ears should suffice. However, if you want something a little better, I recommend the Bone Dry Microfiber Towel from Amazon. This towel is not only great after your dog’s bath time, but it works exceptionally well to dry off your Springer Spaniel’s floppy ears.
4. Clean the Springer Spaniel’s Ears
If you don’t regularly clean your Springer Spaniel’s ears and notice frequent head shaking, dirty ears could be the problem. Just like water, it’s easy for dirt or debris to get trapped under your spaniel’s ears. This can get irritating, which leads to your dog shaking its head to try to get rid of it.
I recommend using the Pet MD Ear Cleaner Wipes from Amazon. These wipes are not only an excellent way to clean your dog’s ears from dirt and grime, but they also work to alleviate any itchiness in the ear and prevent ear infections. Therefore, for a Springer Spaniel, they’re more than worth it.
5. Take the Springer Spaniel to the Vet
If your Springer Spaniel continues to shake its head and you can’t figure out why, you should take it to the vet. Taking your spaniel to the vet for an ear infection or ear mites is already essential, but continuous head shaking is a sign that your pup is uncomfortable.
It’s also possible that your spaniel could have allergies that are causing the head shaking. And allergies without treatment will only leave your dog with discomfort.
Frequent head shaking, along with ear infections or ear mites, can cause ear hematomas in dogs. If the condition is left untreated, ear hematomas can require surgery. Therefore, it’s essential to take your spaniel to the vet to determine the cause of head shaking before the problem becomes worse.
Key Takeaways
Springer Spaniels may continuously shake their heads for various reasons, including ear infections, ear mites, and wet or dirty ears. So, if you notice your Springer Spaniel keeps shaking its head, it’s crucial to determine the cause by closely examining the ears yourself or taking it to the vet.
It’s best to visit the vet, as a professional will be able to find the root cause of your dog’s ear shaking and give you the proper treatment and advice on how to prevent future problems.