Why is my dog shaking her head and has a drooping ear? Is it serious?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 18th, 2019

  It sounds like your pets may be dealing with ear infections, which can be caused by bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, or a combination of these, and can be associated with dietary or environmental allergies or sensitivities, immune system disorders, or a combination of the above. Buddy and your other dogs need to see a vet to have an ear swab done. Your vet can look at the sample under the microscope and treat appropriately based on what is found. Your vet will also need to examine the ear with a scope to see if the ear drum is intact, as some medications cannot be used safely if the eardrum is ruptured. Ear infections can be very painful, and can sometimes progress to include the middle or inner ear, where they can cause neurological signs or permanent hearing loss. Please book an appointment to have Buddy and your other dogs seen as soon as possible to help get them feeling better.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 12th, 2019

  Poor Meda! The collapsing trachea and knee issue are likely genetic and are not uncommon in the breed. The ear could be a few things like a resistant infection, a foreign body stuck in the ear, a damaged ear drum, an infection behind the ear drum or she could have an underlying condition like an allergy or hypothyroidism that cause pets to be more susceptible to ear infections.
  Make sure that the vets have been able to see her ear drum and verify that nothing is stuck in the canal. This can be difficult in small dogs and some may require sedation. If the infection is not clearing up with appropriate medications, you may get an ear culture to check for antibiotic resistance. Some other these pets will go on an even have skull radiographs or an endoscopic exam to look behind the ear drum.
  Allergies can be determined with a food trial, a blood test or trial of medications for allergies. Thyroid conditions are diagnosed with a blood test. Sometimes this process is trial and error but eventually you can get it figured out. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful