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Vertigo in Dogs
Written By Joe Holyoake
Published: 04/19/2017Updated: 03/13/2024
Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
What is Vertigo?
You may not be familiar with the vestibular system that lies in the inner ear of most mammals, but it performs essential tasks when it comes to balance and spatial awareness.
Like humans, your dog also relies on this intricate system and they suffer when it goes wrong, too — the main disorder relating to this part of the body is vertigo, often referred to as vestibular disease.
In this one-stop summary of vertigo in dogs, you’ll learn:

  • The difference between peripheral and central vertigo
  • Symptoms of vestibular disease in dogs include depression, head tilting and falling
  • Ear infections can cause vertigo
  • Treatment for vertigo includes antibiotics – and even surgery in serious cases of central vertigo

What is Vertigo in Dogs?
The vestibular system is responsible for a dog’s sense of balance and when this is disrupted, you’ll notice your pet acting in a disorientated manner. Diseases affecting either the brain or the inner structure of the ear can be responsible for the development of the disorder.
The good news is vertigo is short-lived and relatively benign in most cases. However, if the central nervous system is affected, it can be a lot worse.
Although often easily treatable, vertigo can also be a symptom of a more life-threatening condition — having a comprehensive pet insurance policy will keep you and your dog covered in the worst-case scenario.
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Symptoms of Vertigo in Dogs
“My dog is acting drunk and wobbly suddenly” — this is a complaint that many vets will have heard before and they might lean towards a diagnosis of vertigo in dogs.
Not only can dogs get vertigo, but many of the symptoms observed are similar to those of humans with the condition. These include:

Different Types of Vertigo in Dogs
There are two different parts of the vestibular system and the type of vertigo depends on which is affected:

  • Peripheral — The peripheral portion of the vestibular system is located in a dog’s ear and can become compromised by infections, abnormal growths or adverse reactions to certain medications. This is the most common kind of vertigo and the one that’s more easily curable.
  • Central — Vertigo can also be caused by a compromised central nervous system and it can be a symptom of brain tumorsbleeding in the brain or inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Compared to the peripheral variety, central vertigo can be harder to both treat and prevent from arising in the first place.
Causes of Vertigo in Dogs
There are many potential causes of vertigo in dogs, but one of the most commonly observed is ear infections, either in the inner or middle ear. Not only are these quite easily treatable, but there are preventative measures parents can carry out to prevent them from happening in the first place.
In addition to ear infections, peripheral vestibular disease can be caused by:
The causes of central vertigo are usually different and are often more severe in nature:
  • Bleeding in the brain
  • Brain tumor
  • Fungal infections of the brain stem
  • Infection or inflammatory disease
Another factor that can’t be discounted is age — older dogs are more likely to suffer from vertigo, which is why it’s sometimes referred to as ‘old dog vestibular disease’. 
Sometimes, this is due to the weakened immune system, which makes infections, bleeds and tumors more likely to develop. On other occasions, old dog vertigo will appear for seemingly no reason at all.

How to Prevent Vertigo in Dogs
Nobody wants a dizzy dog, so fortunately there are some things pet parents can do to lower the likelihood of vertigo.
The first step is regularly checking your dog’s ears, looking out for discharge and swelling, as well as keeping a nose out for any peculiar odors. If all looks OK, this should be followed by cleaning — to do this, dab and wash them with a damp cloth.
It’s also important to dry your dog’s ears after a bath or swimming session. Bacteria and fungi thrive in wet environments, so taking a towel to them and gently dabbing away at any liquid can really help to prevent ear infections from developing.
Although it’s impossible to completely prevent injuries from happening, parents can at least make the home environment safer where possible. Look out for sharp objects, such as table edges, at your dog’s head level and consider moving them out of harm’s way or covering them with soft padding.
Likewise, It could also be worth keeping your dog on an extendable lead when on walks to prevent them from running into potentially harmful objects, such as barbed wire.
Lastly, a healthy lifestyle can keep your dog’s immune system strong, healthy and a lot more capable of fending off potential infections and illnesses. This means regular exercise and a diet packed full of protein and nutrients — our partner Dog Food Advisor has plenty of options when it comes to meals that do a dog’s body good.
Diagnosis of Vertigo in Dogs
If you spot any of the symptoms listed above in your dog, you should contact your vet for an appointment. While vertigo is often largely harmless, it can also sometimes be an indicator of a more worrying medical condition.
Your visit to the vet is likely to start with a general physical examination with a particular focus on the ear. They will also likely carry out neurological tests to try and clarify the origin of the disorder.

A complete history of your dog will also be requested as certain medications and some allergic reactions can mimic the symptoms of vestibular disease.
If the condition is suspected to have central nervous system involvement, an MRI or CT scan may be performed. X-rays can also help to determine if there are any issues with the bony structures in the ear that may be affecting the animal.

Standard blood tests, such as a biochemical profile and complete blood count, can also help to expose any infections or imbalances that may be contributing to the problem.
Treatment of Vertigo in Dogs
Effective dog vertigo treatment depends on the underlying cause. An ear infection can usually be cured with a course of antibiotics, but a more serious reason, such as a tumor or abnormal growths, might require surgical intervention.
In the meantime, vets should give medication to treat the worst symptoms of vertigo, such as anti-nausea drugs or intravenous fluids.

They will also give advice on how to comfort a dog with vertigo at home — this includes creating a peaceful environment in which they can recover and ensuring food and water are within easy reach.

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Recovery of Vertigo in Dogs
Can vestibular disease kill a dog? It’s extremely unlikely. Most dogs with vertigo make a full recovery, but the prognosis ultimately depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
If an ear infection is the reason behind the condition, your dog could be back to their normal self in just a couple of weeks once the antibiotics have worked their magic. If an operation is required, your dog may need many months before they’re fully recovered.
It’s important to regularly check dogs for signs of illness or infection — a wellness plan ensures this is done by the capable hands of a vet who will be able to offer professional guidance on the next steps necessary
Vertigo Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Golden Retriever
Fourteen Years

29 found this helpful

29 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Vertigo
My dog has been diagnosed with vertigo for the second time this year. She was prescribed antibiotics and is recovering. Are there any homeopathic treatments to cure or prevent this from happening?
Sept. 29, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
29 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. Whether there are any treatments depends on the source of the problem, really. Some dogs have what's called geriatric vestibular disease, and sometimes an anti-nausea medication will help with that. If there is another reason for the vertigo, there may be other treatments. Since I don't know more about your dog or what is causing the problem, I think it would be best to ask your veterinarian is there any prevention or treatments that you could consider. I hope that all goes well with your dog.
Sept. 29, 2020
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Pitbull
Two Years

0 found this helpful

0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Dizziness
I have a pitbull and since 1 week ago it has dizziness we dont have good doctors here we want to know what medicene we should use for it. No vomitting. No head tilting. It is a normal dog. But since a week ago it began you stumbling sometimes and sometimes fall down.
Sept. 25, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails. With out seeing your dog, I do not know why this might be happening. It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 20, 2020
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Jindo
Thirteen Years

0 found this helpful

0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Tilt
Will my dogs head keep tilting after medication?
Aug. 7, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, without knowing what medication or what was wrong with your dog, it is hard for me to say if the head tilt will remain. There are many causes for head tilts, including ear infections, vestibular disease, or Strokes, so the best thing to do would probably be to call your veterinarian and ask if they expect a recovery or not. I hope that all goes well for your dog.
Aug. 7, 2020
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Chihuahua
Thirteen Years

10 found this helpful

10 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Showing Vertigo Symptoms
Hi, I noticed my dog showing unusual behavior up during our afternoon walk a few days ago. She froze up mid walk, fell over head first. After picking her up i noticed her head tilting forward and she took a few minutes to regain herself after took her back inside. She is prescribed lasix which I know is a diuretic, and after looking up side effects of the medication, I thought she may have low electrolytes. I have been giving her homemade electrolyte water at home ever since and she does show signs of improvement but I notice she seems dizzy sometimes, which led me here.
July 29, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
10 Recommendations
Thank you for your question Lasix can cause potassium to be depleted from the system, which can result in neurologic or muscular problems. If she has been on that medication for a while, having her electrolytes check with your veterinarian would be a good idea. They will also be able to examine her to make sure that nothing else is going on. I hope that all goes well for her.
July 29, 2020
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Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Seven Years

4 found this helpful

4 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Sudden Onset Head Droop, Tail Droop, Staggering Gait Tending To A Circe. Will Respond To Me By Looking At Me. No Nystagmus, Vomiting, Diarrhea. Lasts About 5 Minutes, Then Normal. No Obvious Post-Ictal State. May Occur Daily Or Once A Month.
I question vertigo, the vet, after watching a video, didn’t know. Suggested trial of Keppra. I’m a neurologist and it doesn’t look like a seizure to me.
July 10, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
4 Recommendations
Hello, YOur dog may have vertigo and this may not be a seizure. Did your vet discuss CT with you or a referral to a veterinary neurologist? They can run the more advanced test than a normal vet can to figure out what is causing these issues. I hope your dog starts to improve soon.
July 10, 2020
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Standard Poodle
Tucker
16 Years

0 found this helpful

0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Loss Of Balance, Head Tilt
September of 2019, Tucker had his first episode of vestibular disease. We thought he'd had a stroke and would have to be euthanized, but a trip to the ER Vet gave us the vestibular diagnosis. They gave him a shot of anti-naseau drug and one anti-naseau pill, and said give it a couple of days. In that time he bounced back, but within a couple of days after that, had another episode - fortunately short-lived. Tucker will be 16 in April - so he's no spring chicken and we chose not to put him through a bunch of costly neurological tests. He had an episode 1-2 months after the initial bout - but it started in the morning and by the end of day, was fine. Currently, he is experiencing another episode - this one worse and lasting since early Saturday a.m. I picked up anti-naseau medication from my vet - but he is eating and drinking. His balance is awful though with a severe head tilt. I am able to take him outside, using a harness to help hold him up when he stumbles, and he is urinating and defecating. My question is, is it common for these episodes to reoccur or is this an odd case? And is there anything I can get from my vet to help with the dizziness?
Mastiff
Max
4 Days

0 found this helpful

0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Tilt
Loss Of Balance
Red Eye
Spinning In Circles
Not Moving
Started with chronic ear infections. Then was diagnosed with megaesophagus and aspiration pneumonia and hospitalized for a week. Recovered now after 3 months of antibiotic and anti nausea meds. Started losing balance a week or so ago, got home from work and he was spinning in a tight circle and collapsed. Rushed to vet who advised I go see a neurologist after initial review. Neurologist stated signs all point to vestibular/vertigo, continued on antibiotics and steroids now for a week and has gotten so much worse. Used to be able to walk outside with help/support, but can barely get off floor without falling over. Saving grace is that he eats and drinks by hand feeding. Dictor said he may need surgery which requires a MRI to verify infection or tumor. Devastated because we just spent $8k battling the megaesophagus and have no way of paying for this if he doesnt get better. Did anyone else's dog get worse before they got better?
Labrador Retriever
Bella
12 Years

1 found this helpful

1 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Shaking
Circling
Poor Appetite
Anxiety
Falling Over
Eye Twitch
I thought she was going to die. Every time she tried to stand up, she’d immediately fall down. She was drooling like I’d never seen before. I could tell she was panicking by the look in her eyes. I thought she had eaten something it was bitten. I raced her to the vet and found out about dog vertigo. I was relieved to find out it’s not as serious as it looks. We are on day 2 and she’s able to stand longer and go potty on her own. I just wish I could get her to eat something other than “cookies” and I’m hoping she improves in the morning.
Shih Tzu
Gizmo
14 Years

1 found this helpful

1 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Shaking Head
Walking In Circles
Uncoordinated
Unbalanced
Trouble See
My dog was perfectly healthy until about 2 months ago, i found him outside flaying his limbs, blood shot eye, drooling, & panting. Doctors say it wasnt a seizure. Something was wrong with his balance. He finally came back home, bed ridden, & diagnosed w/ inner ear infection or stroke or brain tumor. Since then, he has improved a lot, but still loses balance, he can see but not well, it’s mainly a lack of depth perception & his pupils still don’t react to light. Why since this episode, he’s having neurological problems? He was perfectly fine. Neurologist ruled out brain tumor bc of his improvement but another vet thinks it’s a tumor. Im so scared for my baby, I want him back to normal. If he had a stroke should he have already recovered? He’s been taking antibiotics for the possible ear infection. What’s your opinion on this?
Chihuahua
Chiquita
3 Years

0 found this helpful

0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Tired
Always Walking In Circles
Walking In Circles, Loss Of Apetite
Suspect Trouble Seeing
My grandmother owns a dog named Chiquita. She resides in Mexico so you cant get veterinary treatment easily unless you drive out of town. According to my grandmas description. Chiquita doesnt want to drink any water but she will eat milk soaked dog food. She will spend most of her day spinning in circles. My grandma thinks she might not be able to see very well or hear either. She isnt very coordinated anymore. I got her when she was 2 Months old and gave her to my grandma when she was 6 months old. She hasnt had any problems before.. what are a few home remedies my grandmother can try before going in to the vet. This has been happening about 3-4 weeks
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