My 8-year-old Chihuahua circled, now she won't move. What's wrong?

There are an umber of possibilities but I would be concerned she may have ear or dental issues causing pain, discomfort and disorientation. Older dogs can also develop cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia) which can cause similar signs - a full check up by your local vet would be recommended as soon as possible as early medication can help relieve many of these symptoms

I'm a little concerned that these symptoms you report may be mild seizure activity. Especially if she does not really respond to you during the event. Circling can also be a symptom of something going on with the head (seizure or otherwise). If this has occurred more than once I would recommend a visit to your vet for a baseline neurologic exam and some blood work to rule out anything wrong with her blood sugar, electrolytes, or organ function. If you can catch an episode on video this can be really helpful so that your vet can determine if this is neurologic in origin. If determined to be neurologic in origin, then there are many things that can cause this, and further testing and/or anti-seizure medication may be needed. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

This could indicate anxiety or pain. If she has a head tilt or unable to lay down without flipping over, or non-responsive to you when she is like this, then I would be more concerned about a neurological problem and she needs to see a vet ASAP. But if she is willing to stop to eat or drink and responsive to your voice then I would monitor her closely, rest her for the weekend (don't let her run, jump or play) and contact your vet Monday if she is still showing symptoms. I would not recommend to give her any human pun meds as most of these are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps!

Poor Gizmo. He could have an ear infection, vestibular disease, or possibly a tumor. He should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. He may need an antibiotic or other medications to help. Hope he feels better soon!

Hello. Is the circling always in the same direction? Can you call her from the circling & stop the behavior? If not, this may be indicative of an inner ear infection, or more seriously, a brain lesion. You should have Snickers evaluated at your earliest convenience to diagnose the cause of this behavior. Once done, then the appropriate treatment can be initiated to help her to heal. Best to a speedy recovery & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

What your are describing are vestibular signs, although hit could be caused by head trauma, it's more likely to be either a severe ear infection or a brain disease (possibly a tumor). I would recommend you to take Moxie to the vet ASAP.

I am so sorry for you. loss. What a sweet face your ChiChi had. From what you are describing I am suspicious that ChiChi had a brain tumor. Brain tumors can cause dogs to circle and have seizures. Especially in an older guy, that would be my guess. A number of other causes are possible--a tumor somewhere else, a severe electrolyte disturbance, liver failure of severe disease of the GI tract, low blood sugar as a result of a tumor in the pancreas, as well as countless other possibilities, but again my first thought is that he had a brain tumor. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like ChiChi had a long, wonderful life with you! Take care of yourself, and please reach out if you have any other questions.