Recognizing Stroke Symptoms In Dogs: What To Watch For

Dogs can have strokes, and while they are less common than in humans, they can be serious and always require immediate veterinary care. The symptoms of a stroke in dogs are often sudden and vary depending on which area of the brain is affected.

Some signs of a stroke in dogs include:

- Loss of balance or coordination

- Head tilting or walking in circles

- Abnormal eye movements

- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body

- Difficulty walking or standing

- Loss of bladder or bowel control

- Confusion or disorientation

- Abrupt changes in behaviour

- Nausea or vomiting

- Inability to breathe

- Extreme tiredness

Loss of bladder control

Strokes in dogs can be difficult to spot, but they are considered a medical emergency. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, contact your vet immediately.

Other symptoms of stroke in dogs include:

• Loss of balance or coordination
• Head tilting or walking in circles
• Abnormal eye movements
• Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Confusion or disorientation
• Abrupt changes in behavior
• Vomiting, gasping, or diarrhea
• Heart arrhythmia or an inability to breathe

Inability to breathe

The symptoms of a stroke in dogs can vary and may also be consistent with a canine stomach upset. However, the duration and intensity of stroke symptoms are typically far greater than those of a stomach upset. For example, a dog experiencing a stroke may constantly dry heave and seem unable to stop.

If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary advice. Time is of the essence, and prompt treatment improves the chances of recovery.

Loss of balance

A loss of balance is one of the most common signs that your dog is having a stroke. Dogs who are having a stroke may be unable to stand, lean to one side, or seek out a wall or person to lean on. This occurs because a stroke affects your dog's brain, impairing their ability to remain upright.

Strokes in dogs occur when there is a loss of blood flow to portions of the brain. They can be caused by blood vessel blockages (ischemic strokes) or bleeds (hemorrhagic strokes). Unseen blood clots, tumours, bacteria, parasites, ruptures, and clotting disorders can all be contributors.

If you notice your dog losing their balance, it is important to get them to the vet immediately. The faster you see a vet, the better. Your vet will be able to perform a series of tests to rule out other health issues that can cause similar symptoms, such as vertigo, kidney failure, an inner ear infection, a brain tumour, or a seizure. An MRI scan is the best way to diagnose a stroke.

While strokes in dogs can be serious and always require immediate veterinary care, they are not always fatal. The prognosis for dogs that have suffered a stroke depends on the severity of the stroke, the presence of any underlying health conditions, and how quickly treatment is started. Some dogs may experience a full recovery, while others may have residual neurological deficits.

Abnormal eye movements

Nystagmus is the medical term for rapid and uncontrollable eye movements in dogs. It is a symptom of an underlying problem with the vestibular system, which controls balance. While nystagmus is not a disease in itself, it can be a sign of a serious condition such as a stroke.

The eyes may move up and down, side to side, or in a circular motion. The movement can be slow or fast and usually occurs in both eyes. Dogs with nystagmus may also exhibit other symptoms, such as loss of balance, head tilt, vomiting, walking in circles, disorientation, and decreased activity.

If your dog suddenly starts showing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They will perform a thorough examination and may recommend further tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, radiographs, or a blood pressure reading, to determine the underlying cause.

Nystagmus can be caused by various issues, including middle or inner ear infections, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), inflammatory and viral infections such as canine distemper, or a stroke. It is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Extreme tiredness

Strokes in dogs can be difficult to spot and can happen without warning. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, get them to the vet immediately.

Frequently asked questions