What Are Neurological Disorders in Dogs?

Your dog’s nervous system acts as the ultimate “command center,” orchestrating everything from vital automatic functions like breathing and metabolism to the complex mental processes that shape their one-of-a-kind personality.

When the nervous system encounters problems, these can manifest as physical impairments or as changes in your dog’s cognitive abilities and responsiveness to commands.

Keep reading to dive deeper into your dog’s nervous system and discover the early warning signs of neurological trouble so you can protect your furry friend.

Anatomy of a Dog’s Nervous System

The nervous system is composed of the brain, spinal cord, and an intricate network of nerves that collaborate to maintain your dog’s physical health, emotional well-being, and mental sharpness.

The brain is your dog’s control hub and is divided into three key regions:

• Brain stem – Oversees essential life-sustaining processes such as breathing and digestion automatically, without conscious effort.
• Cerebrum – The powerhouse for higher-level thinking, including learning commands like “sit” or mastering house training.
• Cerebellum – Governs movement and coordination, enabling actions like walking, jumping, and running with precision.

The spinal cord extends from the base of the brain down along the spine to the tail, serving as a superhighway of nerve fibers. These fibers relay vital sensory information from the body to the brain—such as temperature changes or gentle petting—and transmit brain commands that control motion and other bodily functions.

How Does a Dog’s Nervous System Work?

Branching out from the spinal cord is an extensive network of nerves reaching every corner of your dog’s body. Some of these nerves transmit sensory messages to the spinal cord, which then relay them to the brain for interpretation and response. Others carry instructions from the brain to the muscles and organs—for example, triggering a bark when sensing a stranger or lifting a paw away from hot ground.

This complex system is divided into two interconnected parts:

• Central nervous system (CNS) — Encompasses the brain and spinal cord along with their internal nerves. Within this system, the sympathetic nervous system manages the “fight or flight” responses, activating the heart, lungs, muscles, and blood vessels during moments of excitement or perceived threat—like spotting a squirrel to chase.
• Peripheral nervous system (PNS) — Consists of all nerves outside the CNS, overseeing the “rest and digest” functions that support relaxation, including digestion and recovery.

Symptoms of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Neurological disorders in dogs can produce a wide range of symptoms, from subtle twitches and mild discomfort to severe episodes like seizures or paralysis. Watch for these warning signs that may indicate a neurological issue:

• Loss of balance and coordination (ataxia)
• Knuckling over or abnormal paw placement
• Rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
• Head tilting or repetitive circling
• Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
• Abnormal mental behavior or responsiveness
• Seizures or convulsions
• Shaking, trembling, or muscle twitches
• Weakness in the hind legs
• Disorientation or confusion

Causes of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Neurological conditions often stem from inherited genetic factors, making some breeds more susceptible than others. Other causes include cancerous tumors, traumatic injuries, and exposure to toxins.

Brain tumors might trigger seizures or noticeable behavior changes, while spinal tumors can mimic symptoms of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), such as back pain and hind limb weakness. Toxins like chocolate or antifreeze ingestion can provoke seizures, loss of coordination, and stumbling. Accidents, such as being struck by a vehicle, may cause damage to the brain or spinal cord, leading to neurological challenges.

Common Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Here are some of the most frequently diagnosed neurological conditions affecting dogs:

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) occurs when the cushioning discs within the spine bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord and disrupting nerve communication.

Although IVDD can arise in any breed, it disproportionately affects dogs with long backs and less stable spines—breeds like Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, and Beagles are especially vulnerable.

Affected dogs may show signs of pain by avoiding activities like jumping or climbing stairs. In severe cases, they might drag their feet or walk on the tops of their paws. Loss of mobility and incontinence can also occur if nerve damage affects bladder control.

Treatment ranges from strict rest and anti-inflammatory medications to surgical intervention, depending on severity. Surgery can restore mobility and the ability to urinate independently when nerve function is compromised.

Seizures

Seizures result from sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain, often causing convulsions and loss of consciousness. During seizures, dogs may lose bladder or bowel control.

Seizure causes vary, including toxin exposure, metabolic diseases (like liver issues), brain tumors, trauma, or inherited conditions.

Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common inherited cause, usually managed with lifelong anti-epileptic medications such as levetiracetam, phenobarbital, or potassium bromide.

Maintaining a detailed seizure diary helps veterinarians detect triggers and tailor treatments. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if a seizure lasts over five minutes or if multiple seizures occur within 24 hours, as these situations risk brain damage and are life-threatening emergencies.

Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease causes sudden loss of balance and spatial orientation. Dogs may become unable to walk, exhibit circling, tilt their head, or show rapid involuntary eye movements (nystagmus). Nausea often leads to decreased appetite and vomiting.

This condition primarily affects senior dogs and might be linked to inner or middle ear infections. However, in many cases, no specific cause is identified.

Thankfully, symptoms typically improve dramatically within a few days and resolve completely over weeks.

Treatment focuses on controlling nausea with medications like Cerenia® and providing supportive care to ensure proper eating, drinking, and elimination.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome, akin to dementia in humans, affects senior dogs’ brain function.

Signs include getting disoriented within familiar spaces, becoming stuck in corners, barking at unseen stimuli, and appearing confused—especially during evening hours.

While cognitive dysfunction cannot be cured, its progression can be slowed through medication, specialized diets (like Purina NeuroCare or Hill’s b/d), supplements, and mental stimulation through gentle exercise and interactive games.

Wobbler Syndrome

Also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy, Wobbler syndrome causes neck pain, unsteady gait, dragging feet, and neurological deficits due to spinal cord compression in the neck area.

Large breeds such as Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Weimaraners, and Rottweilers are most at risk.

Treatment may be surgical or medical, with management including strict rest and medications like carprofen for inflammation or gabapentin for nerve pain relief.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive spinal cord disease leading to hind limb weakness and eventual paralysis. It mimics arthritis or hip dysplasia and frequently affects older German Shepherds.

Believed to result from a genetic mutation similar to ALS in humans, there is currently no cure. Maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy weight can help slow progression.

Pain management is often needed due to accompanying arthritis.

Meningitis, Encephalitis, and Encephalomyelitis

These terms describe inflammation of the brain, spinal cord, or their protective membranes. Symptoms include fever, head pressing or tilting, circling, ataxia, muscle tremors, blindness, and seizures.

Causes range from infections by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites to autoimmune diseases.

Diagnosis requires specialist tests such as MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Treatment includes targeted antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory medications based on the underlying cause.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Neurological Issues in Dogs

When neurological symptoms arise, your veterinarian will begin with a detailed history—their focus will be on any toxin exposures, trauma incidents, or changes in behavior.

If seizures are involved, expect questions like:

• Duration and frequency of seizure episodes
• Onset date of first seizure
• Specific behaviors during episodes, including convulsions or loss of bodily control

Video recordings of unusual behavior are highly valuable tools to aid diagnosis.

Following a physical exam, your vet will often order blood tests, X-rays, and possibly a spinal fluid tap to analyze cerebrospinal fluid for infections or cancer cells.

Referrals to a veterinary neurologist may be recommended. These specialists have advanced diagnostic equipment like CT and MRI scans, which allow detailed visualization of the brain, spinal cord, and discs critical for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment for Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Treatment varies widely depending on the neurological condition but generally includes lifestyle adjustments, medications, or surgery.

Medication

Medications form the cornerstone of treatment for most neurological disorders. Anti-epileptic drugs manage seizure disorders and typically require lifelong administration with ongoing monitoring to adjust doses.

For spinal cord compression, anti-inflammatory drugs such as steroids can reduce swelling and alleviate pain. These medications may cause side effects like increased thirst, appetite, urination, and panting.

If your dog is prescribed steroids, provide more frequent bathroom breaks and monitor their diet to prevent weight gain that can exacerbate neurological issues.

Supplements and Prescription Diets

Certain supplements and specially formulated diets support neurological health. SAMe, an anti-inflammatory supplement, may provide relief for some conditions.

Prescription diets like Purina NeuroCare and Hill’s b/d are clinically proven to slow cognitive decline and reduce seizure frequency.

Surgery

Surgery is generally reserved for cases requiring relief from spinal or brain compression and is performed by neurology specialists. Advanced imaging guides precise surgical planning.

While costly, surgery may offer the best outcome for restoring function. Post-operative care and follow-up visits, often handled by your regular vet, are essential for recovery.

Recovery and Management of Neurological Disorders in Dogs

Many neurological disorders can be effectively managed to maintain your dog’s quality of life. Others might require a series of diagnostic tests and specialist consultations to reach a definitive diagnosis.

Strictly follow all medication instructions. If your dog experiences unusual side effects or you have concerns, contact your veterinarian promptly. Some medications, like phenobarbital, may initially cause wobbling or stumbling that typically improves with time. Your vet is your best resource for guidance on medication adjustments and side effect management.

Can you prevent neurological disorders in dogs?

Because many neurological issues are inherited, complete prevention is challenging. However, if you own a breed prone to problems like IVDD (e.g., Dachshunds), proactive measures can reduce risk.

Encourage your dog to use ramps or stairs instead of jumping, maintain a healthy weight to minimize spinal stress, and limit exposure to toxins by securely storing harmful substances like pesticides, human foods, and medications out of reach.

These practical steps can help preserve your dog’s neurological health and overall well-being.