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My dog is suddenly wobbly, falling, and eyes darting. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 14 years old

Recently began walking like she’s drunk; falling over, losing balance. The other day I noticed 1 ear was exceptionally gross but not the other one. Today eyes are darting back and forth/no appetite, losing control of bladder. Vestibular disease or could it be a stroke or anything else? We will be going to Vet tomm but am terrified in the meantime.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I am sorry to hear Athena is not feeling well- sounds like there is a lot going on.

It is hard to say what exactly the cause is of Athena's symptoms but it sounds like she may have an ear infection which can contribute to loss of balance, however if she has loss of balance, nystagmus (eyes darting back and forth), loss of bladder control and no appetite, there may be something more here at play then just an ear infection. There may be a brain tumor or cancerous process elsewhere in the body that may have metastasized to the brain which may be contributing to Athena's symptoms.

I am happy to hear Athena will be checked out soon by her veterinarian.

Best of luck to you both!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 30th, 2017
This indicates that something is wrong with the vestibular system (balance), or the brain. It's difficult to know without having more information, but a sudden lack of balance and darting eyes with no history of illness or injury is indicative of idiopathic vestibular disease, which happens for unknown reasons in older dogs.

If Jazz happened to have an ear infection, then this can be due to an inner ear infection. If Jazz was sick before, or had a recent injury, then it's more likely to be problem within the brain.

Idiopathic vestibular disease and inner ear infections are not emergencies, but it's best to get these dogs treatment as soon as possible, because it is quite distressing and nauseating for the dog. In cases of infection, or trauma, this is considered an emergency, because things can get quickly worse.

I hope that helps. If you have further questions or need further clarification, then you may consider having an online consult with one of our vets on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. This way, you can send unlimited pictures and have a text conversation with a vet.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on January 30th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These are classic neurologic signs that can be seen more specifically with vestibular disease. This can be observed with intracranial disease, infections, toxicities, deep ear infections, among other possibilities. I recommend that you have Milo evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. a thorough examination would be performed to see if it is possible that this is due to an ear infection. More advanced diagnostics such as an MRI may be recommended. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a good night!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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