Why do Great Danes bury their heads?

Have you ever wondered why does your dog bury their head in you? You’re not alone. Whether your dog buries their head in you during cuddles or when seeking comfort, this common canine behaviour serves multiple purposes.

For instance, Great Danes bury their heads to seek comfort and security, which is a behaviour seen in many dog breeds. This head-burying behaviour typically starts around 8 months of age, though it can begin anywhere between 2 to 18 months.

In this guide, we’ll explore the science behind why dogs bury their heads in their owners, examine the different reasons for this behaviour, and help you understand when this cute habit might signal something that needs attention.

The science behind head burying behaviour

The science behind your dog’s head-burying behaviour reveals fascinating insights into canine brain chemistry and evolutionary history. A dog's personality also plays a significant role in this behaviour, as individual traits and experiences can influence how and why a dog chooses to bury its head.

Understanding canine brain chemistry

Three key neurotransmitters primarily control your dog’s head-burying behaviour:

• Oxytocin, often called the love hormone, increases significantly in both dogs and their owners following positive interactions. Dogs love these bonding moments, which are reinforced by the release of oxytocin. Furthermore, studies show that mutual gazing and physical contact between dogs and their owners triggers a surge in oxytocin levels.

• Dopamine, another crucial neurotransmitter, works with the prefrontal cortex to reinforce this behaviour, essentially making your dog want to repeat these bonding moments.

• Serotonin plays a vital role in emotional states and bonding behaviours, accordingly regulating your dog’s mood balance.

Evolution of pack bonding behaviours

This affectionate behaviour has deep roots in wolf pack dynamics. Research indicates that wolves, the ancestors of dogs, are among the most cooperative canine species. Consequently, dogs inherited these strong social bonding traits through evolution.

Studies reveal that while wolves needed intensive socialisation to avoid fear of humans, dogs evolved to become more comfortable around people. Scientists discovered a correlation between sociality in dogs and specific gene variants previously identified in Williams-Beuren syndrome, a condition characterised by hyper-sociality in humans. This genetic evidence suggests that the key evolutionary event that turned wolves into dogs was an amplification of genes related to sociality.

Primarily, this transformation occurred as wolves that were less fearful of humans had better access to food and resources near human settlements.

Understanding canine behaviour

What is head burying?

Head burying is a common behaviour in dogs, including Great Danes, where they bury their heads in their owner’s lap, chest, or under their arms. This behaviour serves as a form of nonverbal communication, allowing dogs to convey their emotions through body language. When a dog buries their head in you, it can be a way of showing affection, seeking comfort, or even providing comfort to you. This gesture is their way of saying, “I trust you” and “I feel safe with you.”

Common reasons why certain dog breeds bury their heads

Dogs display head-burying behaviour for several distinct reasons, each reflecting their emotional state and needs. For instance, the Great Dane dog breed bury their heads in their owners' laps as a sign of love and connection, or sometimes to seek attention or food. Understanding these motivations helps strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Seeking comfort and security

Your dog often buries their head in you as a natural way to feel safe and protected. In cold weather, dogs may bury their heads to seek warmth and comfort. This behaviour is particularly common in newly adopted dogs, who seek comfort in their owner’s scent. Dogs feel protected when they’re close to you, primarily because your scent makes them feel at ease.

Showing affection

Head burying serves as a powerful expression of love and trust. Since dogs can’t pet you back to show affection, they often lay their head in your lap as their way of giving a warm hug. This behaviour helps them bond with you through their strongest sense - smell. Moreover, physical contact holds special significance in the dog world, making this gesture equivalent to a heartfelt embrace.

Marking territory

Dogs use head burying as a subtle form of territorial marking. They carry unique scent glands on their faces, so when they press their heads against you, they leave behind their distinct scent.

This behaviour sends a clear message to other dogs that you belong to their pack. It also sends a message to other animals about territory. Unlike the more obvious territorial behaviours such as urinating, this gentle marking through head burying shows both possession and protection.

Dealing with separation anxiety

Particularly in moments of stress or uncertainty, dogs may bury their heads as a coping mechanism. Loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, can trigger anxiety, leading to head-burying behaviour. This behaviour often intensifies when they sense you’re about to leave, indicating separation anxiety.

Some dogs develop anxiety when left alone, and head burying becomes their way of seeking reassurance. If your dog shows this behaviour primarily before you leave home, consulting a vet or trainer might help address their anxiety concerns.

Instinctual behaviour

Head burying is deeply rooted in a dog’s instinctual behaviour, passed down through generations. In the wild, young dogs would often bury their heads in their mother’s fur or in the safety of a den to feel secure and protected.

This instinctual behaviour has carried over to domesticated dogs, who may exhibit head burying as a way to seek comfort and reassurance from their owners. When your dog buries their head in you, they are tapping into these ancient instincts, looking for the same sense of safety and security that their ancestors sought in the wild.

Is head burying common in dogs?

Prevalence of head burying

Head burying is a common behaviour observed in many dog breeds, including Great Danes. While certain dog breeds might be more physically demonstrative, head burying is not limited to any specific breed. Each dog is an individual, and factors such as personality, temperament, and life experiences play a significant role in whether a dog will exhibit this behaviour.

For pet parents, it’s important to understand that head burying is a normal and natural behaviour in dogs. It’s a sign of their affection and trust. However, if you notice that your dog is excessively burying their head or displaying other unusual behaviours, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian. This ensures that there are no underlying medical issues that need to be addressed, and it helps maintain your dog’s overall wellbeing.

How age affects head burying habits

Age plays a crucial role in how and why dogs exhibit head-burying behaviour. Research shows that this endearing habit evolves throughout your dog’s life stages, with distinct patterns emerging at different ages. Each individual dog may exhibit different head-burying behaviours as they age.

Puppy stage behaviours

Puppies between 4-6 months old are still learning how to communicate effectively. At this stage, they primarily rely on their experiences with littermates and mother to develop social skills. Nonetheless, studies indicate that even young puppies can display sophisticated communication behaviours with humans, although their methods might seem less refined.

Young dogs often use head-burying as a form of submission, primarily when they're still discovering their place in the household. Therefore, if your puppy buries their head in you, they might be learning to establish trust and showing early signs of bonding.

Adult dog patterns

As dogs mature, their head-burying habits become more purposeful and established. Adult dogs typically demonstrate this behaviour based on their individual personalities rather than their breed. Although larger breeds, such as Great Danes, might be more physically demonstrative, the tendency to bury their head depends more on the dog's character than their size.

Eventually, older dogs might show changes in their head-burying patterns due to cognitive changes that naturally occur with age. Studies reveal that senior dogs experience varying degrees of cognitive decline, which can affect their bonding behaviours. Primarily, these changes might lead to increased head-burying as a way to seek reassurance or comfort.

Research indicates that dogs who have lived with their owners for extended periods often develop more sophisticated ways of communicating their needs. This explains why adopted dogs might initially show different head-burying patterns compared to dogs who have grown up with their families.

When head burying needs attention

Whilst head burying typically signals affection or comfort-seeking, certain patterns might indicate underlying concerns that need attention. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure your dog’s wellbeing. If the behaviour changes suddenly, seeking veterinary advice is crucial.

Signs of excessive anxiety

Notably, excessive head burying accompanied by specific behaviours might signal anxiety disorders. Watch for signs including trembling, tail-tucking, hiding, reduced activity, and passive escape behaviours.

Some dogs display more severe symptoms, primarily panting, pacing, and increased motor activity. Great Danes, specifically, might show heightened anxiety through persistent head burying combined with these behaviours.

Difference from head pressing

It's crucial to distinguish between normal head burying and head pressing - a serious condition requiring immediate veterinary attention. Head pressing involves compulsively pressing the head against walls or furniture.

This behaviour typically indicates central nervous system dysfunction and might accompany symptoms including walking in circles, seizures, or vision problems. Generally, head burying occurs when you're present and your dog appears relaxed, whereas head pressing happens regardless of your presence.

When to consult a vet

Consulting your veterinarian becomes necessary under specific circumstances. Seek professional help if your dog exhibits:

• Behavioural changes alongside head burying

• Compulsive pacing or standing in corners

• Reduced reflexes or visual problems

Pet insurance can help cover these veterinary consultations, making it easier to seek prompt medical attention when needed. Your vet will conduct a thorough examination, including blood work and possibly brain imaging, to determine any underlying conditions. Primarily, early intervention offers the best chance for successful treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Understanding why your dog buries their head in you helps strengthen your bond and ensures their wellbeing. This loving gesture, especially common among Great Danes, stems from both evolutionary pack behaviour and complex brain chemistry. Your dog primarily uses this behaviour to show affection, seek comfort, or mark you as part of their pack. Additionally, dogs may bury their heads to seek body heat and comfort, especially in colder environments.

Age certainly influences how dogs express this behaviour, starting from their puppy days through to their senior years. Though head burying usually signals a healthy relationship between you and your pet, certain patterns might need attention, particularly when accompanied by signs of anxiety or distress.

Responsible pet ownership means staying alert to changes in your dog’s behaviour while providing the care they need. A pet insurance policy may help protect your furry friend’s health - to get a dog insurance quote for your beloved pet you can get a quote through our website. If you would like to talk to one of our dog insurance team, you can get in touch with us on 0330 102 5748.

Your dog’s head-burying behaviour represents trust, love, and connection. Cherish these moments while staying mindful of their overall wellbeing, and you’ll enjoy a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your four-legged family member.