Our dogs' ear movements can tell us much about their emotions, behavior, and well-being. Twitchy dog ears usually happen when irritated by the environment around them, as a subconscious move, or because of root health issues. Let's look at seven reasons your dog's ear could be twitching and solutions to help your pet if needed.
Why Is My Dog's Ear Twitching?
Your dog's ear might be twitching for numerous reasons. Figuring out why and knowing what to look for is valuable in addressing the issue and ensuring they remain healthy and comfortable.
- Irritation
- Ear Mites
- Early Onset of an Ear Infection
- Communication or Focus
- Sleeping and Dreaming
- Feeling Nervous or Agitated
- Overexertion or Dehydration
Irritation
Mild irritation is very likely to cause a dog to twitch its ears. Perhaps something got stuck in the ear canal, like a piece of grass or a tiny debris piece. The natural way for canines to respond to such an annoyance is to flick their ears or shake their heads; it's their way of trying to dislodge or shake off the irritant.
Sometimes, a dog's ears twitch if a slight breeze catches them. If you've ever gently blown on your dog's ear, you'll know that it will likely wiggle automatically in response.
Ear Mites
Tiny hitchhikers, known as ear mites, love living in the canine ear canal. These little creatures adore eating wax and skin fragments. Their unwanted presence can cause severe irritation and discomfort.
Ear mites are more frequent in cats, but these tiny critters can also affect dogs, especially if they come into contact with infected animals. Their presence often results in infections that a veterinarian needs to treat.
Early Onset of an Ear Infection
A trip to the veterinary clinic is in order when a dog's ear twitching develops into whining, scratching, and repeated head shaking. These symptoms usually indicate an ear infection. A vet can help by:
- diagnosing the problem
- prescribing appropriate medication
- suggesting ways to control or prevent future infections
Communication or Focus
Ear expressions in dogs can be rather cute at times. When their ears flick around in different positions, this is sometimes focus-driven or a form of communication. For example:
- Confusion or Needing Clarification: They might tilt their head and ears, looking at you as if to say, "I'm not quite sure I understand" or "Did you just say we can go to the dog park?" Their ears twitch towards you to hear and understand you better.
- Awareness of Surroundings: If the dog's ears flicker away from you as you speak, they are likely paying attention to something else even though they remain aware of your presence.
Embrace these wonderful quirks and behaviors and take the opportunity to communicate with your pet and strengthen your bond.
Sleeping and Dreaming
During sleep, dogs periodically twitch their ears or wag their tails because they are dreaming. This normal part of the REM sleep cycle is typically nothing to worry about. You might feel curious, watching your dog's ears fluttering at night as they dream about their daily activities.
Feeling Nervous or Agitated
Dogs sometimes shake and twitch different parts of their bodies when they feel vulnerable. Perhaps they are cold, excited, stressed, anxious, want attention, are in pain, or are feeling the effects of getting older.
It's important to distinguish between normal ear-twitching and something more problematic, like seizure-related symptoms. Ask yourself if any signs of distress accompany the twitching movements. When in doubt, consult your vet.
Overexertion or Dehydration
Localized twitches, brought on by physical trauma, neurological impairment, or excessive exercise, are known as muscle spasms. Spasms can sometimes be characteristic of a more severe problem. If your dog's ear twitches for this reason, you'll likely notice other symptoms like lethargy or difficulty moving.
Offer your pup plenty of water and let your vet know what's happening. Providing detailed observations can help the vet determine the cause and give appropriate treatment.
Why Do My Dog's Ears Twitch When I Touch Them?
Your dog's brain is subconsciously saying that something is bothering them. They might react instinctively, even if your touch is not uncomfortable or painful.
For example, have you ever experienced a fly buzzing around your head? Your instinct might be to move your head quickly or raise your arm to swat it away. Just as your reflexes respond to such stimuli, a dog's ears twitch in response to touch.
If your dog seems bothered by your touching them and flinches or pulls away, an infection might be in the ear canal. Such a reaction signifies that they are experiencing discomfort, so it would be a good time to call the vet.
Ear Twitching in Senior Dogs
If your senior dog's ear is twitching, getting your old friend to the veterinary clinic for a check-up is the wisest action. "Old dog vestibular syndrome" happens in some senior canines when their balance is suddenly disturbed; it occurs because of issues related to the inner ear or brain.
The formal name for this condition is idiopathic vestibular disease. This condition often resolves itself with supportive care, but a vet visit is necessary to rule out other, more severe conditions.
Dog Ear Twitching Treatment
Gently cleaning the ear with a vet-approved solution is the best way to dislodge any loose pieces of earwax, dirt, sand, etc., and soothe uncomfortable itches. The tips that follow can help you with that.
Nonetheless, if an infection or mites seem to be causing your dog's ear twitching, you will need to ask your vet for clarification on the next steps. In terms of treatment, your vet might prescribe medications or suggest other remedies to address the underlying problem.
Cleaning Your Dog's Ears at Home
Choose an over-the-counter dog ear cleaning solution approved by a veterinarian, or get a prescription for one. Dog ear cleaners are fantastic at dispersing hazardous wax and debris, drying the ear canals, and removing bacteria and yeast.
I suggest you use Vet One Aurocin CM - Ear Cleanser with Aloe. This formulated mixture is vet-approved and gently soothing on canine ears. Follow the instructions on the product packaging for straightforward administration.
Ear cleaning is a necessary and beneficial routine for dogs. As pet caregivers, we should do it every few weeks or so. It's important to help prevent infections, remove debris, and keep ears healthy.
When to Call a Vet
It's a good idea to consult your vet if your dog's ear twitching is accompanied by worrying symptoms. Asking for professional help is always a sound, responsible move if you have concerns. Be on the lookout for:
- head-shaking
- vomiting
- persistent scratching
These signs can suggest more severe conditions like vestibular disease or infections. If your pup constantly shakes its head or scratches its ears, please err on caution and seek expert advice. You want to ensure your pet is healthy and prevent further complications.
Final Thoughts
Understanding why your dog's ear is twitching can help you provide the best care for your four-legged friend. Keeping your pup's ears healthy and comfortable is all part of responsible pet ownership; it requires regular ear checks and cleanings, plus prompt veterinary care when necessary.
Source: Pet Helpful
