When your dog is losing balance and not eating, it can be a sign of a serious health concern that shouldn’t be ignored. A dog may stagger, fall, or seem disoriented while also refusing food, which is a red flag.
We outline the common causes of a dog losing balance and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Losing Balance and Not Eating — Why It Happens
When a dog is losing balance and not eating, it may be due to a neurological issue, inner ear infection, vestibular disease, toxin exposure, or a serious illness affecting the brain or body. The combination of disorientation and appetite loss is often a red flag and should be evaluated by a veterinarian right away.
Common Causes of Dog Losing Balance and Not Eating
Vestibular Disease
Vestibular disease affects the inner ear and balance system, often causing sudden loss of coordination in dogs.
Dogs with this condition may stumble, tilt their head, walk in circles, or even fall over. Nausea is also common, which can lead to a lack of interest in food.
Although vestibular disease can look alarming, especially in older dogs, many cases resolve with supportive care.
Still, it’s essential to rule out more serious causes like tumors or infections.
Read more: Dog Moving Slow and Not Eating (What’s causing this?)
Inner Ear Infections
A deep ear infection can throw off your dog’s balance and appetite simultaneously.
Bacteria or yeast in the ear can affect the vestibular nerve, leading to head tilting, disorientation, and stumbling. These symptoms are often accompanied by ear discharge or odor.
The discomfort and dizziness from the infection can discourage your dog from eating normally. Prompt treatment with antibiotics or antifungals is usually effective.
Neurological Disorders
Conditions affecting the brain or spinal cord—like encephalitis, brain tumors, or seizures—can impact both motor function and appetite.
A dog may seem weak, tremble, fall when walking, or act confused. These signs often develop gradually but may also appear suddenly.
Any neurological issue that affects the brain’s appetite center or causes nausea can suppress food intake. Neurological exams and imaging help confirm the diagnosis.
Toxins or Poisoning
Ingesting something toxic can rapidly cause balance loss, nausea, and appetite suppression.
Rodenticides, antifreeze, or certain plants and human medications can interfere with the nervous system or cause vomiting, disorientation, and weakness.
If your dog is suddenly off balance and refusing food, especially if they may have gotten into something toxic, urgent veterinary care is critical.
Liver Disease
Liver disease can lead to a condition called hepatic encephalopathy, which impairs brain function and coordination.
This may cause a dog to seem dizzy, confused, or unsteady, along with nausea and food refusal. Other signs include jaundice, increased thirst, and changes in behavior.
Bloodwork can detect elevated liver enzymes, and dietary changes or medication may help manage the condition.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, especially in puppies or small breeds, can cause loss of coordination and lethargy.
Your dog may appear weak, wobbly, or collapse. If food isn’t available—or if they’re refusing to eat—this can quickly become life-threatening.
Hypoglycemia requires immediate treatment with glucose or intravenous support, especially in young or diabetic dogs.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Losing Balance and Not Eating
Start by keeping your dog in a quiet, safe space where they can’t fall or injure themselves. Remove any obstacles or hazards.
Try offering bland, easily digestible food like boiled chicken and rice. If nausea seems to be present, wait and see if symptoms subside before trying again.
Watch for other signs like vomiting, seizures, or unusual eye movements, which may indicate a more serious problem.
Hydration is key—if your dog won’t drink, try offering ice cubes or bone broth. Avoid forcing food or water if they’re disoriented.
If your dog seems stable but symptoms persist more than a few hours, call your vet for advice.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog:
Is collapsing or unable to stand
Shows signs of confusion or unresponsiveness
Has repeated vomiting or diarrhea
Has eye flicking (nystagmus) or seizures
Ingested something potentially toxic
Even if symptoms are mild, any combination of balance issues and refusal to eat should be taken seriously. Delaying treatment could worsen the underlying condition.
Read more: Dog Confused and Not Eating (Signs it’s more than just dizziness)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is losing balance and not eating, it’s often a sign of a significant underlying problem like vestibular disease, neurological issues, or poisoning.
While some causes may be treatable at home with rest and hydration, others require urgent veterinary intervention. Always prioritize safety and call your vet if symptoms escalate or persist.
Catching these signs early can help ensure the best outcome for your dog.