Dog behavior is a subject that has always fascinated animal lovers. Many times, dog owners wonder why their pets perform certain behaviors. This is precisely the case when a dog leans its head against the wall.
If a dog is persistently or unusually leaning its head against the wall, this may be a concerning behavior and could indicate a health problem. Constantly leaning the head against the wall or any other object could be a sign that the dog is experiencing discomfort, pain or medical problems.
This behavior is known as “headstand” and may occur more frequently in adult dogs. On such occasions, it may be a behavior related to stress, anxiety or loneliness. When a dog feels these emotions, it may lean its head against the wall as a way of relieving its anxiety.
It can also be a way to seek attention. Dogs are social animals and need interaction with other living beings to feel happy and safe. If a dog feels that his owner is not paying enough attention to him, he may try to get his attention by leaning his head against the wall.
Reasons why a dog leans its head against a wall
In addition to reasons related to stress and emotions, some possible reasons why a dog might have this behavior are as follows:
Pain: If a dog has a headache, or pain in other parts of its body, it can seek relief by resting its head against a surface. This could be related to a variety of medical problems, such as migraines, infections, dental or muscular problems, among others.
Neurological disorders: Some neurological diseases, such as encephalitis, may cause unusual symptoms, including behaviors such as leaning the head against the wall.
Balance problems: Problems in a dog’s balance system, such as those related to the inner ear, can cause him to seek stability when resting his head against a surface.
Eye or ear problems: Problems in the sensory organs, such as ear infections or cataracts, can cause discomfort and cause the dog to seek support or relief.
Unusual behaviors
If you notice that your dog is persistently leaning its head against the wall, I recommend that you consult a veterinarian immediately. An animal health professional will be able to perform a complete examination to determine the underlying cause and provide the necessary treatment.
Specifically, this behavior in your dog is not a disease per se. But it can be a warning sign. Underlying diseases include metabolic disorders, hypo- or hypernatremia, which is the absence or excess of sodium in the blood. It can also be a symptom of hepatic encephalopathy or parasitic diseases or infections in the nervous system.
It is important to address any health concerns of your pet quickly and appropriately to ensure their well-being.
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