I’m feeling really worried about my 6-year-old pitbull, Max. Over the past week, he’s developed a habit of circling endlessly in our living room, and I’m not sure what’s causing it. I’ve uploaded some footage to give you a better idea of what I’m dealing with. It started out of the blue, and he doesn’t seem to be dizzy or disoriented, but it’s like he just can’t stop himself. He’s eating and drinking normally, and there’s nothing new or different in his environment that I can think of. I’m really concerned this could be some sort of neurological issue, but I’m not a vet. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their dog? Any advice or similar experiences would be so appreciated. Max is such a big part of our family, and seeing him like this is really unsettling. Thanks in advance for any help you can give.
Hello there! Thanks for reaching out with your concern about your furry friend. I understand how worrisome it can be when your dog starts exhibiting unusual behaviors like circling. There are a few reasons your pit bull might be doing this.
Sometimes, circling can be a sign of an ear infection or an issue with balance. Dogs might circle to try to release pressure in their ears. Other times, it could be related to neurological issues, such as head trauma or even a condition like canine cognitive dysfunction, which is similar to dementia in older dogs. Anxiety or compulsive behaviors may sometimes also lead to repetitive actions like circling.
At home, you can check for any signs of ear discomfort, like redness, swelling, or discharge. Keep your dog calm and try to distract them with their favorite toy or a gentle walk to help mitigate stress. Ensure they have a quiet, comfortable space to rest, as stress can exacerbate any underlying issues.
If your dog's circling is frequent, increasing, or accompanied by signs like vomiting, loss of balance, or changes in eating habits, it’s important to act quickly. These could be signs of a more serious issue that requires urgent attention.
I strongly encourage you to book a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to take a closer look at your footage and offer more specific guidance tailored to your dog's needs.
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