My dog stares, circles, and struggles to walk. Is it a seizure?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 12 years and 6 months old | 6.9 lbs
My dog will look up and stare like she is seeing things and then she brings one of her front legs up and she has a very hard time waking. Sometimes she will slowly go in a circle. She seems to come out of it quickly, usually lasts about five minutes.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 17th, 2018
I'm a little concerned that these symptoms you report may be mild seizure activity. Especially if she does not really respond to you during the event. Circling can also be a symptom of something going on with the head (seizure or otherwise). If this has occurred more than once I would recommend a visit to your vet for a baseline neurologic exam and some blood work to rule out anything wrong with her blood sugar, electrolytes, or organ function. If you can catch an episode on video this can be really helpful so that your vet can determine if this is neurologic in origin. If determined to be neurologic in origin, then there are many things that can cause this, and further testing and/or anti-seizure medication may be needed. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 3rd, 2017
The circling and seizures indicates that there is a disease process in the brain causing these problems. I'm sorry to say, but these are usually due to a severe problem (like infection or cancer) that can be life-threatening. I recommend you take Sissy to the vet as soon as you possibly can, because she really needs help fast.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 20th, 2020
Hi Diana. I'm very sorry this is happening to your dog. It is very concerning that his seizures are getting worse, and I think the best thing to do is take him into a vet immediately. He may need an adjustment of his medication, but it may be time to let him go. Please take him into a vet now.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 23rd, 2019
It can be the sign of a seizure type activity within the brain. It can also be a sign of a brain tumor, hepatic encephalopathy or an inner ear infection. All of these require treatment and can only be accurately diagnosed with a physical exam and lab work. I recommend to get Brownie into see the veterinarian today as waiting can make it worse. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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