Spinning elderly dog: Possible causes and what to do

Many dogs turn around before lying down or going potty. This is normal behavior, inherited from their ancestors.

But when an elderly dog starts spinning in circles non-stop, or seems disoriented, this can be a warning sign.

This behavior can be related to balance problems, pain, anxiety or even neurological diseases.

When is it normal for a dog to spin in circles?

There are situations in which spinning is part of a dog's natural behavior:

• Before going to bed: many dogs turn around to "make their bed" and feel safe.
  
• Before going potty: some spin around to choose the right place or even to orient themselves to their surroundings.
  

In these cases, the spinning is quick and the dog returns to normal soon afterwards. When the dog spins excessively, seems lost or can't stop, it's time to investigate.

Why is the old dog spinning?

When an elderly dog starts spinning around in circles frequently and for no apparent reason, this could be related to different health conditions that affect balance, cognition or other algerations in the nervous system. 

Cognitive dysfunction

One of the most common causes is canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, also known as "dog Alzheimer's". In this case, the animal may show disorientation, changes in their sleep cycle and difficulty recognizing places or people, causing them to walk around in circles as if they were lost.

Vestibular syndrome

Another possibility is vestibular syndrome, a disorder that affects the inner ear or brain and compromises balance. The dog tends to turn to one side, tilt its head and may even experience nausea or frequent falls. This condition is more common in elderly dogs and is often linked to ear infections or inflammatory processes.

Brain tumors

In more serious cases, the spinning behavior can be associated with brain tumors or other neurological events, such as stroke, which is uncommon in dogs. In these situations, the spinning is usually accompanied by other signs, such as convulsions, changes in vision, weakness or sudden changes in behavior.

Temporary disorientation

Finally, it's important to bear in mind that elderly dogs can experience temporary disorientation caused by pain, anxiety or loss of senses such as sight and hearing. When they can't interpret their surroundings well, they may walk in circles as a way of locating themselves or relieving discomfort.

In all these cases, veterinary care is essential to identify the correct cause and start the appropriate treatment.

Dog crooked to one side: balance problem

If your dog is spinning and keeping his head tilted to one side, it could be called vestibular syndrome - an alteration in the system that controls balance.

This condition is common in elderly dogs and can be linked to:

• Ear infection (otitis interna).
  
• Inflammation in the ear.
  
• Neurological changes.
  

Other signs that may appear:

• Frequent falls.
  
• Nausea or vomiting due to dizziness.
  
• Difficulty walking in a straight line.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet as soon as possible. Treating otitis often improves the condition considerably. In the meantime, keep your dog in a safe place to avoid falls.

Disoriented elderly dog: canine dementia

Just like people, elderly dogs can suffer from cognitive decline.
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is the equivalent of Alzheimer's in humans.

The most common signs are

• The dog walks aimlessly or in circles in the house.
  
• He reverses his sleep cycle: he sleeps during the day and gets restless at dawn.
  
• They forget where to go.
  
• Stares at the wall or gets stuck in corners of the house.
  

There is no cure for this problem, but there are ways to help:

• Diets and supplements rich in antioxidants.
  
• Medicines that help improve brain function.
  
• Predictable routine of walks and meals.
  
• Adaptations to the house (lighting at night, safe environments).

Restless dog out of nowhere

It's common for owners to report: "my dog became agitated out of the blue".
This can be related to two main factors:

1. Anxiety or fear
   
   • Sounds of fireworks, thunder or the absence of the guardian can make the pet restless.
     
   • The dog may pace, whimper, lick its paws or pant.
     
2. Pain
   
   • If the dog has abdominal, ear or joint pain, it may not be able to settle down.
     
   • He gets up, turns around, lies down and gets up again, without finding a comfortable position.
     

Look out for other signs, such as crying when touched or excessive licking in one area. This can help the vet identify the cause.

Elderly dog panting

It's normal for a dog to pant after playing or on hot days.

But if your elderly dog is panting at rest for no apparent reason, it's a sign of attention.

Possible causes:

• Pain or anxiety: the dog is panting because it is uncomfortable.
  
• Heart or lung problems: very common in elderly dogs.
  
• Neurological changes: sometimes accompanied by tremors.
  

If breathing doesn't improve after a few minutes of rest, seek veterinary attention. Constant panting may indicate something serious.

Seizures in elderly dogs

Seizures are never normal. In elderly dogs, they are usually linked to:

• Brain tumors.
• Stroke.
• Metabolic diseases, such as kidney or liver failure or diabetes.
  

During a crisis:

• Move objects away to prevent the dog from hurting itself.
  
• Don't put your hand in his mouth.
  
• Make a note of the duration and go to the vet immediately.
  

Seizures in old dogs require investigation. So go to the vet as soon as you notice anything strange to investigate the cause of the seizure in your dog.

What to do when an elderly dog is spinning?

Observe and film the behavior. This helps the vet understand what's going on.

Notice if the dog is always turning to the same side, if there is a crooked head, falls or restlessness at night.

And remember: go to the vet as soon as possible for diagnosis.

After the consultation, you can adapt the house by using non-slip mats, removing obstacles and lighting the room at night.

Also, show calm and reassurance. An elderly dog is like an elderly human, there's no point in shouting and despairing. Speak to them in a gentle tone, maintain a routine and avoid punishments.

Get to know PetMoreTIme

Elderly dogs may spin out of habit, but when this happens excessively, along with disorientation, panting or convulsions, it's not just age.

This is usually a sign that the pet's body needs care.

With early diagnosis and simple adaptations at home, it's possible to offer more safety, comfort and quality of life to your senior companion.

At PetMoreTime, we are pioneers in longevity science for dogs in Brazil. If you want to know more about how to help your pet live longer and better, click here: