Dog Dizzy And Throwing Up Causes Signs What To Do

Dogs can't tell us when something is wrong, but their bodies often send clear signals. Dizziness and vomiting are two alarming symptoms that, when they occur together, should never be ignored. These signs may point to a minor upset stomach or something far more serious like poisoning, neurological disorders, or inner ear infections. Understanding the underlying causes, recognizing early warning signs, and knowing how to respond can make a critical difference in your dog’s recovery.

Common Causes of Dizziness and Vomiting in Dogs

Dizziness—often seen as loss of balance, head tilting, circling, or stumbling—and vomiting can stem from a variety of health issues. Some are easily resolved; others require urgent veterinary attention.

• Inner Ear Infections: The inner ear plays a crucial role in balance. Infections here disrupt equilibrium, leading to dizziness and nausea.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Eating spoiled food, overeating, or dietary changes can cause vomiting and sometimes mild disorientation due to dehydration.
• Poisoning: Ingestion of toxic substances like chocolate, xylitol, household cleaners, or certain plants can trigger both symptoms rapidly.
• Vestibular Disease: Especially common in older dogs, this condition mimics stroke symptoms—sudden loss of balance, head tilt, and nystagmus (involuntary eye movement).
• Neurological Issues: Brain tumors, strokes, or inflammation can interfere with coordination and lead to nausea.
• Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Common in small breeds or diabetic dogs, low glucose levels can cause weakness, trembling, confusion, and vomiting.
• Heatstroke: Overheating leads to disorientation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and collapse.

Tip: If your dog suddenly starts walking unsteadily or vomiting without explanation, assume it's an emergency until proven otherwise.

Key Warning Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Not all cases of dizziness and vomiting are equally dangerous. However, certain red flags indicate a life-threatening situation:

• Symptoms lasting more than 2–3 hours
• Frequent or projectile vomiting
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Extreme lethargy or inability to stand
• Seizures or muscle twitching
• Rapid breathing or pale gums
• Glazed eyes or abnormal eye movements
• Recent exposure to toxins or medications

“Dizziness combined with vomiting is a neurological red flag. Even if your dog seems stable, prompt evaluation is essential.” — Dr. Rebecca Langley, DVM, Veterinary Neurologist

Step-by-Step: What to Do When Your Dog Is Dizzy and Vomiting

When your dog shows these symptoms, quick, calm action matters. Follow this timeline to protect their health:

1. Stay Calm and Observe: Note when symptoms started, frequency of vomiting, posture, eye movement, and any possible toxin exposure.
2. Withhold Food for 6–8 Hours: Give the digestive system a rest. Continue offering small sips of water to prevent dehydration.
3. Check for Toxins: Inspect the area for chewed packaging, spilled medication, or unfamiliar substances.
4. Keep Your Dog Still and Safe: Prevent falls or injury by confining them to a quiet, padded space.
5. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Describe symptoms clearly. If your regular vet is unavailable, seek an emergency clinic.
6. Prepare for Transport: Use a carrier or blanket to support your dog during travel, especially if they can’t walk steadily.
7. Follow Veterinary Instructions: Whether it’s coming in for an exam or administering first aid, follow directions precisely.

Do’s and Don’ts: A Quick Reference Table

Do’s	Don’ts
Monitor breathing and gum color	Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet
Offer small amounts of water frequently	Do not give human medications (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Keep your dog warm and comfortable	Do not let them eat or drink freely after vomiting
Document symptom patterns	Do not delay veterinary care hoping symptoms will pass
Call your vet or poison control immediately	Do not attempt home remedies like milk or oil

Real-Life Example: Bella the Beagle’s Sudden Collapse

Bella, a 7-year-old beagle, began pacing in circles one evening and then vomited twice. Her owner noticed her head was tilted sharply to one side, and her eyes darted back and forth. Initially thought to be a stomach bug, the symptoms worsened within hours. Bella couldn’t stand without falling. The owner called the emergency vet, who suspected vestibular disease. After a full examination, including blood work and ear inspection, the diagnosis was an inner ear infection complicated by secondary vertigo. With antibiotics and anti-nausea medication, Bella improved within 48 hours. Early intervention prevented permanent damage.

This case highlights how quickly symptoms can escalate and why even seemingly non-painful conditions require professional assessment.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some situations demand immediate transport to an emergency clinic:

• Unconsciousness or seizures
• Vomiting accompanied by bloating (possible bloat/GDV)
• Known ingestion of toxic substances
• Inability to drink water or keep it down
• Body temperature above 104°F (40°C)

Tip: Save your local emergency vet’s number and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline [phone]) in your phone now.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Risk

While not all causes can be avoided, responsible pet ownership reduces many risks:

• Secure household chemicals and medications out of reach.
• Feed a consistent, high-quality diet and avoid table scraps.
• Schedule regular vet check-ups, especially for senior dogs.
• Keep ears clean and dry to prevent infections.
• Provide shade and fresh water during hot weather.
• Use ID tags and microchips to prevent wandering and accidental ingestion of unknown substances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dizziness and vomiting in dogs be caused by stress?

Yes, extreme stress or motion sickness can cause temporary nausea and imbalance. However, persistent symptoms are rarely due to stress alone and should still be evaluated by a vet.

Is vestibular disease fatal in dogs?

No, most dogs recover from idiopathic vestibular disease with supportive care. While it looks severe, it’s often not life-threatening. Underlying causes like tumors or infections need targeted treatment.

Should I feed my dog after they stop vomiting?

After 6–8 hours without vomiting, offer a small portion of bland food like boiled chicken and rice. Gradually reintroduce regular meals over 24–48 hours if digestion remains stable.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Dizziness and vomiting in dogs are symptoms that demand respect and swift action. While some cases resolve on their own, others signal hidden dangers beneath the surface. Your awareness and timely response could save your dog’s life. Never downplay sudden behavioral or physical changes—even if your dog seems “fine otherwise.” Trust your instincts. When in doubt, call your veterinarian.

💬 Have you experienced this with your dog? Share your story or questions below. Your experience might help another pet owner recognize danger signs faster.