What this means
A dog that presses its head against a wall leans its forehead into a wall, a piece of furniture, a door or a corner and stands like that, sometimes for a long time. This is different from a dog that nestles against a person or rubs its head when stroked. A head-pressing dog seems cut off from its surroundings, does not respond when called and does not stop although it wants nothing.
This is not mischief or a habit but a change in behaviour, and it is a clear reason to see a vet. It often means that something is wrong in the nervous system, or that an organ such as the liver is no longer doing its job so that substances building up in the blood affect the brain. A vet has to find the cause, and there is no need to guess at home.
Note down when you first saw it, how often it repeats, whether it is linked to eating and how long it lasts. If you can, film an episode on your phone. Also mention any other changes: whether your dog is vomiting, walking in circles, wobbling, drinking more, has had a recent injury or could have swallowed something.
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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A problem with liver function
When blood bypasses the liver, substances it should clear reach the brain and can cause unusual behaviour. It may come with other signs, such as slow growth or behaviour changes after meals.
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A disease of the brain or nervous system
Damage, inflammation or changes in the brain can make a dog press its head against a hard surface. Other signs of nervous system trouble are usually seen alongside.
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Pain in the head
Sometimes a dog presses its head because it hurts. The source of the pain has to be found by a vet.
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Low blood sugar
When the brain does not get enough sugar, a dog may behave oddly. Weakness or wobbling often goes with it.
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Poisons and harmful substances
Some toxic substances act on the nervous system and cause odd behaviour. Say so if your dog could have swallowed something.
About the condition: Poisoning -
A head injury
After a blow to the head, brain function can be disturbed and behaviour change. The effects sometimes appear later rather than at once.
What else to watch for
These observations help your vet build the picture faster. Note down what you saw and when.
- When you first noticed it and how often it repeats
- How long your dog stays in that position and whether it reacts when called
- Whether it is linked to eating, for example after a meal
- Whether your dog walks in circles, wobbles or bumps into things
- Whether there is vomiting, more drinking or urinating, or a change in the pupils
- Whether your dog was recently injured or could have swallowed something unsafe
When to book a routine visit
A dog that presses its head against a wall needs to be seen by a vet without delay, even if the episode has ended. Bring a video of an episode and notes on when it happens.
Related conditions
Conditions whose entries mention this sign. The list is somewhere to read on, not a way to reach a diagnosis.
Body systems: Digestion and liver