Your dog’s ear-scratching and head-shaking are probably doing more than keeping you both awake at night. Ear disorders top the list of ailments that prompt visits to the vet each year. Signs can range from a mild odor or discharge from the ears to painful inflammation that can make your dog aggressive. And inner ear disease can cause a head tilt, rapid eye movements called nystagmus [niss-tag-mus), a lack of coordination and deafness.

Ear problems can stem from parasites, infections, allergies or even cancer. The ear flap itself can sustain broken blood vessels from head-shaking, resulting in swelling and possible scarring.

So don’t let this information go in one ear and out the other. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian so you and your pooch can both get a good night’s sleep.