Beware of Head Pressing in Dogs
We’re all familiar with our dogs pressing up against us, whether they’re seeking affection or indicating a desire to go outside. However, head pressing is a distinctly different behavior and typically manifests in a way that is not easily confused with these normal actions.
Unlike the affectionate or communicative pressing against their owners, dogs exhibiting head pressing will often press their heads against hard surfaces such as walls or furniture. Although this behavior may initially appear odd or awkward, it is important to recognize it as a potential indicator of a serious underlying health issue.
What is Head Pressing, Exactly?
Head pressing is when a dog repeatedly and compulsively presses their head against hard surfaces without any obvious reason. This behavior is different from normal actions like rubbing or nuzzling, which dogs often do to show affection or relieve an itch.
Head pressing is repetitive and seems out of place, almost as if the dog is unaware of their surroundings. It’s not just a quirky habit; it usually signals a serious health problem. Conditions like brain tumors, liver disease, toxic poisoning, or metabolic disorders can cause head pressing.
Because it often points to a significant underlying issue, this behavior needs immediate veterinary attention to diagnose and treat the root cause.
What Head Pressing Looks Like
To see what head pressing looks like, take a look at the video below:
Causes of Head Pressing in Dogs
There’s a list of potential causes of head pressing, including:
Hydrocephalus as a Cause
Inflammation within the brain is often autoimmune in dogs and is a potential cause of head pressing. This inflammation can occur in the:
- Meningitis: Membranes surrounding the brain
- Encephalitis: Brain tissue itself
- Meningoencephalitis: Both the membranes and the brain
The reason the brain swells is due to something called cerebrospinal fluid, CSF, which builds up inside the skull. This can happen because the body isn’t absorbing the fluid properly or, less often, because it produces too much. Dogs can be born with this condition (congenital) or develop it later in life (acquired). Some breeds, especially toy breeds, are more likely to have hydrocephalus than others.
Brain Tumors Are Common in Dogs
Brain tumors are among the most common neurological issues affecting dogs, particularly older ones. The exact reasons why these tumors develop are complex and involve a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Despite extensive research, pinpointing a single cause remains challenging.
Liver Disease is a Possibility
Although liver disease isn’t the most common cause of head pressing, it remains a possibility. The condition associated with head pressing and the liver is known in the veterinary community as hepatic encephalopathy.
When the liver isn’t functioning properly, ammonia may accumulate in the dog’s body. The excess ammonia may travel to the brain resulting in detrimental effects to the central nervous system.
The cause of liver disease varies, but could include cirrhosis, hypertension, cancer, or a mass. Birth defects that cause a portosystemic shunt may also cause this condition.
Poisoning Can Cause Problems
Poisoning and illness could cause similar signs including dilation or constriction of the pupils, reduced or increased heart rate, tremors, lethargy, and vomiting. The first sign of your dog being poisoned rather than having an illness is the lack of a fever. The veterinarian will likely ask a series of questions, check your dog’s temperature, and run some tests.
Providing the veterinarian with any possible toxins your dog could have lapped up is extremely helpful. If you are aware of what could have caused the poisoning, the veterinarian is more equipped to treat it.
Symptoms Associated with Head Pressing
Pressing Against a Wall or Surface: If your dog is compulsively pushing themselves against a surface without a clear reason, it may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Reduced reflexes: Decreased body movement or weakness can signal a problem with the nervous system.
- Lethargy: Drowsiness or lethargic behavior is a common symptom of an underlying illness and can accompany head pressing.
- Excessive pacing: Compulsive pacing or circling can be a sign of a brain issue.
- Sores: Constant rubbing against surfaces can cause sores, often found on the snout, but they may also appear on other parts of the body.
- Frequent seizures: Seizures, or loss of control over body movements, are serious indicators of a neurological problem.
- Behavioral changes: Sudden changes in behavior, like unexpected aggression, can signal a brain-related medical issue.
- Vision problems: Bumping into objects or other signs of visual impairment may be related to an underlying brain problem.
Disorientation Can Be Alarming
Disorientation in dogs can manifest as confusion, aimless wandering, difficulty navigating familiar environments, and an inability to recognize familiar people or objects. You might notice your dog bumping into furniture, appearing lost in familiar settings, or displaying unusual anxiety or agitation. Other signs include staring into space, getting stuck in corners, or having difficulty following simple commands.
Disorientation related to head pressing can result from several underlying conditions:
- Neurological disorders like brain tumors or encephalitis can impair brain function, leading to confusion.
- Liver disease can cause toxin buildup in the bloodstream, affecting the brain.
- Poisoning can disrupt the central nervous system, causing disorientation.
Seizures Require Medical Intervention
Seizures in dogs can vary, including generalized (affecting the whole body), focal (localized to one area), and psychomotor (involving unusual behaviors), and are often connected to head pressing as both can indicate neurological issues such as brain tumors, encephalitis, or toxin exposure.
If your dog has a seizure, stay calm, remove nearby objects to prevent injury, and do not restrain them. Time the seizure and note its characteristics to report to the vet. After the seizure, keep your dog quiet and contact Revel Vet immediately for further evaluation.
Diagnostic Approach at Revel Vet
In addition to a physical exam and a thorough health history, further diagnostic tests may be recommended for a dog showing signs of head pressing. These useful tests may include an eye exam, blood pressure measurement, urinalysis, blood work, and diagnostic imaging.
Check out Revel Vet’s diagnostic services page
Treatment Options for Headpressing in Dogs
The treatment approach for head pressing varies depending on the specific cause identified, with some conditions necessitating urgent intervention to prevent further complications.
Treatment for Neurological Disorders Ranges
For neurological issues, treatments may include various medications and therapies to manage symptoms and improve the dog’s quality of life. These can involve anticonvulsants to control seizures, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce brain inflammation, and physical therapy to maintain mobility and function.
Lifestyle Changes Can Help Liver Disease
Treating liver disease often involves a combination of medications and dietary changes to support liver function and reduce its workload. Supplements and specialized diets can help manage symptoms and improve overall liver health, aiding in the dog’s recovery and well-being.
How Veterinarians Treat Poisoning
If your dog has been poisoned, the veterinarian will take immediate steps to identify the toxin and neutralize its effects. Treatment methods may include providing fluids to address dehydration, administering activated charcoal to absorb the toxins, using chelation therapy, or giving medications that inhibit the body from converting the substance into harmful by-products, such as in the case of antifreeze poisoning. These interventions are initiated promptly and are continued until your dog has recovered.
It’s crucial to note that you should never attempt to induce vomiting without the direction of your veterinarian. There’s a common misconception that vomiting the poison is the first step, but the first step must be calling the pet poison hotline or Revel Vet.
Brain Tumors May Require Surgery
For brain tumors, surgical options may be considered to remove or reduce the size of the tumor. Supportive care such as medications to control pain and seizures, along with radiation or chemotherapy, may be utilized to improve the dog’s quality of life and manage symptoms. If the tumor is more than what your dog can handle, palliative care may be recommended.
Infections Should Be Treated Promptly
If an infection is causing head pressing, antibiotics and supportive treatments are necessary. These can include medications to eliminate the infection, along with supportive care to manage symptoms and promote recovery. Ensuring proper hydration and nutrition is also critical during the treatment process.
Importance of Early Detection and Regular Check-ups with Your Veterinarian
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for the early detection of serious health conditions in dogs. By maintaining a routine schedule with your veterinarian, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become severe.
If you notice any unusual behaviors, like head pressing, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s health and well-being.
Visit Revel Vet if You Notice This Behavior
Recognizing head pressing as a sign of a potential health issue is vital. If you observe your dog displaying this behavior, it’s imperative to consult your veterinarian immediately.
At Revel Vet, we emphasize the importance of regular, fear-free visits to ensure your pet’s health is monitored consistently. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—schedule an appointment with Revel Vet today to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Resources
Head Pressing – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
Behavioural and Medical Differentials of Cognitive Decline and Dementia in Dogs and Cats – PMC
Diagnosing and treating portosystemic shunts in dogs and cats
Managing seizures | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Advances in diagnostic and treatment modalities for intracranial tumors
