Why does my dog always look up at the ceiling?
Sarah Martinez
Updated on February 28, 2026
There are many possible reasons for your dog to stare at the ceiling. They may sense something like a mouse on the other side of the drywall, see lights and shadows, or simply be bored. However, other symptoms that may come with ceiling-staring can indicate more serious issues, like epilepsy.
What does it mean when dog keeps looking up?
When it comes to dogs looking up at the sky, the most likely explanations are that they see something, hear something or smell something. Dogs may be reacting to birds, planes, and even stars! Medical causes could be at play too so look at your dog's overall behavior to figure out the cause.Why does my dog keep lifting his head up?
Possible causes include a slipped disc, meningitis, a sprained muscle, ear infection etc. Hello, this could be an inner ear infection causing him to lean to the side. Also, strokes can cause a head tilt and walking to one side. It would be best for your vet to see him to see which one it is.Why is my dog looking up at the ceiling and sniffing?
Pets often look up at the ceiling when they want to be petted. Your dog may have found a scent he cannot identify and is in the process of trying to figure out where it came from by sniffing in different directions. This may mean they smell another animal or pest that might be in your building!Why does my dog stare at the wall and ceiling?
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and seizures are the more common medical reasons why dogs stare at walls, but there are some other possibilities. Staring could be a compulsive behavior, rather like compulsive disorders in people.Ceiling Watching Dog | PETS | Great Home Ideas
Why does my dog just stare at nothing?
Similar to humans, dogs can stare to interact with you, gather information, or communicate an idea. These types of staring can be interpreted by the context in which they happen. When your dog is staring at nothing, this might be a sign of anxiety or pain, or potentially be a signaling of dementia.How do I know if my dog is seeing a ghost?
There are a few signs to keep an eye out for that might mean your pet has just seen a ghost.
- Following something invisible. ...
- Barking or hissing at nothing. ...
- Looking for comfort or trying to protect. ...
- Acting distracted. ...
- Too good to be true.
What are the signs of dementia in dogs?
What Are the Signs of Dog Dementia?
- Pacing back and forth or in circles (often turning consistently in one direction)
- Getting lost in familiar places.
- Staring into space or walls.
- Walking into corners or other tight spaces and staying there.
- Appearing lost or confused.
- Waiting at the “hinge” side of the door to go out.
How do you know if your dog is hallucinating?
Signs Your Dog is HallucinatingIn the same way, if a dog, especially a relatively quiet or soft-spoken dog, starts to obsessively bark or growl at the same spot over and over, then it's possible they are seeing something that isn't really there.