Dogs licking their paws and shaking heads can be a common symptom if it is not very frequent. But, if you notice your dog shaking head incessantly and licking their paws, it can indicate an underlying health condition. It may indicate that the puppy or the dog is facing a slight discomfort of some sort. It is thus essential to find out why your dog shakes its head and licks its paws.
Quick Answer
Dogs generally shake their heads and lick their paws when they are facing any irritation or discomfort. This discomfort can be in the skin, rear end, or ears. Yeast infection or bacterial infection is one of the most common causes of dogs shaking their head and licking their paws. Other reasons can include parasitic allergies, environmental allergies, and food intolerances. If you find your dog shaking its head and licking its paws, it is essential to find the underlying cause first.
Why Do Dogs Shake Their Heads?
Shaking head is how the dog tries to get something out of their ear -something that is not expected to be there. It is quite an intuitive way for them to eliminate the foreign particles from their ears. But, as long as this act is occasional – such as an insect annoying the dog or any other temporary issue, it should not be a concern to find the dog shaking its head and licking its paws. But, when your dog begins shaking its head consistently or incessantly, it can indicate a deeper problem.
Ear wax buildup, ear infection, and food allergy are a few primary reasons for your dog shaking its head and licking its paws. However, several other secondary reasons can also be present. It may be practical to look for the exact reasons for the itchy ears in dogs before taking corrective action.
The most prominent reasons why your dog shakes its head can be considered based on four common issues.
1. Ear infections
Ear infections are quite common in dogs. They can primarily happen due to yeast infections. These infections can be very itchy and also result in discharges from the wounds, which can cause the dog to keep shaking its head. According to experts, ear infections caused by certain bacterial like cocci or rods can result in shaking head and licking paws.
Some common causes of ear infections include moist ears, yeast and bacteria, allergies to food or other environmental factors, and mites.
Some of the common ways to identify an ear infection in a dog can be
- Redness
- Swelling
- Discharge
- A nasty smell
The discharge due to the ear infection is generally observed to be yellow, green, or brown.
It is important to notice that the infection may still be present even when you may not be able to notice it. Some infections do happen deep inside the ear and can be unnoticeable.
2. Earwax Buildup
Earwax buildup is a common problem in dogs, and it is the same as the issue in humans. Maybe your dog has developed too much earwax, making it uncomfortable. In fact, too much earwax can also lead to infections. It can also block airflow, making your dog discomfort. That is one of the primary reasons to find your dog licking paw and shaking its head.
The best way to check for earwax buildup is to check the odor in your dog’s ears. If you notice some sort of unpleasant odor and a lot of gunk, it can indicate earwax buildup. The gunk or smell with no sign of infection, swelling, discharge, or other symptoms of infection can clearly indicate that it is time to clean your dog’s ears.
Do not clean your dogs’ ears at home. It is always essential to take your dog to the vet periodically to clean its ears.
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The most common reason your dog is shaking its head is the ear infections that it may be facing. These infections can result in severe sort of itching and can also cause a lot of inflammation and discharge. All these factors together may cause the dog to shake its head vigorously.
Some of the other reasons that can induce shaking head in dogs include
- Shaking puppy syndrome
- Ear polyps
- Bacterial or yeast infection
- Ear mites
- Allergies and
- Stress and anxiety
3. Allergies
Yet another cause for your dog shaking its head vigorously can be allergies. Remember that your dog may be going through several types of allergies. It can be due to environmental factors and food allergies. Analyzing the signs of allergies can help prevent the head shake in dogs. Environmental allergies can sometimes be one of the most common causes of dogs shaking their heads or licking their paws. Dogs with allergies to molds and pollens routinely lick their paws.
Environmental factors and parasites such as ticks and fleas can be the primary causes of allergies. While food allergies can be one reason, it is rare to witness food allergies in dogs. A few dog owners on Reddit consider the allergies to be the primary cause of the head-shaking behaviour with licking paws.
In the case of allergies in dogs, you would notice that headshakes are accompanied by other symptoms as well. Some other tell-tale signs of allergy in dogs can include licking paws, diarrhea, rashes, and other common symptoms of allergic reaction.
4. Neurological problems
The last but relatively uncommon cause of head shaking in dogs can be due to the neurological issues that the cat may be facing. My dog once had an infection on its tongue, and it was shaking its head in pain. I went on checking out the other symptoms and causes, and finally, my veterinarian guided me to the actual issue. Your dog can also begin eating grass all of a sudden if it feels anxious.
Other indicators of serious health conditions can include limping, loss of balance, and even excruciating pain due to some other cause. So, next time you wonder why your dog is Licking its Paws and Shaking its Head, check out the stress and anxiety factors as well.
When it comes to yeast infection, some breeds of dogs are more prone to the illness. Some breeds have it in their genes and tend to be more likely to develop yeast infections. I have noticed it in some of my dogs, and based on what I could find, here are a few dog breeds that are more likely to pose a danger and possibility of yeast infection –
- Basset hounds
- Chihuahuas
- Dachshunds
- Lhasa apsos
- Poodles
- Shetland sheepdogs
- Shih tzus
- Spaniels
- Terriers
- West Highland white terrier
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Why Does My Dog Shake His Head?
There are several reasons that your dog may be shaking his head. While shaking head and licking paws may have different reasons, shaking head alone may not be something that you need to worry about.
Some of the reasons that may make your dog shake his head include
- Ear discomfort – Dogs may shake their heads to relieve something stuck in the ear, get relief from ear infections, and when ears begin itching. The other signs of ear infection can include redness, ear discharge, swelling and a foul smell.
- Hand shy—If your dog is hand shy, it may shake its head. It may also do so if it is fearful.
- Startle – Dogs may shake their head when they are startled.
- Shaking puppy syndrome—This condition is called hypomyelination. Symptoms include body tremors, balance issues, and difficulty walking.
- Allergies – Dogs may also shake their head when they are facing any allergy
- Ear mites – Ear mites can cause several symptoms, such as ear infections
Why do Dogs Lick Their Paws After Scratching Their Ears?
If you find your dog scratching its ear and then licking its paw, it can be a clear indication of an ear infection. In such a scenario, it is practical to look for other symptoms, which may include shaking head, white or colorless discharge, yeast-like odor, redness, and swelling in the ear canal. You may also notice scabs in the ear.
Dogs may scratch their ears and then sniff at their paws for multiple reasons. It can be because of an ear infection, something bothering their ears, or they may be feeling itchy. Any irritant in the ear can also cause them to lick their paws after scratching their ears.
What Are the Signs of Yeast Infection in Dogs?
Since shaking your head and licking paws in dogs are primarily associated with a yeast infection, it is advisable to look for the signs of a yeast infection so that you can take an adequate step before it is too late. The primary signs of yeast infection in dogs can include
- Along with shaking head and liking paws, dogs may even begin biting an area repeatedly.
- It may keep rubbing itself against the furniture over and again
- Tilting its head to one side
If the infection grows further, you may witness the following signs –
- Irritated skin. You may also notice a red rash if you look closely.
- Smelly odor from mouth and body.
- Sores because of incessant scratching
- Smelly discharge from ears
- Skin may develop crusty lesions
- Thickening of skin
What Can Cause Dogs to Lick Their Paws?
Some of the common causes of dogs licking their paws are injuries, skin disorders, allergies due to environmental conditions, parasites or foods, or even behavioral issues such as anxiety and boredom. Dogs may also lick their paws soon after finishing their meal, after coming home from a walk, and even before going to sleep.
Licking paws is a typical behavioral pattern in cats. When you notice a dog licking its paws, you may wonder why my dog is turning into a cat. Jokes apart, dogs occasionally lick their paws as part of their grooming. But, it is not as frequent as the cats, though. For that matter, even in cats, excessively concentrated grooming may indicate an underlying health or behavioral condition. We will discuss it sometime later.
Is it normal for your dog to lick its paws? Well, it can be common, and there should be no issues if your dog does that occasionally. It is part of their regular grooming cycle. Dogs lick their paws when they come home from a dirty walkway or even after eating something. If the behavior is excessive, it may be a cause for concern.
Some common reasons for dogs licking their paws can include
1. Injuries
Injuries can be one of the common causes for dogs to lick their paws. When you notice an incessant and continuous linking, it is time to examine their feet. My dog was uninterested in everything else – including food – and was constantly licking and scratching at his paws. A close examination revealed that he had a small thorn-like object stuck under the underside of his feet. If you notice your dog licking its paw too much, check his nails, paw pads, and the spaces between toes and their fur. Itching due to the foreign objects can make them indulge in licking paws or shaking heads.
If your dog keeps licking its paws, a toenail injury is one possible cause. In such a scenario, provide the basic aids first and then refer the dog to the veterinarian for further care.
Overgrown nails can be another reason that can make the dog uncomfortable and induce paw licking. Indulge in regular nail rimming. You can get some training on how to do it or even consider taking the dog to a groomer to trim the nails.
Sprain or fractures is yet another possible cause that can make the dog lick its paws. This can be indicated by limping or crying on any sort of movement. Once again, this will need a veterinary intervention.
Burns are another possible cause of injury. Your dog might have walked on really hot concrete or moved through the fire that it failed to notice. Burns and blisters can also be caused by some chemical cleaning agents. Cracked or reddish paws can be a good indication of burns. Your vet may suggest the right remedies to fight the burn.
2. Allergies and Skin problems
The allergies due to food or other reasons, or even skin ailments, can make the dog lick their paws. An allergy can be due to environmental conditions or food. The skin issues can include infections and wounds.
Dermatitis is one of the common conditions that make the dog lick its paws. It may be noted that dermatitis in itself may be caused due to a host of other reasons. A visit to the veterinarian should help you fix the issue. Some of the causes of dermatitis include chemicals used in the garden, some types of grass, and certain plants.
Dry skin is yet another primary cause of injuries that may cause your dog to lick its paws. A good indicator of dry skin can be the flakes and dandruff in your dog’s fur. You can use moisturizing creams to help ease the symptoms. This will help you provide your dog with supplements such as Omega-3 oils.
Allergies can cause itchiness and irritation, just as they would in humans. Dog allergies may result from factors arising out of food, environment, or even contact with any irritant. If you notice that licking paws results from food allergy, it may be worthwhile to check out the food elimination technique for finding the allergens.
3. Bacterial and fungal infections
Yet another reason your dog licks its paws can be bacterial or fungal infections. If you suspect anything like this, it is advisable to use anti-fungal baths and medicated creams to treat the condition. Cleaning the area on a daily basis may also be a good option to help you fix the issues. Dog scratching ears and other parts of its body frequently is also an indicator of bacterial infection.
Infections can also cause your dog to have fishy breath. Learn how to fix the fishy breath in dogs.
4. Ticks, mites and insects
If your dog has been going out regularly, it can invite ticks, fleas, and other parasites. If you find your dog keeps shaking head and licking paws simultaneously, it may indicate ticks and fleas affecting it. These parasites are very tiny and can hide under the fur. They can make dogs irritable and annoyed. Your vet may prescribe topical oral medications to treat itchy skin conditions. A medicated bath for a few days can also help eliminate the skin irritation. If the situation does not improve, calling a vet for a more detailed examination and resolution may be a good idea. They should help you with the best tips on how to stop your dog from licking its paws and shaking its head.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Scratching and Licking?
If you find your dog is shaking his head and licking his paws excessively, it is essential to check for the underlying cause of the itchy paws or other issues.
No tried and tested method can help prevent dogs from scratching their ears or licking their paws. The only way that you can take care to prevent the issues is to take a few preventive actions and hope for the best. If you find, your dog keeps shaking its head and licking its paws.
Some of the best preventive options that I can suggest based on my own experiences would be
- Keep your pet well-groomed - Ensure your dog has maintained good hygiene. A quick head shake every now and then may be fine, but if you notice the pattern of the headshake is different from usual, consult your veterinarian for tips. He may suggest bathing or swimming as a few good habits your dog can develop. While bathing, consider using a mild pet shampoo. Make sure that you do not get water or soap in their ears. This can be more practical if your dog shakes his head and licks his paws excessively.
- Provide them with a balanced diet. Food plays a major role in immunity. Feed food that is rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. If you think your dog has infections from bacteria and yeast, I suggest you get in touch with the veterinarian as soon as possible. He may suggest a specific diet to help relieve itching.
- Avoid fleas and ticks—Fleas and ticks are the primary cause of concern for most issues involving inflammation of the skin. Using monthly flea and tick preventatives may help prevent or treat your dog's condition. You may also check out a few home remedy options to prevent ticks.
- Protect the dog from the sun—Excess sun may also cause dog allergies. Too much sun can cause sunburn or skin irritation. In extreme cases, it may also cause skin cancer. If you live in a region that receives a lot of sunlight, provide proper shade for your dog.
- Check out skin ailments' symptoms- Check your dog for any signs of skin issues and infections. Some of these signs may include itching and redness. The appearance of bald spots can also be a cause for concern. Consult your vet for the right plan to treat the skin ailments immediately. The early treatment may help avoid unwanted complications as we advance.
Itching can happen as a result of several issues. The phenomenon of itching is called Pruritis, and it is quite common in dogs. However, it can be of concern if it gets severe.
Personally, I have observed this affecting one of my neighbor’s dogs. When she asked me for help and advice, I looked for remedies that could help fix the problem. My research with the local vets and the internet helped me find some effective home remedies for itching.
Some items that you can rub on the parts of the body that itch can include
- Coconut oil – It helps soothe the itchiness. Make sure to use unrefined or organic coconut oil
- Baking Soda – Use water to make a thick paste and rub it on the itchy skin. Rinse it off after 20 minutes
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, making it a good home remedy for itchiness in dogs
- Aloe Vera – Like humans, Aloe Vera can also be quite effective for dogs and their skin.
- Honey – Honey is a natural cure for many ailments. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Home Remedies for Preventing Dogs shaking head and Licking Paws
While veterinary care is critical to prevent ear infections, which cause dogs to scratch their ears or paws, a few home remedies may also prove to be a good option to address the concern. Head shaking in dogs can be caused by several factors, including ear infections, allergies, foreign objects, or even neurological issues. Each of these scenarios needs to be addressed to keep your furry friends healthy.
Some of the best home remedies for preventing dog from shaking head can include
Clean your dog's ears—If you notice that your dog's head shakes differently from normal, it is safe to assume that it has some sort of ear infection. Clean its ears thoroughly, taking care not to damage the ear canal or get water into it. Use an ear-cleaning solution approved by your vet. You may also consult a vet online for the best possible remedies.
Apply a Hot compress—A hot or warm compress may be helpful in soothing the discomfort caused by ear infections. You can use a clean, damp washcloth.
Change the diet for your dog—Changing the diet for your dog may be yet another reliable solution to prevent head shakes if they are due to allergies. Switch to a high-quality, hypoallergenic diet. Make sure that your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Avoid foods that have allergens in them.
Go with natural remedies—Natural remedies such as chamomile tea or calendula oil can help treat skin infections and other allergens. They can also help soothe irritation and inflammation in your dog's ears. However, it is advisable to get in touch with your veterinarian before using any natural remedies.
Make sure that your dog's ears are dry. Moist ears can be a concern and can invite yeast or even bacterial infections in many dogs. After your dog has bathed or swum, ensure that you have dried the ears thoroughly. This will also help to get the water into the ears.
Dogs involve themselves in Shaking their heads due to issues like ear infections, but they also exhibit a sign called Shake Off. Shake Off is exceptionally different from shaking head. Vets and animal experts state that shaking off is a technique dogs use to release any stressful situation their body. This is typical behavior, and this is how dogs tend to calm themselves.
Dogs also exhibit the behavior of shaking off when they meet another dog. After sniffing each other, the two dogs who meet for the first time shake off their heads. Shake-off in dogs can be comparable to shaking hands in humans. The behaviour of shaking heads or even entire body is observed in puppies when they are having a play time.
It is essential to differentiate between head shake and shake off. Dogs generally shake their entire body instead of shaking just their head. This is a technique that dogs indulge in to take them out of any stressful situation. This is a way that they use to calm themselves. Headshake is different from Shake Off, and the latter is a natural phenomenon.[/su_box]
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Best Treatment for Dogs Ear Infections
Some good natural treatments for dogs' ear infections can include
- Use brewed and cooled green tea to clean your dog's ear. Use a cotton swab made of pure cotton. Do not use synthetic cotton. Do not pour the tea into the ear canal as it may push the debris further into the ear canal.
- Olive oil, slightly warmed, can also be a good cleaner for dog ears. (In fact, olive oil also works great in cleaning human ears. My family regularly uses it for cleaning the ear canal.) Do not use an excessive amount of oil, though. Pour a few drops and use a cotton swab to clean out the debris.
- Dab a cotton ball in a Hydrogen peroxide solution and clean your dog's ears. Adding a few drops of coconut oil may also be a good cleanser.
- You can also use Apple Cider vinegar in equal parts water to clean your dog's ears effectively.
The Concluding Thoughts
That whole discussion might have helped you understand what makes the dog shake his head or lick his paws. Understanding the reasons and the proper prevention techniques will help you in making the life of your pets more bearable. If you suspect any issues, you can devise a treatment plan to help you stay healthy. The home remedies suggested here can further help you achieve more positive results in caring for your dogs and cats.
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