1. Understanding the Behavior
You’ve likely noticed your old canine companion starting to walk in circles. This behavior might be confusing, and even a bit concerning. But rest assured, it is a common observation among aging dogs.
Before diving into the reasons, let’s remember that you’re not alone. Countless pet owners have faced the same situation. You’re in this journey of caregiving together, so let’s explore this issue hand-in-paw.
2. Potential Causes
There are several reasons why your elderly dog might start walking in circles. You might find that one or several of these reasons apply to your beloved four-legged friend:
- Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) – This is basically the dog version of Alzheimer’s disease for humans. It can cause confusion, disorientation, and result in your dog walking in circles.
- Vestibular Disease – This is a condition affecting the balance systems of your dog’s inner ear. It can cause a dog to feel off balance and disoriented, leading them to walk in circles.
- Ear Infection – A severe or untreated ear infection can also cause balance issues, resulting in circular walking.
- Brain Tumor – While this is a less common cause, a brain tumor can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, including walking in circles.
| Potential Cause | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome | Confusion, disorientation, changes in sleep patterns | Medication, environmental changes |
| Vestibular Disease | Loss of balance, head tilting, rapid eye movements | Medication, supportive care |
| Ear Infection | Head shaking, scratching at the ear, loss of balance | Antibiotics, cleaning the ear |
| Brain Tumor | Circling, seizures, changes in behavior | Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy |
3. When to Seek Professional Help
Once you notice your dog’s circular walking, you might be wondering when to step in. If the behavior is occasional and doesn’t seem to distress your dog, you might choose to simply monitor them closely. However, if your dog appears distressed, disoriented, or the behavior increases in frequency or duration, it’s time to contact your veterinarian.
4. What Your Vet Will Do
Your vet is equipped with the knowledge and tools to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms. They’ll conduct a thorough physical exam and may order blood tests, x-rays, or an MRI.
5. How You Can Help
As your dog’s primary caregiver, there are several ways you can support them:
- Maintain a calm and stable environment
- Keep a routine for feeding and walks
- Minimize changes to your dog’s environment or schedule
- Provide plenty of fresh water and a balanced diet
- Offer lots of love and reassurance
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can my dog’s circular walking be cured?
It depends on the cause. Some conditions like ear infections can be cured, while others like CDS can be managed.
2. Is circular walking painful for my dog?
Not in itself, but if it’s caused by an ear infection or brain tumor, those can be painful.
3. How can I prevent my dog from walking in circles?
Prevention is tricky because the behavior is often a symptom of an underlying issue. Keeping up with regular vet visits and taking note of any behavioral changes can help catch potential issues early.
4. How long can a dog live with Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
With proper management, dogs with CDS can still live a good quality of life for many years.
5. Can puppies also walk in circles?
Yes, but it’s less common and often a sign of a different set of health issues. Always consult a vet if you’re concerned.
