Why Dogs Tilt Their Heads

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Does your dog tilt their head when you speak or when they hear a strange noise?  It’s common for pets to tilt their head in response. It looks like they are listening.  Lots of pet owners find this move adorable, but why does your pet really tilt their head?

These are a few possible explanations:

• Improve Hearing – A slight change in head position can provide a dog with the ability to more accurately locate the location and distance of a sound.
• To Understand – When dogs listen to your voice, they are trying to identify familiar words or tones.  This helps them associate what you are saying with a reward.
• Vision – Facial expressions, body language and eye movements all play a role in being able to better understand what someone is saying.  Dogs with longer muzzles have a particularly difficult time viewing a person’s face.  Tilting their head could mean that they are trying to better see your expressions.
• Positive Reinforcement – We love when dogs tilt their heads!  We tend to be more positive or offer a treat when a dog tilts their head.  This reaction encourages the activity and they are more likely to repeat the gesture in the future.

Learn more about why your dog might tilt their head here.  You can also contact Bregman Vet Group with any questions you have regarding your pet.