Can Dogs Get Headaches

Headaches are a common human complaint, but have you ever looked at your dog and wondered if they might feel the same kind of pain? Dogs can’t tell us if they have a headache, but based on what we know about their biology and behaviour, it's very likely they can experience them — even if they don’t show it the way we do.

How Dogs Might Experience Headaches

Dogs have a similar nervous system to humans, including the structures involved in processing pain. That means they can feel discomfort in the head just like we can. Headaches in dogs are not officially diagnosed in the same way they are in people, but many vets believe they’re possible, especially in response to certain triggers.

Causes could include head trauma, high blood pressure, sinus issues, stress, or exposure to toxic smells like smoke or strong chemicals. Some dogs may even get headaches as part of an underlying illness or neurological condition. While it’s hard to pinpoint a headache directly, we can spot the signs that suggest something isn’t right.

What Are the Signs of a Headache in Dogs?

Since dogs can’t talk, you have to rely on changes in behaviour. A dog with a headache might act unusually quiet or withdrawn. They may shy away from being touched on the head, seek out dark, quiet spaces, or show signs of discomfort when exposed to light or noise. Some dogs may rub their head against furniture or paw at their face.

Other signs can include lethargy, whining, or a loss of appetite. If your dog is normally social and suddenly wants to be alone, that could be a sign they’re in some sort of pain, including a possible headache.

What You Should Do If You Suspect a Headache

If your dog shows these signs occasionally and they pass quickly, it might not be anything serious. However, if the behaviour becomes frequent, lasts more than a day, or comes with other symptoms like vomiting or difficulty walking, it’s time to contact your vet. Headache-like symptoms can sometimes be linked to more serious problems like infections, dental issues, or neurological disorders.

Your vet may perform a physical exam, check your dog’s eyes and ears, and ask questions about their environment or recent activity to help identify the cause of discomfort.

Pain Relief and Prevention

Never give your dog human painkillers. Medications like paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin can be dangerous or even fatal for dogs, even in small doses. Only use medication prescribed specifically for your dog by a vet.

Prevention is all about good care — keeping your dog well-hydrated, avoiding overexposure to heat or loud environments, and steering clear of harsh chemicals or smoke. Regular vet check-ups and dental care also play a role in avoiding health issues that might lead to pain.

 

What Causes Headaches in Dogs?

While we can’t ask them directly, there are several conditions and triggers that may lead to headache-like pain in dogs:

• Sinus pressure from allergies, infections, or inflammation — similar to how humans get sinus headaches
• Dental problems, such as abscesses or gum disease, which can radiate pain through the head and jaw
• Ear infections, which are common in dogs with floppy ears and can cause discomfort in and around the head
• Neck or spine issues, especially in breeds prone to back or disc problems, may result in referred pain to the head
• Head trauma, even mild bumps, can potentially cause headaches
• Stress and anxiety, particularly in dogs sensitive to changes in routine or loud environments

Though we can’t say these cause headaches exactly like humans experience them, they absolutely create head-related discomfort that dogs feel.

Is There a Link Between Seizures and Headaches in Dogs?

Some veterinary neurologists believe dogs may feel head pain before or after a seizure, similar to how some people get headaches before or after an epileptic event. This isn’t proven, but it’s another reason vets consider head pain a possible symptom, especially in dogs with known neurological issues.

Are Some Breeds More Likely to Experience Headaches?

While there's no official breed list, brachycephalic breeds (those with short, flat faces like pugs and bulldogs) may be more prone to sinus pressure and breathing difficulties, which could contribute to head discomfort. Dogs with long ears like cocker spaniels may be more susceptible to ear infections, another common source of pain around the head.

Can Environmental Factors Trigger Headaches in Dogs?

Yes, things like:

• Loud noises (fireworks, storms, construction)
• Strong odours (cleaning products, perfumes, smoke)
• Overheating
• Dehydration

These can all make a dog uncomfortable and may contribute to symptoms consistent with a headache. Dogs are also very sensitive to changes in air pressure and atmosphere, so some owners notice their dogs act differently before storms — a time when humans also report weather-related headaches.

How to Comfort a Dog That Might Have a Headache

You can help your dog by keeping things calm and quiet. Offer a dark, peaceful space to rest, and avoid touching their head if they seem sensitive. Make sure they have access to fresh water, and don’t try to treat the pain yourself without veterinary advice. Comforting them with a gentle voice and staying close can also help reduce stress and make them feel more secure while they recover.

Summary

Dogs likely can get headaches, although they can’t tell us directly. The signs are subtle and behavioural — avoiding light, acting withdrawn, or being sensitive to touch. If your dog shows these signs more than once or seems in pain, it’s best to check with your vet. With the right care and attention, you can help keep your dog happy, healthy, and headache-free.