Defining and Understanding Vestibular Disease in Dogs
What Is It?
Vestibular Disease affects the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. When this system is disrupted, dogs may suddenly lose their balance, tilt their head, or circle. Vestibular signs may result from inner ear infections, inflammation, trauma, tumors, or age-related “idiopathic” changes.
Who Gets It?
- Any breed or age can be affected.
- Senior dogs often experience “idiopathic” vestibular episodes.
- Dogs with chronic ear infections may be at increased risk.
- Rarely, vestibular signs may be linked to tumors or systemic disease.
Early Signs Owners May Notice
- Sudden loss of balance or falling to one side.
- Head tilt (often to one side).
- Circling or rolling.
- Nystagmus (rapid, darting eye movements).
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulty standing or walking without support.
How It Progresses
Vestibular signs usually appear suddenly. In idiopathic cases, symptoms may improve significantly within days and continue to resolve over several weeks. In other cases, progression depends on the underlying cause.
How Is It Diagnosed?
A veterinarian will perform an examination to rule out ear infections, neurologic disease, or systemic illness. Referral to a veterinary neurologist may be recommended for advanced cases to determine if further testing is needed.
The Importance of Specialist Referral
If vestibular signs are severe, persistent, or recurrent, a veterinary neurologist can provide advanced evaluation. Specialists can identify whether the cause is inner ear (peripheral) or brain-related (central), which affects treatment and prognosis. A Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) may also help with safe mobility retraining.
Is There a Cure?
Vestibular Disease itself is not always “curable,” as it depends on the cause. Idiopathic cases often improve with supportive care and time. Cases caused by infection, inflammation, or tumors require veterinary treatment directed at the underlying issue.
Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation
- Balance retraining: Helps dogs regain coordination and stability.
- Strength preservation: Prevents muscle loss during recovery.
- Confidence building: Reduces anxiety as dogs relearn movement.
- Fall prevention: Reduces risk of secondary injuries at home.
How to Help Your Dog
- Veterinary evaluation first: Any sudden balance changes require prompt vet attention.
- Rehabilitation with a CCRP: Gentle exercises help retrain balance and prevent falls.
- Assistive support: Use slings or harnesses to help dogs walk safely.
- Home adjustments: Provide rugs, block stairs, and create safe walking paths.
- Nausea management: Work with your vet to address motion sickness.
- Patience and support: Most dogs adapt and recover confidence with time.
Owner Do & Don’t List
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| See your veterinarian promptly for sudden balance issues | Assume your dog is “just dizzy” and wait it out |
| Support your dog with a sling or harness when walking | Let your dog navigate stairs or slippery floors alone |
| Provide traction mats and block access to hazards | Allow free access to stairs or cluttered areas |
| Follow CCRP-guided rehab for safe balance retraining | Force exercise or uncontrolled movement |
| Keep a calm, quiet environment during recovery | Overstimulate with loud noise or rough play |
Prognosis
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause. Idiopathic Vestibular Disease often improves dramatically within weeks, with many dogs making near-complete recoveries. Cases linked to infection or inflammation can also recover well with treatment. Prognosis is more guarded if symptoms are caused by tumors or central brain disease, but rehabilitation and supportive care can still improve quality of life.