Q: Why do dogs rub their faces?

A: Dogs are often seen rubbing their faces on walls, floors, walls, grass and other things. This behaviour is not always a cause for concern and may be the result of something as simple as an itchy face, but there are some cases where you may need to visit the vet.

When to be worried

If a dog regularly rubs their face on something, then there may be a problem; intermittent rubbing is less likely to be a concern.

Concerning causes

Allergies

Some dogs develop allergies that cause them to be itchy and rub their faces. Itchy skin is also commonly associated with itchy eyes, so these dogs may rub their faces in an attempt to ‘scratch the itch’. Allergies can be to a food or treat that a dog eats or environmental allergens such as cleaning products, dust mites, various grasses or pollen. These allergens may be a constant problem or may just affect the dog seasonally. A dog with allergies is likely to have other symptoms, including itchy or smelly ears, itchy paws, an itchy bottom and other skin changes, including redness, hives and/or thickened skin.

NOTE: If the allergic symptoms have developed quickly and/or you notice any swelling around the face, take your dog to the vet immediately.

Insects

External parasites include fleas, mites such as Demodex and scabies and ticks. These parasites can bite or burrow into the skin and may cause discomfort or itchiness. If your dog appears extremely itchy, he should be examined by your vet.

Irritation from a collar

New collars or collars that are too tight may cause a dog to rub his face and neck on the ground, furniture, and walls to relieve the discomfort. You should always be able to comfortably skip two fingers (vertically) under your dog’s collar.

Something on the face

Dogs with food, dirt or dampness on their faces may rub them on something to wipe it off.

Pain

A dental issue, nose pain or ear pain can cause a dog to rub his face on something to ease the pain. Dogs with dental pain may eat less or only chew on one side of their mouth. Bad breath, bloody saliva and dropping food from their mouths are other signs that point to dental causes. Nose pain or irritation can come about through the presence of polyps and cause your dog to rub their face to ease the discomfort. Ear pain also causes dogs to rub their faces. Other signs of ear pain include a bad smell from the ear and redness within the ear. If you suspect pain to be the cause of the face rubbing, take your dog to get them examined by a vet ASAP.

Eye issues

An itchy or painful eye can occur due to allergy, infection or injury. A dog with eye irritation will often paw at his eye or hold it shut. If an eye problem is suspected, your dog needs to receive urgent veterinary attention.

Brain tumour

Brain tumours are a rare cause of a dog rubbing his face on something but do merit mention. Brain tumours can cause pain and discomfort, and this can lead to head rubbing or pressing. Other signs indicative of a brain tumour include seizures, behavioural changes, confusion, vision issues or hearing issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog straight to the vet.

Low calcium levels

Low calcium levels, or hypocalcaemia, can also lead to facial itchiness and rubbing of the face. Low calcium can occur for several medical reasons and can result in other signs such as twitching, seizures, restlessness, aggression or excessive drinking and urination. This condition must be diagnosed and monitored by a vet, and a dog with these clinical signs should be seen by a vet straight away.

Other causes

Smells good!

If your dog finds something that smells good, they may just rub their face and body in it because they like it so much. The item may not have a pleasant smell to humans, but it can be great for a dog!

Marking territory

Dogs can leave their scent on an item to mark their territory by urinating, defecating or simply rubbing their face or body on it. This action leaves pheromones for other dogs to detect.

It just feels good!

Some dogs just like the feel of different textures and fabrics, so will rub their face on them for pure pleasure.

Take home message

If in doubt about the cause of your dog’s face rubbing, take them to a vet as soon as you can. The cause will often not be serious, but it is always better to be safe than sorry!