Vestibular Disease in Dogs: What It Is and How to Help

Ever seen a dog wobble, tilt its head, or seem confused about which way is up? That’s often vestibular disease, a sudden balance problem that can scare any pet owner. The good news is most cases improve with time and proper care. Here’s a quick guide to recognize the signs, understand the triggers, and give your dog the support it needs.

Typical Signs You Can't Ignore

Vestibular disease shows up fast. Look for these symptoms:

• Head tilt: The dog’s head leans to one side and won’t straighten.
• Loss of balance: Stumbling, circling, or falling over for no obvious reason.
• Nystagmus: The eyes move rapidly, either side‑to‑side or up‑and‑down.
• Nausea or vomiting: The inner ear controls both balance and motion sickness.
• Ear or facial droop: Might look like a facial nerve issue.

If your dog shows several of these signs, treat it like an emergency. Call your vet right away – they’ll want to rule out infections, strokes, or tumors that need different treatment.

Why It Happens and What You Can Do

Most often the cause is “idiopathic,” meaning doctors don’t find a clear reason. Age plays a part; older dogs get it more often. Ear infections, head trauma, or sudden changes in blood pressure can also trigger the problem.

At home, keep your pup safe:

• Block off stairs and slippery floors.
• Use a soft, non‑slip mat where it rests.
• Provide a low‑height bed so it can get up without jumping.
• Offer water in a shallow dish to prevent spills.

Your vet may prescribe anti‑nausea meds, steroids, or antibiotics if an infection is suspected. In many cases, the condition fades in a week or two, but the recovery can be shaky. Gentle physiotherapy – short, supervised walks and balance exercises – helps rebuild confidence.

Keep a diary of the symptoms: when they started, how they changed, and any triggers you notice. This record speeds up the vet’s assessment and shows whether the disease is truly improving.

While waiting for the vet, avoid giving human medication. Even a tiny dose of ibuprofen or aspirin can hurt a dog’s stomach and make the problem worse.

Most owners worry that the condition is permanent. In reality, about 80 % of dogs recover fully. The key is early vet contact, a safe environment, and patience while the inner ear heals.

So the next time your dog seems dizzy, remember the checklist above, call your vet, and make the home space as stable as possible. With the right steps, your companion will be back to chasing balls and wagging its tail sooner than you think.