Vestibular Disease in Dogs (Old Dog Syndrome): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Care

by Glenn ParkesLast Updated January 29, 2025

Old Dog Syndrome Vestibular Disease in Dogs

Vestibular disease in dogs, often referred to as "old dog syndrome," can be alarming for pet owners. This condition affects balance and coordination, causing symptoms that may seem severe but are often manageable.

Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and knowing the available treatments can help dog owners provide the best possible care.

What is Vestibular Disease in Dogs?

The vestibular system controls a dog's sense of balance and spatial orientation. It includes structures within the inner ear and brain. When something disrupts this system, a dog may experience dizziness, difficulty walking, and involuntary eye movements.

Vestibular disease can be either central (originating in the brain) or peripheral (affecting the inner ear and nerves). Peripheral vestibular disease is more common and usually less severe, whereas central vestibular disease may indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Causes of Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease can have multiple causes. While the exact cause isn’t always identifiable, some common triggers include:

1. Idiopathic Vestibular Disease

This form is common in older dogs and has no identifiable cause. It often appears suddenly and resolves on its own within a few weeks. Idiopathic vestibular disease is also called "old dog vestibular syndrome."

2. Ear Infections

Middle or inner ear infections can lead to inflammation that disrupts the vestibular system. If left untreated, these infections can become chronic and cause long-term balance issues.

3. Ototoxic Medications

Certain drugs can harm the inner ear and vestibular structures, leading to symptoms of dizziness and imbalance. These medications include some antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs.

4. Head Trauma or Injury

Physical injuries to the head or neck can impact the vestibular system, causing dizziness and disorientation.

5. Brain Tumors

Tumors affecting the brainstem or inner ear structures can interfere with balance and coordination, often leading to persistent vestibular symptoms.

6. Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid gland can contribute to neurological problems, including vestibular dysfunction. A blood test can determine if thyroid imbalance is a factor.

Symptoms of Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease can cause a sudden onset of symptoms, including:

Head tilt – The dog tilts its head to one side.
Loss of balance – Stumbling, falling, or difficulty standing.
Nystagmus – Rapid, involuntary eye movements (side-to-side or up-and-down).
Circling – Walking in circles, usually in one direction.
Nausea or vomiting – Due to dizziness and disorientation.
Disorientation – Appearing confused or dazed.
Difficulty eating or drinking – Struggling to coordinate movements.

Diagnosing Vestibular Disease

If a dog shows signs of vestibular disease, a veterinarian will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

The veterinarian will review the dog's medical history and check for ear infections, injuries, or other potential causes.

2. Neurological Assessment

A neurological exam helps determine if the problem is peripheral (ear-related) or central (brain-related).

3. Ear Examination

A detailed ear exam may include an otoscope to check for infections, inflammation, or foreign objects in the ear canal.

4. Blood Tests

Bloodwork can help identify underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism or infection.

5. Imaging (X-rays, CT Scans, or MRI)

Advanced imaging may be necessary if a brain tumor, stroke, or serious neurological disorder is suspected.

Treatment Options for Vestibular Disease

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, supportive care is the primary approach.

1. Supportive Care

Most cases of idiopathic vestibular disease improve with time. Supportive care includes:

Ensuring hydration and proper nutrition.
Providing a safe, quiet environment.
Assisting with mobility if needed.

2. Medications

Medications may be prescribed to relieve symptoms or treat underlying conditions:

Antibiotics – For bacterial ear infections.
Anti-nausea drugs – To reduce vomiting and dizziness.
Pain relief – If discomfort is present.
Thyroid supplements – If hypothyroidism is diagnosed.

3. Surgery

In cases where tumors or severe infections are responsible, surgery may be necessary.

Home Care and Management

Caring for a dog with vestibular disease requires patience and adjustments to their daily routine. Owners can take the following steps to improve their dog's quality of life:

1. Modify the Living Space

Restrict access to stairs to prevent falls.
Remove obstacles that could cause tripping.
Use rugs or non-slip mats for better traction.

2. Provide Mobility Support

Dogs recovering from vestibular disease often struggle with balance and coordination. Providing mobility support can help them regain confidence and prevent injuries. Two effective tools for this are dog wheelchairs and support harnesses.

Dog Wheelchairs

A custom-built dog wheelchair, like those from K9 Carts, can provide stability and support for dogs with ongoing balance issues. These wheelchairs allow dogs to stay mobile while reducing the risk of falls. Benefits include:

Encouraging Movement – Dogs can continue to exercise without fear of tipping over.
Reducing Strain on Limbs – A wheelchair supports the back or front legs, depending on the dog’s needs.
Improving Mental Well-being – Continued mobility helps prevent anxiety and depression caused by restricted movement.
Custom Fit – Adjustable designs ensure comfort and proper posture.

Support Harnesses

For dogs who retain some mobility but need extra stability, a lifting support harness is an excellent option. Harnesses wrap around the torso and provide handles for owners to assist their dogs. Advantages include:

Helping with Stairs and Uneven Surfaces – Owners can guide their dog up or down steps safely.
Reducing Pressure on Joints – Especially useful for senior dogs with arthritis.
Providing Stability During Walks – Allows dogs to stay active without falling.
Assisting with Bathroom Needs – Owners can support the dog in a comfortable position when relieving themselves.

By using a dog wheelchair or harness, owners can ensure their pets stay active and safe while recovering from vestibular disease.

A dog wheelchair can help dogs regain movement and stability.
A harness or sling can assist with walking.
Encourage movement in a controlled environment to prevent stiffness.

3. Assist with Eating and Drinking

Use raised food and water bowls to make mealtime easier.
Hand-feed if necessary to ensure proper nutrition.

4. Maintain Hygiene and Comfort

Keep the dog clean and dry, especially if they struggle to move.
Provide a comfortable, quiet resting area.

Prognosis and Recovery

Most dogs with vestibular disease improve within a few days to weeks. Some may have a lingering head tilt or mild balance issues, but these usually do not affect their overall quality of life. If symptoms persist or worsen, further testing may be required to rule out more serious conditions.

Helping Dogs Stay Active During Recovery

Some dogs may struggle with mobility even after recovering from vestibular disease. Custom-built dog wheelchairs, such as those from K9 Carts, can provide the necessary support for dogs with lingering balance issues. These wheelchairs allow dogs to maintain an active lifestyle while ensuring safety and comfort.

Providing proper care, patience, and mobility support can help dogs with vestibular disease regain confidence and enjoy a high quality of life.

References

Author

Glenn Parkes

Glenn, our General Manager at K9 Carts, brings over two decades of experience in mobility solutions for pets. With his expertise and passion for improving the lives of our furry companions, Glenn ensures that every product meets the highest standards of quality and functionality.

Back to Resources