What this means
Every dog carries its head in its own way, but a healthy dog lifts it when something catches its attention. A low head means the dog holds it lower than usual, does not want to raise it or finds it hard to do so. It may seem that the neck is too weak to hold the head up, or that lifting it hurts.
The reason may be neck pain, a problem with the vertebrae or spinal cord, or weakness of the neck muscles. Some of these are inherited or appear at a young age, but a vet has to assess that. Do not decide the cause yourself and do not pull your dog's head upwards.
Notice whether the head is low all the time or only when walking, eating or tired, and whether your dog can lift it when you call. Note whether neck pain, weakness or wobbling appears at the same time. Film your dog from the side as it stands and walks, since that is the view a vet finds easiest to judge.
Possible causes
These are things that can cause this sign. It is not a diagnosis, and they are not equally likely for your dog.
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Neck pain
A dog lowers its head to protect a sore neck. It may be unwilling to turn or lift the head.
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A problem with the vertebrae or spinal cord
When vertebrae press on the spinal cord, the head is held low and the neck is stiff. The legs may weaken at the same time.
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Weakness of the neck muscles
Some muscle diseases weaken the neck muscles, so the head seems to droop. The dog struggles to lift it and tires quickly.
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General dullness or a sign of illness
A dog that feels unwell may lower its head and be dull. Other signs are usually seen alongside.
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Pain elsewhere
Pain in the belly or chest can change a dog's posture and head position. A vet needs to judge it.
What else to watch for
These observations help your vet build the picture faster. Note down what you saw and when.
- Whether the head is low all the time or only when walking, eating or tired
- Whether your dog can lift it when you call
- Whether the neck seems sore or stiff as well
- Whether the legs are weakening or the walk has become clumsy
- Whether it tires quickly or plays less
- Whether the change came on suddenly or developed gradually
When to book a routine visit
If your dog keeps its head low all the time or struggles to lift it, book an examination and show a video of the change.
Related conditions
Conditions whose entries mention this sign. The list is somewhere to read on, not a way to reach a diagnosis.
- Centronuclear myopathy Nerves and muscles Centronuclear myopathy is an inherited muscle disease in which the muscle fibres do not develop properly, leaving the puppy short of strength and stamina. It becomes apparent in the first months of life and affects muscles throughout the body. A genetic test exists, so breeders can check whether their breeding dogs carry it.
- Wobbler syndrome Bones and joints This is a condition in which changes in the neck vertebrae or the discs between them narrow the spinal canal and press on the spinal cord. This disrupts the nerve signals to the legs, and the dog starts to walk unsteadily. It can get worse gradually, but sometimes it worsens suddenly.
Body systems: Nerves and muscles Bones and joints