Why Do Dogs Put Their Head On Your Head? Understanding Canine Affection and Dominance
Dogs placing their heads on their owners’ heads is a multifaceted behavior, primarily driven by affection and seeking comfort, but it can also be a subtle sign of attempted dominance or attention-seeking. This article delves into the various reasons why do dogs put their head on your head and how to interpret this common canine behavior.
Decoding the Canine Head Rest: An Introduction
The seemingly simple act of a dog placing its head on your head can be surprisingly complex. While it often signifies affection and a desire for closeness, the nuances of the situation, the dog’s body language, and the context of the interaction all play a crucial role in accurately interpreting the behavior. Understanding these factors allows you to strengthen your bond with your canine companion and respond appropriately to their needs. We will explore the different motivations behind this behavior and provide you with the tools to better understand why do dogs put their head on your head.
Affection and Bonding
The most common reason why do dogs put their head on your head is simple affection. Similar to how humans might lean on a loved one for comfort and reassurance, dogs may use this gesture to express their love and trust. This behavior often stems from early puppyhood, where physical contact is a primary way for puppies to bond with their mothers and littermates.
- Seeking Physical Contact: Head pressing provides a direct physical connection.
- Releasing Oxytocin: Affectionate touch releases oxytocin in both the dog and the human, strengthening the bond.
- Expressing Security: Your head offers a sense of security and comfort.
Seeking Attention
Sometimes, a dog placing its head on your head is a straightforward attempt to get your attention. Dogs are intelligent creatures and quickly learn which behaviors elicit a response from their owners.
- Positive Reinforcement: If you respond to this behavior with petting and attention, the dog learns to repeat it.
- Boredom: A dog may place its head on you out of boredom, hoping for interaction.
- Communication: It’s a way of saying, “Hey, I’m here! Notice me!”
Comfort and Security
Dogs often seek comfort and security from their owners, particularly when they are feeling anxious or stressed. Placing their head on your head can be a way of grounding themselves and seeking reassurance.
- During Loud Noises: Thunderstorms or fireworks can trigger anxiety, prompting this behavior.
- When Feeling Unwell: If a dog is feeling sick or in pain, they may seek comfort from their owner.
- New Environments: In unfamiliar situations, a dog may rely on their owner for security.
Subtle Displays of Dominance
Although less common, a dog placing its head on your head can sometimes be a subtle display of dominance. This is more likely to occur in dogs with a strong personality or those who are attempting to assert their position within the household.
- Postural Elevation: By placing their head above yours, they are symbolically elevating themselves.
- Controlling Interaction: It can be a way of controlling the interaction and dictating the terms of the relationship.
- Resource Guarding: If a dog does this while you’re holding a toy or treat, it could be related to resource guarding.
It’s essential to consider the overall context and the dog’s body language to determine if dominance is the underlying motive. A relaxed posture, wagging tail, and soft eyes suggest affection, while a stiff posture, tense muscles, and direct stare might indicate a dominance-related motive.
Interpreting Body Language: Beyond the Head Rest
Accurately interpreting why do dogs put their head on your head requires careful observation of the dog’s overall body language. The position of their tail, the expression in their eyes, and the tension in their muscles all contribute to the complete picture.
| Body Language Cue | Possible Interpretation |
|---|---|
| ——————- | —————————————————– |
| Relaxed posture, soft eyes, wagging tail | Affection, seeking comfort |
| Stiff posture, tense muscles, direct stare | Possible dominance, asserting control |
| Ears forward, alert expression | Attention-seeking, curiosity |
| Yawning, lip licking, whale eye | Anxiety, stress |
Responding Appropriately: Building a Stronger Bond
Knowing why do dogs put their head on your head allows you to respond appropriately and strengthen your bond. If the behavior is motivated by affection, reciprocate with gentle petting and soothing words. If the dog is seeking attention, provide it in a controlled manner. If anxiety is the root cause, offer comfort and reassurance. If dominance is suspected, consult with a professional trainer to address the underlying issues.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward affectionate behavior with praise and petting.
- Ignoring Attention-Seeking: If the dog is simply seeking attention, ignore the behavior initially and then reward them when they offer a more appropriate behavior.
- Professional Guidance: If you suspect dominance or anxiety issues, seek guidance from a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog only put his head on my head and not others?
Dogs often choose a specific person to display this behavior because of the established bond and sense of security they feel with that individual. It’s likely you are their primary caregiver or source of comfort, leading them to seek your affection and reassurance more than others. Your scent and past positive interactions also play a significant role.
Is it always okay to let my dog put his head on my head?
Generally, yes, if the behavior is motivated by affection and the dog’s body language indicates a relaxed and happy state. However, be mindful of any potential dominance issues or resource guarding behaviors that might be associated with the head resting. If you are uncomfortable or suspect an underlying problem, gently discourage the behavior.
Can head pressing be a sign of a medical problem?
In rare cases, yes. However, medical head pressing is very different. It involves compulsively pressing the head against a wall or object, often accompanied by other neurological symptoms. If your dog is engaging in this type of behavior, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian immediately. The head-resting behavior discussed in this article is usually not associated with a medical condition.
What if my dog pushes too hard when putting his head on my head?
Gently guide your dog to a more comfortable position. They may simply be trying to get closer. Use a soft verbal cue like “easy” or “gentle“. If they continue to push too hard, redirect their attention to a different activity.
Does the breed of dog influence this behavior?
While individual personality plays a significant role, some breeds known for being particularly affectionate and clingy, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Golden Retrievers, may be more prone to this behavior. However, any dog can exhibit this behavior regardless of breed. The dog’s individual temperament and upbringing are more important factors.
My dog only does this when I’m on the phone. Why?
This is likely an attention-seeking behavior. Your dog recognizes that you are engaged in an activity that takes your attention away from them. They are trying to interrupt the call and get your focus back on them. Try giving them a chew toy or puzzle before you start your call to distract them.
Is it possible to train my dog to not put his head on my head?
Yes, if you find the behavior undesirable. Use positive reinforcement to reward alternative behaviors, such as sitting or lying down near you. When your dog starts to put their head on you, redirect their attention to the alternative behavior and reward them for it. Consistency is key.
What should I do if my dog growls when I try to move his head?
A growl is a clear warning sign. Stop attempting to move his head and assess the situation. He may be in pain or guarding a resource. Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to determine the underlying cause of the growling and develop a safe and effective training plan. Never punish a dog for growling, as this can suppress the warning and lead to a bite.
My dog only does this at night. Why?
At night, dogs often seek comfort and security as they settle down for sleep. Placing their head on you provides a sense of closeness and reassurance. It’s also a time when they may be more vulnerable and seeking protection.
Can I teach my dog a cue word for putting his head on my head?
Yes, you can. When your dog naturally puts their head on you, say the cue word (e.g., “lean“) and reward them with praise and a treat. Over time, they will associate the cue word with the behavior and perform it on command.
Does this behavior mean my dog has anxiety?
Not necessarily. While anxiety can be a factor, the most common reasons are affection, seeking comfort, and attention-seeking. However, if your dog exhibits other signs of anxiety, such as excessive panting, pacing, or destructive behavior, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or certified professional dog trainer.
If my dog is trying to be dominant, how do I discourage this behavior?
Consult with a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess your dog’s behavior and develop a customized training plan to address any underlying dominance issues. This may involve establishing clear boundaries and leadership roles within the household. Remember, dominance displays should be addressed calmly and consistently, not with punishment.