Do Dogs Get Dizzy? A Look at Vertigo in Dogs

Dogs can get dizzy for a number of reasons, including inner ear problems, neurological issues, motion sickness, and old age. While the occasional dizzy spell may not be a cause for concern, if your dog is dizzy all the time or if their dizziness is severe, it could be a sign of a more serious problem that needs to be addressed by a vet. Signs of dizziness in dogs can include head tilting, circling, loss of balance, and nausea, so it's important for dog owners to be aware of these symptoms.

In this article, we will review the scientific literature on dizziness and vertigo in dogs, covering the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments. By looking at research in the fields of veterinary medicine, neurology, and animal behavior, we hope to offer a well-rounded view of this mysterious issue. Whether you're a dog lover or just interested in learning more about dogs and their health, this article will help you better understand the causes of dizziness in our canine friends.

Vestibular Disease: The Most Common Cause of Dizziness in Dogs

Vestibular disease is a condition that impacts a dog's balance and spatial orientation, which can result in dizziness and loss of balance. The vestibular system, which is located in the inner ear and the brain, is responsible for maintaining normal balance. When the vestibular system doesn't work properly, it can lead to a sudden loss of balance, disorientation, head tilt, and abnormal, jerking eye movements known as nystagmus.

Vestibular disease can be idiopathic, which means there is no known cause, or it can be caused by a number of underlying issues. Some of the potential causes of vestibular disease include middle or inner ear infections, trauma, tumors, hypothyroidism, and certain medications that are toxic to the ear. Although vestibular disease can impact dogs of any age, some breeds, such as German shepherds and Doberman pinschers, may be more susceptible to the disease.

Vestibular disease is diagnosed through a combination of a complete medical history, clinical signs, and diagnostic tests, such as an otoscopic ear exam to check the ear canals and eardrums. Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests, X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and BAER (brainstem auditory evoked response) testing to assess inner ear function. An early and accurate diagnosis is important so that the underlying cause can be identified and the appropriate treatment can be administered.

Vertigo in Dogs: What to Look For

Vertigo is a type of dizziness that causes a spinning feeling and a loss of balance in dogs. PetPartners Pet Insurance lists some of the most common symptoms of vertigo in dogs as head tilting, loss of balance, circling, abnormal eye movements, and a lack of interest in food and water. Vertigo can be caused by peripheral vestibular disease, which is a problem with the inner or middle ear, or central vestibular disease, which is a problem with the skull or brain.

PetMD explains that peripheral vestibular disease is more frequently diagnosed and has a better chance of recovery than central vestibular disease. However, no matter which type of vestibular disease is causing the symptoms, it's important to see a vet to make sure that other potential causes are ruled out and to get a proper diagnosis.

How to Help a Dog With Vestibular Disease: Home Remedies and Supportive Care

If your dog has vestibular disease or is experiencing dizziness, there are a number of home remedies and supportive care options that can help your pet get better. According to The Wildest, it's important to make sure your dog has a safe and comfortable place to rest and to keep them away from stairs and other potential hazards that could lead to a fall. The American Kennel Club also notes that anti-nausea drugs prescribed by your vet can help with symptoms like vomiting and a lack of appetite.

In addition, you can help your dog by supporting them as they go to the bathroom and even hand-feeding them to make sure they're getting enough nutrition and hydration. Dr. Dobias of Dr. Dobias Natural Healing explains that you may also want to talk to your vet or a holistic practitioner about using homeopathic remedies or supplements to help your dog recover.

How to Avoid and Treat Dizziness in Dogs

Although some cases of vestibular disease are idiopathic or age-related, there are some things you can do to avoid dizziness and balance issues in dogs. The Rock Hill Veterinary Neurologist says that keeping your dog's ears clean and checking them regularly can help avoid ear-related causes of vestibular disease. In addition, making sure your home is free of obstacles and other things that can cause accidents can help you avoid injuries that lead to dizziness, too. (Wag!)

It's also important to watch for signs of neurological or central nervous system problems in your dog, especially as they age, so that you can get them the help they need as soon as possible. Making sure your dog has a healthy diet and gets plenty of exercise can also help you avoid dizziness. By being proactive about taking care of your dog's ears, home, and overall health, you can avoid and treat dizziness in your dog.

Rehabilitation and Recovery: How to Help Your Dog Get Their Balance Back

While most dogs will recover from vestibular disease or vertigo within a few weeks, some may have residual or permanent symptoms. According to TheK9PT, canine rehabilitation and physical therapy exercises can help with recovery and getting dogs back to a place of balance and mobility.

A veterinary rehabilitation specialist can recommend exercises and activities, including but not limited to balance exercises, strength training, and controlled walking. wikiHow also notes that supportive care, including help with feeding and drinking, is important during the recovery period. It's also important to be patient and consistent, as it may take time for your dog to recover and some dogs may need long-term management and care.

Conclusion: Understanding and Managing Dizziness in Dogs

The causes of dizziness and vertigo in dogs are many and can include everything from inner ear disorders and neurological problems to motion sickness and old age. That said, recognizing the signs and symptoms of dizziness, which can include head tilting, circling, and loss of balance, is important so that you can get your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

While some cases of vestibular disease may resolve on their own, it's important to make sure that any underlying causes are diagnosed and treated to prevent complications. That said, many dogs can recover from dizziness with the right supportive care, home treatments, and rehabilitation exercises and go on to lead normal lives.

By learning about the causes of dizziness and vertigo in dogs and taking steps to prevent them, dog owners can help ensure that their pets live long, happy, and healthy lives.