Animals - Animal types and traits - Dog cognition - Dogs
Why do dogs sometimes tilt their heads to the side?
Correct!
The typical dog head tilt is not yet fully explained scientifically. One important possibility is that it helps dogs perceive interesting sounds more precisely or locate their source; processing human speech may also play a role.
A study of 40 dogs examined head tilting while they listened to their owners’ requests. Dogs that had learned the names of particular toys tilted their heads especially often when they heard a familiar name. Another possible explanation involves vision, because a dog’s muzzle can block part of its field of view. A brief tilt is usually unremarkable, but a persistent tilt or balance problems warrant veterinary attention.
