Head Pressing in Dogs

Head pressing is a behavior demonstrated when a dog compulsively faces a wall or corner and remains there without moving or appearing engaged in any kind of activity for a period of time.

Head pressing indicates a dysfunction of the central nervous system and results from a variety of illnesses and injuries
Head pressing is not common, but affects dogs of any size, age, or breed
Diagnosis of the underlying cause of head pressing can be difficult
Physical examination and basic blood work may suggest the underlying cause, or advanced diagnostics like an MRI scan may be necessary
Common causes of head pressing include canine cognitive dysfunction, liver disease, and tumors
Treatment and prognosis for head pressing vary widely depending on the underlying cause

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A closer look: Head Pressing in Dogs

Head pressing is not commonly observed, and is a secondary symptom of a wide range of ailments, including canine cognitive dysfunction, liver disease, and tumors. Head pressing itself is not an emergency unless present with other symptoms indicating more urgency like seizures, collapse, or labored breathing.

Head pressing doesn’t present identically in each instance; one bout can involve the dog’s head fully in contact with a wall, while a second instance can involve them standing idly with their head hung low in front of a solid obstruction. The dog can be called out of this stance with or without clear disorientation presenting afterwards, but they will resume the behavior at some point when idle.

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Possible causes

Head pressing is frequently associated with cognitive dysfunction.

Other potential causes of head pressing

Brain damage or disease

Bile Duct Inflammation (Cholangitis) in Dogs Bile Duct Obstruction and Related Diseases (Cholestasis) in Dogs

Electrolyte imbalance

Hypothyroidism in Dogs Congenital Kidney Disease in Dogs Chronic and Acute Kidney (Renal) Failure in Dogs Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism) in Dogs Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) in Dogs

Hydrocephalus

Liver Tumors and Cancers in Dogs Rabies in Dogs Distemper in Dogs Epilepsy in Dogs Portosystemic Shunts in Dogs

Risk factors

Head pressing is not common, but affects dogs of any size, age, or breed.

Since head pressing commonly results from serious disorders like canine cognitive dysfunction, liver disease, and tumors, veterinary attention is recommended.

Testing and diagnosis

In addition to physical exam and complete health history, further diagnostics may be recommended for a dog presenting with head pressing. Useful diagnostic tests include:

Eye exam
Blood-pressure measurement
Urinalysis
Blood work
Diagnostic imaging

Treatment is dependent on the underlying condition.

Similar symptoms

Head pressing may be confused with head tilting or head turning, or a dog simply getting stuck in corners. When pressing, the dog’s head won’t be tilted to one side or alternating back and forth; the dog will be facing straight-on, unmoving, and not searching for a route around the obstruction.