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Why is my dog twitching, wobbling, and acting strange after waking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog woke up from his sleep and his head started twitching, if I try and lift his arms up they involuntarily spasm even on the way down. He wobble’s and sways while standing and won’t move very far from one spot. His tongue is tacky but his gums are a nice pink color. He is also very on edge to where if I put my hand near his face he’ll instantly jolt his head. I also took him on a walk and he kept acting like there was something like a squirrel outside, there was nothing.??!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ana M, DVM

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 24th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your dog. If he is still acting this way, he will need to see his veterinarian. Was there any chance that he could have ingested a toxin? That was my first consideration when reading your post. If not, then he could have a primary neurologic disease. His veterinarian will be able to guide you based on his exam findings. Good luck!
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