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Why is my senior dog walking in circles for hours, what's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | 16 years and 1 month old | 12 lbs

My dog has been walking in a circle nonstop for the past 5/6 hours. She has walked so much that her back legs have gotten tired but she is still trying to move in a circle. It's as if she's in a trance, I'm trying to figure out what it could be. Her face isn't drooping so I don't believe it's a seizure.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2017

Hello, I am so sorry for your concerns about Doofy. This may not be a classic seizure, but this is definitely an indication of abnormal neurological behavior. She is an extremely old dog, so this would not be totally unexpected. It is very important to have Doofy seen as quickly as possible. She needs immediate care, otherwise she will literally walk herself to death. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, & I am very sorry that Doofy is not well. I hope you can help her as soon as you can. Take care.

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