When a dog suddenly becomes wobbly and refuses to eat, it can be a deeply distressing sight for any pet owner.
These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying health issue that requires prompt attention.
We outline the common causes of a dog being wobbly and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Wobbly and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs that appear wobbly and refuse food may be suffering from anything ranging from neurological issues to severe infections or toxic exposure. Conditions like vestibular disease, poisoning, low blood sugar, inner ear infections, and dehydration can all disrupt your dog’s balance and suppress appetite.
The combination of these symptoms often signals that your dog is feeling unwell and may need immediate veterinary care.
Dog Wobbly and Not Eating: Common Causes
Vestibular Disease
Vestibular disease affects the inner ear and balance system in dogs. It often causes a sudden onset of symptoms, including a tilted head, loss of coordination, and stumbling.
Dogs with this condition may also feel nauseous, leading to a refusal to eat.
This condition can be idiopathic (of unknown cause), age-related, or linked to an inner ear infection. While it looks alarming, many dogs improve with supportive care, though a vet must first rule out more serious causes like stroke or tumors.
Toxic Exposure
Certain toxins, such as pesticides, xylitol, or human medications, can interfere with your dog’s nervous system and digestive tract. This might result in your dog appearing shaky, disoriented, or weak—and refusing food entirely.
Toxicity is a medical emergency. Vomiting, drooling, twitching, or collapse may also accompany the wobbliness and anorexia.
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Low blood sugar is especially dangerous in small breeds, puppies, or diabetic dogs. It can cause sudden weakness, unsteadiness, trembling, and loss of appetite.
If left untreated, hypoglycemia may lead to seizures or unconsciousness. It often occurs when dogs haven’t eaten in several hours or have an underlying condition like Addison’s disease or insulin overdose.
Inner Ear Infections
Inner ear infections can upset your dog’s equilibrium. Dogs may become dizzy, stagger when walking, and show little interest in eating due to nausea and discomfort.
These infections can stem from untreated outer ear infections or foreign bodies in the ear.
You might also notice head shaking, pawing at the ear, or discharge.
Related: Dog Walking Slow and Not Eating (Causes and what to do)
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
If your dog has been vomiting or has diarrhea, they may become dehydrated quickly. Dehydration causes weakness, unsteady gait, and loss of appetite.
Severe fluid or electrolyte imbalance affects muscle function and brain activity, which explains the wobbliness.
This can be life-threatening, especially in puppies or senior dogs.
Neurological Conditions
Disorders affecting the brain or spinal cord—such as seizures, tumors, or inflammation—can cause ataxia (wobbliness) and poor appetite.
Dogs may also exhibit confusion, circling, or changes in behavior.
These cases require imaging tests and neurological exams to determine the root cause.
Some conditions are progressive, while others may be treatable.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Wobbly and Not Eating
Start by keeping your dog calm and in a safe, quiet space. Remove any obstacles they might trip over or bump into while unsteady.
Try offering bland, tempting foods like boiled chicken, bone broth, or baby food without onions or garlic. Ensure clean water is available, but don’t force them to drink.
If you suspect dehydration or your dog hasn’t eaten in more than 24 hours, avoid waiting too long.
Dogs that seem dizzy or disoriented may be at risk of injury.
Do not attempt home remedies if you suspect poisoning or neurological issues—seek emergency care.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should call your vet immediately if your dog:
Becomes suddenly wobbly or collapses
Hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours
Is vomiting or having diarrhea in addition to being wobbly
Has pale gums, seizures, or unusual eye movement
Shows signs of pain, whimpering, or head tilting
Sudden neurological signs or balance issues can worsen quickly. A veterinarian can check for toxins, infections, or neurological damage and begin treatment quickly.
Read more: Dog Withdrawn and Not Eating (What it means)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is wobbly and not eating, don’t ignore it—it’s a sign something is seriously wrong.
From inner ear infections to toxic exposure or neurological issues, these symptoms call for a careful response.
While some causes may be treatable at home under guidance, many require urgent veterinary evaluation. When in doubt, always call your vet.
Your dog’s safety, balance, and appetite are all closely tied to their overall health. Catching the cause early gives your dog the best chance at recovery.