We often see dogs tilting their heads on Instagram reels and TikTok videos and go crazy about how cute they are. But do you really know why they’re tilting their heads? Spoiler alert: they’re not confused!
In fact, in certain situations, it may be a sign of a serious health problem. Read on to learn the 5 reasons why dogs tilt their heads and when it’s a cry for help!
Reason #1: Dogs Tilt Their Heads To Look Cute
Just look at how cute they are when they tilt their heads! Okay, so they don’t know that they look cute. But, because pawrents think that head tilting is adorable, our natural reaction is to reward them or respond with “puppy talk”.
This positive association reinforces their behaviour and it’s likely that they’ll do it whenever they want a treat or to please you.
Reason #2: Dogs Tilt Their Heads To Show Empathy
Did you know that your dog can sense your emotions? According to a study done by Dr. Kun Guo at the University of Lincoln’s School of Psychology, dogs can read their owner’s faces and understand certain human emotions such as happiness, sadness and anger.
They say that your dog is the best listening ear you can have. Perhaps the head tilt is one of their ways of showing empathy. Afterall, this is what makes dogs one of the best companions to have 🤗
Reason #3: Dogs Tilt Their Heads To Help Them See Better
One of the more practical reasons why dogs tilt their heads is to help them see better. This was discovered by Dr. Stanley Coren and applies especially to dogs with long snouts.
To understand how it works, try this — place your fist where your nose is to simulate a long snout. You’ll notice that you’ll need to tilt your head to either side to get a better view of what’s in front of you.
Thus, head tilting may be a result of your dog trying to get a better look!
Reason #4: Dogs Tilt Their Heads To Help Them Hear Better
On top of getting a visual adjustment, head tilting may also help dogs with their hearing.
Identifying sound frequencies
Animal behaviourist Dr. Jill Goldman hypothesised that dogs may tilt their heads to adjust the position of their ears as it helps with capturing certain sound frequencies. They may be looking out for the high-pitched “puppy talk” that pawrents use in an attempt to decipher what’s being said.
Trying to listen more carefully
Some of us may mistake a dog’s head tilt as confusion. However, a study done by scientists at the Eotvos Lorand University of Budapest proved otherwise. According to their observation, dogs tilt their heads to listen carefully when their pawrent is explaining something.
Dog breeds that are considered to be more intelligent are more likely to tilt their heads to listen more intently.
Due to interference of ear flaps
- Floppy ears
Some dog breeds have ear flaps that cover their ears partially or completely. This may interfere with sound transmission, which requires the dog to tilt his head to hear better. Examples of such breeds include Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds and Poodles (Standard/Miniature/Toy).
- Upright ears
Another example would be dogs with upright or erect ears. In such cases, it may limit the detection of sounds coming from the back. Breeds include German Shepherds, Shiba Inus, Yorkshire Terriers and Huskies.
Reason #5: Dogs Tilting Their Heads May Indicate A Medical Problem
When a dog’s head tilt is not associated with communication, this may be concerning as it’s an indication of a medical problem.
- External ear infections: May cause pain and itching, head tilting helps to relieve discomfort
- Middle ear infections: These are more serious and may result in continuous head tilts
- Neurological issue: Causes loss in balance, may result in head tilt such that one ear is lower than the other
Vestibular disease
Vestibular disease is a neurological issue that’s commonly diagnosed in older dogs. It refers to a sudden interference in balance and is due to problems in the inner and middle ear.
Signs and symptoms
- Head tilting
- Leaning or falling in the direction of head tilt
- Sudden loss of balance
- Abnormal jerking eye movements
- Unwilling to stand or walk
Treatment
- Medication to alleviate nausea and motion sickness
- Sedatives to help with relaxation
- For serious cases: IV fluids and hospitalisation
- For middle or inner ear infections: Antibiotics
Is It Okay To Encourage Head Tilting?
There are several reasons why dogs tilt their heads. All we know is that it’s extremely cute, so it’s natural for anyone to respond with positive reinforcement 😂
But is it really okay to encourage them to tilt their heads? Well, you’ll be glad to know that it’s generally okay! As pawrents, just keep a lookout for head tilting that isn’t associated with communication as that would be a cause for concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs confused when they tilt their heads?
It may seem like they’re confused but studies have found that it’s actually the opposite! Head tilting is likely a sign of your dog paying close attention to and trying to process what you’re saying.
Can you teach a dog to head tilt?
Yes, you can! Try this — vary the volume and tone of your voice when you speak to your dog. This will capture his attention and your dog may tilt his head so he can hear and understand you better.
Head Tilting In Dogs: Is It A Cause For Concern?
If there’s one takeaway from this article, it’s that head tilting that isn’t associated with communication may be an indication of a medical problem. If you notice that in your pet, do bring him to a vet right away!
