What it is
A rel=canonical only counts in the head. If it is injected into the body, often by a script, Google ignores it and the page behaves as if it has no canonical. rel=canonical placed outside the head. Only head canonicals are honoured; a body one is ignored, so consolidation silently fails.
Why does canonical in <body> matter for AI search?
Only head canonicals are honoured; a body one is ignored, so consolidation silently fails.
How do you fix it?
Move it into <head>.
How do you find it on your site?
- View source and confirm the canonical sits inside the head.
- If it is in the body, treat it as ineffective.
- Find the component or script injecting it in the wrong place.
- Move it into the head, ideally server-rendered.
Which ranking and citation factors does it touch?
An ignored canonical means no consolidation, so duplicate signals stay split until it is placed correctly.
What is the impact?
Medium-high; silent failure. Direct.
What is the evidence?
Canonical must be in the head. Google Search Central, Consolidate duplicate URLs (canonicalization)
Sources
Frequently asked questions about canonical in <body>
What does "Canonical in <body>" mean?
rel=canonical placed outside the head.
How do you fix canonical in <body>?
Move it into <head>.