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My dachshund puppy has head bobbing & balance issues. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Male | neutered | 3 months and 4 days old | 7 lbs

I was just wondering if and how soon I should get my 3 month old dachshund in to a neurologist. He had 2 episodes about 2 weeks apart where one minute he was fine and the next his head was bobbing back and forth uncontrollably every time he picked it up, and when he sat up he had no balance and his whole body was bobbing back and forth. He can barely stand or walk when this happens, and he is very tired. It usually last a night, and when he wakes up the next morning he is perfectly fine.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 28th, 2017

Poor guy. I would absolutely think about. Neurologist consult but the first thing that should be done is an exam by your regular vet and bloodwork/urinalysis done to rule out any other detectable underlying cause. Plus the neurologist will want to have you referred by your regular vet in order to see Oskar. Mainly what we want to rule out first is any underlying liver issue (hepatic encephalopathy or a liver shunt). Liver problems can for the most part be treated through your regular vet. I hope that your pup turns out ok and that you are able to get to the bottom of his neurological symptoms. Best wishes and take care.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recomend first taking Oskar to his regular vet for an exam if you haven't already. They can help advise you and may be able to run some diagnostic tests prior to seeing the neurologist. Some specialists may be referral based only meaning that you have to be sent by his primary doctor. But certainly get him evaluated of these episodes continue or increase in frequency. Good ick to Oskar

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is certainly a concerning behavior. I would recommend recording it if you are able to. This will help the vet better understand what is going on. If you have not already had Oskar evaluated by your regular vet, I would start there. It may be something that they can diagnose and mange without seeing a specialist. If however you prefer to see the specialist or your regular vet has already evaluated Oskar then you can set up a referral to a neurologist. He may be having a mild seizure, have a problem with his cervical (neck) spine or have a metabolic issue like hypoglycemia. Keep a record of when he has these episodes and if they start becoming more frequent get him in to the vet as soon as you can. Hopefully this is something simple and Oskar will out grow it. Good luck!

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