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My dog is disoriented, head tilted, and lethargic. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 5 years and 4 months old

Hi, My dog got up after having rest after coming home from a cold walk and he seemed disorientated and had his head tilted. He has seemed lethargic for the rest of the evening but has eaten and drank fine. I am quite concerned about him. I was wondering whether it was because he didn’t wear his jumper on his walk and when he returned he slept right next to the hot radiator. Please could you advise. Thanks.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on February 25th, 2018

I would recommend that you have Charlie examined by a vet. The symptoms you have described can be cause by idiopathic vestibular syndrome ( http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=564 ), but this is usually seen in older dogs. Other causes could be a middle ear infection, an issue in the brain, or less commonly a stroke. It is possible that he is not reacting to the sudden changes in temperature, and I may be inclined to think this was the cause if he is much better in a couple hours.

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 25th, 2018

    A head tilt often indicates an ear infection. If he is eating fine, then I would not worry about a more severe disease like vestibular disease, or a disease affecting the brain. If the head tilt persists, or he seems abnormally tired, then it's best to have a vet examine him sometime soon. They can do a thorough exam and narrow-down the possibilities. Below is a link to more information about inner ear disease. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/inner-ear-infection-otitis-interna-in-dogs I hope that helps and Charlie gets better soon.

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