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My dog shook, head tilted, limped, then recovered. What caused it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male

My dog ate the food after some time suddenly he is trembling , head tilt, back legs can't able to walk limbing, fingers stiffen . After 2 to 3 min he was back to the normal. Is there any major issues please i request you to answer the question as soon as possible

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Peter!

How old is Peter? The most common condition that causes trouble walking, falling over, head tilt and trembling is Vestibular disease. This is a problem with the balance center in either the brain or the inner ear. Possible causes are an ear infection, stroke, low thyroid, a brain tumor or if he is just old it can be idiopathic (meaning we don't know why). I have seen dogs become Vestibular and then be normal that quickly, though usually the signs can persist for up to 2 weeks. I am not sure about the relation to the food you are feeding.

If he shows the symptoms again I would immediately take him to your Vet for an exam. Consider video taping it so you can show them in case it goes away quickly again.

I hope this helps and I wish you and Peter the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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