Dogs have some pretty strange behaviors. Some of them like to chase their tails, others like to chew their own ears, and some put their heads against the wall for long periods of time. While many people would ignore this and just think it’s a silly behavior, vets say that it could be dangerous.
In fact, they are recommending that anyone who sees their dog doing this make an appointment as soon as possible.
It can be a sign that there is serious head injury or another illness that affects the brain or nervous system. Ignoring the problem can allow it to get worse. A fast diagnosis and treatment can save the pet’s life.
According to PetMD:
“Head pressing is a condition characterized by the compulsive act of pressing the head against a wall or other object for no apparent reason. This generally indicates damage to the nervous system, which may result from a number of causes, including prosencephalon disease (in which the forebrain and thalamus parts of the brain are damaged), and some types of toxic poisoning. This condition can affect dogs of any breed or age-range.”
Some common diseases and illnesses are associated with the behavior, which is commonly called pressing.
Those illnesses and injuries include:
- Hydrocephalus (water on the brain)
- Hepatic encephalopathy (seen in animals with liver disease)
- Tumors in the brain
- Strokes or vascular accidents in the brain
- Head traumas
- Inflammatory and infectious types of meningitis and encephalitis
Dogs get into a lot of things, and it’s not uncommon for them to get injuries.
If a dog has been hit by a car, fallen from somewhere, or hit in the head by a person or an object, they may start pressing. Head injuries can be treated before they become fatal. Other symptoms of a head injury or an illness that is affecting the brain include:
- Jaundice
- Weight loss
- Increased urination
- Increased water intake
- Lethargy
- Mental dullness
PetMD also explained how diseases associated with head pressing are diagnosed.
The website says:
“One primary diagnostic procedure in cases of head pressing includes a fundic examination of the retina and other structures in the back of the eye, which may indicate infectious or inflammatory diseases, as well as irregularities in the brain. Other likely tests are blood pressure measurements to test for high blood pressure, and computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the brain. Your veterinarian will also include a urine analysis (which may reveal a problem with the metabolic system), and tests for blood lead concentration (which can indicate toxins in the system). You will need to give a thorough history of your dog’s health, the onset of symptoms, and possible incidents that might have preceded this condition.”
Being a pet owner is no different than being a parent.
You worry about your pet’s health and always want to do what is best for them. Sometimes, simple things can go unnoticed and can quickly turn into something more serious. Taking your pet to the vet for regular checkups can help you stay on top of their health.
Don’t be afraid to take your pet to the vet if you notice any behavior changes. Sometimes, illnesses can come on quickly and be serious. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you have a vet that you trust. Vaccinating your dog can also help decrease the chances of them contracting a serious illness.
While brain tumors and injuries are rare in dogs, they do happen.
It is important to know the signs and symptoms, so you can have your dog treated if necessary.
If you think of all the ways your dog takes care of you, you will realize that you owe it to them to give the best care possible. The next time you see your dog pushing their head against the wall or doing anything out of the ordinary, don’t brush it off. Talk to a vet to make sure there are no serious problems.
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