Bai Hui:  Best Dog Acupressure Point

One of the most frequently used and beloved acupressure points in Traditional Chinese Medicine for animals is Bai Hui, often referred to as the "Point of 100 Meetings." If there were a single acupressure point that many practitioners, students, and animal caregivers learn first, Bai Hui would likely be near the top of the list.

What makes this point especially interesting is that its location differs between humans and animals.

In humans, Bai Hui (Governor Vessel 20 or GV20/DU20) is located at the top of the head, near the area where the fontanelle closes. In dogs, horses, and cats, however, Bai Hui is located on the sacrum. The point can often be found in a slight depression along the dorsal midline, making it relatively easy to locate once you become familiar with the animal's anatomy.

Why Is Bai Hui Important?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Bai Hui is known as the "Point of 100 Meetings," a name that reflects its significance within the energetic system of the body. It is traditionally associated with calming the spirit, supporting awareness, and helping promote energetic balance.

Many animal caregivers notice that gentle stimulation of Bai Hui encourages relaxation and a sense of comfort. Because of its location and energetic properties, it is frequently included in wellness-focused acupressure sessions for dogs, horses, and cats.

One of the fascinating aspects of animal acupressure is the way ancient practitioners observed differences between species. When asked why Bai Hui is located on the sacrum in animals rather than at the top of the head, a respected Chinese professor offered an interesting explanation. Since horses, dogs, and cats spend much of their time eating with their heads lowered, the sacrum becomes the highest point of the body—the point closest to heaven. While this explanation is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy, it provides a memorable way to understand the unique location of Bai Hui in animals.

How to Stimulate Bai Hui

The good news is that most dogs enjoy stimulation of this point.

A gentle scratch or light acupressure touch is often all that is needed. Many dogs respond positively and may visibly relax during stimulation. Horses also tend to enjoy work on Bai Hui, and many cats appreciate it as well, although feline preferences can vary considerably.

As with any acupressure technique, observe your animal's response and work within their comfort level. Relaxed breathing, soft eyes, stretching, licking, chewing, or settling into a comfortable position are common signs that the animal is enjoying the session.

A Valuable Point for Every Animal Caregiver

Whether you are just beginning to explore animal acupressure or have years of experience, Bai Hui remains one of the most useful and versatile acupoints to know. Its ease of location, gentle application, and traditional association with calming and balance make it a favorite among animal caregivers around the world.

For more than 30 years, Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources has helped horse owners, dog owners, cat caregivers, and animal health professionals learn practical ways to apply Traditional Chinese Medicine principles to support animal wellness. Bai Hui continues to be one of the foundational points introduced to students because of its accessibility and broad application within animal acupressure practice.

Where is the Bai Hui on a Human's? Where is it on Animals? . . Watch to find out: