How to Spot Signs of a Stroke in Dogs: Crucial Warning Every Owner Needs

If you’re a pet parent like me, there’s almost nothing scarier than seeing your dog act… off. I remember one morning in the clinic when a sweet old Labrador named Max stumbled into the exam room like he was dizzy or drunk. His owner was in tears, convinced it was the end. Turned out, Max had suffered a stroke. That moment stuck with me. It reminded me just how critical it is to know how to spot signs of a stroke in dogs—early. Because yes, dogs *can* have strokes, and no, they don’t always look the way we might expect.

What Is a Stroke in Dogs?

We usually associate strokes with people, but dogs aren’t immune. A stroke happens when there’s a disruption of blood flow to a part of the brain. That might sound technical, but think of it as the brain getting starved of oxygen—and when that happens, things start to go haywire fast.

In my time working as a veterinary assistant with a nutrition focus, I’ve seen a few strokes sneak up on even the healthiest-looking pups. The key is understanding that strokes in dogs can be either ischemic (blocked blood flow) or hemorrhagic (bleeding in the brain). While the causes vary, the outcome is the same: the brain stops getting what it needs.

Common Causes of Dog Strokes

So, what actually causes a stroke in dogs? Well, it’s not always what you might think. Unlike humans, who may have strokes due to lifestyle-related issues like smoking or poor diet, dogs usually have underlying medical conditions. Here are a few of the more common ones:

• High blood pressure – Especially in older or obese dogs.
• Kidney disease – Impacts blood pressure and overall health.
• Cushing’s disease – A hormonal imbalance that affects many systems.
• Heart disease – Can lead to blood clots that travel to the brain.
• Diabetes – Yes, dogs get it too. And it can cause vascular issues.
• Blood clotting disorders – Whether genetic or acquired, they increase risk.

In Max’s case, he had undiagnosed high blood pressure that went unnoticed for too long. His owner had no idea—he seemed fine until suddenly, he wasn’t.

How to Spot Signs of a Stroke in Dogs

This is the section I wish every pet parent could memorize. Knowing how to spot signs of a stroke in dogs can be the difference between fast care and irreversible damage. The signs aren’t always dramatic. Sometimes, they sneak up subtly. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

1. Sudden Loss of Balance or Coordination

Is your dog wobbling, walking in circles, or falling over? That’s not just clumsiness. It could be a neurological sign that something’s wrong. I once saw a Border Collie named Luna collapse mid-walk. Her owner thought she’d twisted her ankle—but nope, stroke.

2. Head Tilting or Eye Movement

One of the tell-tale signs I always check for is a persistent head tilt or rapid, side-to-side eye movement (called nystagmus). It looks weird—and it is. This often means the vestibular system is affected, which can happen in a stroke.

3. Sudden Behavioral Changes

We know our dogs. If they start acting out of character—confused, anxious, or even aggressive—that’s a red flag. Some dogs may appear dazed or unresponsive. Max, for example, started pacing in circles and didn’t respond to his name. That’s when his owner rushed in.

4. Weakness or Paralysis

Stroke symptoms can show up as weakness on one side, or a complete loss of function in a limb. Watch for dragging paws or a droopy face. It’s heartbreaking to see, but early treatment can help in some cases.

5. Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control

This one tends to catch people off guard. If your house-trained dog suddenly starts having accidents—especially paired with other signs—it’s worth getting them checked immediately.

6. Seizures or Collapse

These are extreme signs but also not uncommon. A seizure doesn’t always mean stroke, but if your dog suddenly collapses or convulses, it’s an emergency either way.

Don’t panic—but don’t wait either. When in doubt, call your vet. Better to be wrong than to be late.

Are There Any Stroke Look-Alikes?

Absolutely. One of the things we learn fast in vet med is that a bunch of conditions can mimic strokes. Vestibular disease is the most common look-alike. It hits older dogs like a truck—sudden loss of balance, head tilt, falling over. But the difference? Vestibular disease often improves with time, while strokes can worsen without treatment.

Other stroke mimics include:

1. Inner ear infections
2. Brain tumors
3. Seizure disorders
4. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

I had a case where a senior Beagle came in trembling and couldn’t walk straight. We thought “stroke” immediately. But a few tests later? Just a nasty ear infection throwing off his balance. This is why a veterinary diagnosis is crucial—you can’t guess your way through this stuff.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Dog Had a Stroke

Alright, so let’s say you’ve spotted a few of those signs we talked about—maybe your pup’s walking in circles, or one side of their face is drooping. What next? First and foremost: stay calm. Your dog needs you to be their anchor right now.

The very first call should be to your vet. If it’s after hours, head to the nearest emergency clinic. Don’t “wait and see.” I’ve seen way too many well-meaning pet parents lose critical hours that way. Brain damage progresses quickly, and minutes matter. Even if it turns out to be something else (like vestibular disease), it’s better to be cautious.

Here’s what to have ready when you call:

• A list of symptoms you noticed
• When the symptoms started (roughly)
• Any known medical conditions your dog has
• Any meds or supplements they’re currently taking

During my time assisting in neuro cases, I always appreciated pet parents who came in prepared. It speeds up care and helps us act fast.

How Vets Diagnose a Stroke in Dogs

Here’s the thing—there’s no quick swab or instant blood test for dog strokes. Diagnosis is usually a combination of physical exams, neurological assessments, and advanced imaging.

Physical and Neurological Exams

One of the first things we do is a full neuro check. We’ll test reflexes, eye movement, coordination, and reactions to stimuli. It’s a bit like a doggy version of what human neurologists do. Dogs that can’t walk straight or have no response on one side often raise red flags for us.

Imaging (MRI or CT Scan)

This is where things get real. We often need an MRI or CT scan to confirm a stroke and rule out other issues like brain tumors. It’s not cheap, but it gives us a clear look at the brain’s structure and any affected areas.

One Golden Retriever I helped care for came in with a head tilt and drooling. Her owner thought she was just nauseous, but our neurologist ordered an MRI—and sure enough, there was a small clot near the brainstem. Catching that early made all the difference in her recovery plan.

Blood Work and Additional Tests

To understand what caused the stroke in the first place, we usually run full blood panels, check blood pressure, and look for signs of underlying issues like kidney or heart disease. It’s not just about the “what”—it’s about the “why.”

Stroke Recovery in Dogs: What to Expect

This is the part most people ask me about right after the diagnosis: “Will my dog be okay?” And honestly, the answer depends. I’ve seen some dogs bounce back beautifully, and others who needed ongoing support. But here’s the good news—recovery is very possible, especially with early treatment and lots of TLC.

Vet Treatment and Support

Depending on the severity, your vet may recommend hospitalization, fluids, anti-inflammatories, or meds to address the underlying cause (like blood thinners or blood pressure medication). If seizures are part of the picture, anticonvulsants may be added too.

Home Care and Rehabilitation

This is where you come in. Recovery doesn’t stop at the clinic. Dogs recovering from a stroke may need help walking, navigating stairs, or even eating if they have facial weakness. Here are a few things I often recommend to clients:

• Provide traction – Rugs, yoga mats, or booties can help your dog avoid slips and falls.
• Limit stress – Keep noise and visitors to a minimum for a while.
• Use food puzzles or hand-feeding – If your dog has trouble eating or swallowing.
• Massage and gentle PT – With guidance from your vet, this can aid muscle tone and coordination.

I remember helping a little Dachshund named Bruno who couldn’t stand after his stroke. His owner made him a cozy little recovery pen with soft bedding, a ramp, and rolled towels to support his body. After a few weeks of gentle massage and hand-feeding, Bruno started walking again. He never quite ran the same, but he was happy—and that’s what matters.

Diet and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think

As someone who focuses on veterinary nutrition, I can’t stress this enough—what your dog eats matters during recovery. A stroke stresses the entire body, not just the brain. Proper nutrition supports healing, immunity, and overall strength.

Depending on the underlying cause of the stroke, your vet might recommend:

• Low-sodium diets – For dogs with high blood pressure or heart issues
• Renal-support diets – If kidney function is involved
• Antioxidant-rich foods – Think omega-3s, vitamin E, and B vitamins

I usually work with pet parents to build a custom feeding plan during recovery. Even little tweaks, like switching treats or adding supplements, can boost progress. And always, always check before giving your dog any new food or supplement post-stroke. Some things that are safe for healthy dogs might not be safe for a recovering pup.

Long-Term Outlook and Quality of Life

The big question after a stroke is: will my dog have a good life? In many cases, the answer is yes. It might look different—maybe your pup walks a bit slower, or gets tired more easily—but dogs are resilient. They don’t worry like we do; they just adapt.

That said, you’ll need to keep a closer eye on them moving forward. Dogs who’ve had one stroke are at higher risk for another. This means regular checkups, managing any chronic conditions, and watching for early signs of trouble.

One of my favorite success stories is a little mixed-breed named Toby. He had a stroke at age 10 and could barely walk for weeks. His owners were devastated. But with a solid care routine, meds, and lots of love, Toby celebrated his 14th birthday chasing squirrels—albeit a little lopsidedly. And honestly? He didn’t seem to mind one bit.

Preventing Strokes in Dogs: What You Can Do Now

So now that you know how to spot signs of a stroke in dogs and what recovery can look like, let’s talk prevention. Because as much as I’ve seen dogs bounce back from strokes, I’ve also seen what they—and their families—go through. And if there’s even a chance to prevent that? You bet we’re taking it.

Now, here’s the honest truth: you can’t prevent every stroke. Some happen suddenly, with no warning. But there’s a lot you can do to reduce the risk, especially if your dog has any of the common underlying conditions we talked about earlier (high blood pressure, kidney issues, etc.).

1. Regular Vet Visits Are Non-Negotiable

This one sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many people skip checkups because their dog “seems fine.” Preventive care matters. Annual or bi-annual exams can catch issues like elevated blood pressure, heart murmurs, or changes in blood work before they become stroke triggers.

When I worked in the clinic, I had a sweet little senior Shih Tzu patient who came in every six months, like clockwork. We caught her high blood pressure early and adjusted her meds. Her vet always said, “If she weren’t so well-monitored, she could’ve been a stroke case.”

2. Keep Weight in Check

Obesity is a sneaky contributor to a whole list of health problems—diabetes, hypertension, heart disease—you name it. And all of those increase the risk of stroke. A healthy weight means a healthier cardiovascular system and less strain on vital organs.

If you’re not sure what your dog’s “ideal” weight is, your vet can help. You want to be able to feel their ribs (without them being too bony) and see a waist when you look from above.

3. Nutrition Plays a Bigger Role Than You Might Think

As someone with a nutrition background, I could talk about this all day (and often do!). Your dog’s food isn’t just fuel—it’s medicine, especially when it comes to stroke prevention. Here are a few guidelines I always share with clients:

• Choose high-quality food with whole protein sources, balanced fats, and limited fillers
• Talk to your vet about supplements—omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and support brain health
• Watch sodium intake if your dog has heart or kidney issues
• Hydration matters—dehydration can impact blood flow and blood pressure

And skip the table scraps—especially anything salty, fatty, or heavily processed. Your dog’s body isn’t built for that kind of food, and over time it can contribute to metabolic issues that raise stroke risk.

When It’s Not a Stroke: Other Conditions That Mimic the Signs

Let’s circle back to something I mentioned in Part 1—stroke mimics. I can’t tell you how many worried owners came in convinced their dog had a stroke, only for it to be something else. That’s not to say it’s no big deal—many of these conditions still need urgent care—but they’re different animals (pun intended), and they’re usually more treatable.

Vestibular Disease

This one’s a biggie, especially in older dogs. Vestibular disease can cause sudden loss of balance, head tilt, and rapid eye movement—sound familiar? It looks exactly like a stroke, but it’s usually not life-threatening and often improves within days or weeks. The cause can be inner ear issues, inflammation, or idiopathic (which is just vet-speak for “we don’t know why”).

Seizures or Postictal Phase

Some dogs act very strange after a seizure—they may seem disoriented, stumble, or stare blankly. That’s called the postictal phase. It can last minutes or even hours and looks eerily like stroke symptoms. If your dog has a known seizure disorder, you’ll learn to recognize the difference.

Brain Tumors

It’s not what anyone wants to hear, but brain tumors can mimic strokes too. They can press on areas of the brain responsible for balance, movement, and personality. Diagnosis usually requires imaging like MRI. This is why a complete vet workup is essential—you need to know what you’re actually dealing with.

Living With a Dog Who’s Had a Stroke

Alright, let’s get real for a sec. If your dog’s already had a stroke, life’s going to change—but it doesn’t mean it’s over. Dogs are *masters* of adapting, and with the right care, they can still have a joyful, full life. It just might mean a new normal.

Mobility Aids and Environmental Changes

Depending on the aftereffects, your pup might need some help getting around. Ramps, non-slip mats, raised bowls, and orthopedic beds can make a huge difference. Even simple things like keeping food and water close by or blocking off stairs can prevent falls and frustration.

Schedule and Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and post-stroke recovery is no different. Stick to regular feeding times, consistent walks (even if they’re short), and a predictable daily rhythm. It helps them feel secure and gives their brain structure to work with.

Emotional Support—For Both of You

I’m not going to sugarcoat it—watching your dog recover from a stroke is hard. It’s emotional. It can be frustrating. And it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. But dogs are incredibly in tune with us. They’ll feed off your calm and your patience. Celebrate every small win. That first tail wag, that first step without help—it matters.

And don’t be afraid to lean on your vet team. I’ve cried with clients in the back room more times than I can count. You’re not alone in this.

Resources and Further Reading

• PetMD – Comprehensive pet health articles, including stroke in dogs
• American Kennel Club (AKC) – Trusted resource for breed-specific health advice
• Health.com – Nutrition and health tips that can be adapted for pets with guidance
• NIH – General brain health and stroke research

Disclaimer

This article is based on personal experience as a veterinary assistant and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke or displaying any unusual symptoms, please seek immediate care from a licensed veterinarian.