My puppy dropped on its head. What signs of injury should I look for?

The first question to answer is, if he lost his consciousness when he fell. Being 'knocked out' suggest brain trauma, concussion at least. If he was conscious at all times, then most likely the brain did not suffer any serious injury. Dogs have relatively small brains (compared to human), which are also well protected by the skull bones. Brain injuries are much less common in dogs than in human patients. So, my advice is : as long as Milo is looking normal, he is bright and alert, he is not vomiting, his pupils are of equal size, he is not in any obvious pain or discomfort you should monitor him at home. If he becomes lethargic, weak on legs, crying for no reason or vomiting you need to call your regular vets or your nearest emergency service asap.

If Conley seems alert, responsive and non-painful at this point after the incident I doubt there is potential for head trauma. Signs of head trauma or internal injury would include lethargy, disorientation, different sized pupils or labored/irregular breathing. You also may want to make sure she is eating and drinking normally with no pain to make sure she didn't injure her mouth or a tooth during the fall. Puppies are pretty resilient and I would bet there are no lasting injuries.

He will probably be OK, however I would closely observe him for the next 24 hrs for signs of unusual behaviors, lethargy, or vomiting. If any of this occurs, Jax needs to be taken to a veterinarian or emergency room right away to assess him for more serious complications.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Wendy may have just been shaken from the fall. I recommend monitoring her for lethargy, reduced appetite or evidence of pain (yelping when jumping or running, being pet in certain areas, or overall reduced activity). If any of these signs occur, she should be evaluated by a vet as soon as possible. I hope all is well!

Hello, if Bubby has an open fontanel on his skull (brain skull not completely formed), then this can cause pets to be confused. He could have hit his head hard enough to have a concussion as well. If he does not start to be more alert within the next 30 minutes, or if he develops additional signs such as seizure and trembling, disorientation, or is not responding then he should be seen immediately by a veterinarian. Keep him head upright without putting him on his back. Hope he feels better soon.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor baby!! I think if he is acting fine now he will continue to be fine! Just watch him closely for the next 24 hours. Things to be concern about are crying in pain, excessive tiredness, not wanting to eat, etc. I wish you the best!

Poor Bruno! I am sure it hurt when he hit his head. Monitor him for any abnormal signs and have your vet take a look at him if you notice anything concerning, like disorientation, unsteadiness, unequal or dilated pupils, nausea, etc. If he just hit his head while turning around there probably wasn't enough force to cause any major damage.