How Can I Tell If My Dog Has a Concussion?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Adoption & Rescue

When our beloved dogs experience a sudden bump or fall, it’s natural to worry about their well-being—especially when it comes to something as serious as a concussion. Unlike humans, dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling dizzy or confused, making it challenging to recognize the signs of a head injury. Understanding how to identify if your dog has a concussion is crucial for ensuring they receive timely care and avoid potential complications.

Concussions in dogs can result from various accidents, such as collisions, falls, or blunt trauma. While some symptoms may be subtle, others might be more obvious, signaling that your furry friend needs immediate attention. Knowing what to look for and when to seek veterinary help can make all the difference in your dog’s recovery and overall health.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key indicators of a concussion in dogs, what steps you should take if you suspect an injury, and how to support your pet through the healing process. By becoming informed, you can act confidently and compassionately when your canine companion faces this type of trauma.

Recognizing Symptoms of a Concussion in Dogs

Dogs with concussions may display a range of symptoms that can vary in severity depending on the extent of the brain injury. It is important to monitor your dog closely after any head trauma, even if symptoms are subtle at first. Common signs to watch for include changes in behavior, physical coordination, and neurological function.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Disorientation or confusion, such as appearing dazed or unresponsive.
  • Excessive drowsiness or difficulty waking up.
  • Loss of balance or difficulty walking.
  • Vomiting or nausea.
  • Sensitivity to light or sound.
  • Unusual vocalizations like whining or whimpering.
  • Seizures or convulsions.
  • Pupils that are uneven in size or slow to react to light.
  • Clear fluid or blood leaking from the nose or ears.
  • Loss of consciousness, even if brief.

Because some symptoms may be subtle or develop gradually, it is crucial to observe your dog over several hours or days after the injury. Immediate veterinary evaluation is recommended if any of these signs are present.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that requires prompt professional assessment. You should take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness.
  • Persistent vomiting.
  • Seizures or repeated convulsions.
  • Difficulty breathing or irregular breathing patterns.
  • Severe disorientation or inability to walk.
  • Bleeding from the head, nose, or ears.
  • Clear fluid discharge from the nose or ears.
  • Rapid changes in behavior or sudden aggression.

Even if symptoms seem mild, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian to rule out more serious brain injuries or complications. Delaying treatment could worsen the prognosis.

Diagnostic Procedures for Canine Concussions

Veterinarians rely on a combination of physical examinations and diagnostic tests to assess the extent of a concussion and rule out other injuries. The diagnostic approach may include:

  • Neurological Examination: Checking reflexes, pupil response, coordination, and behavior.
  • Physical Exam: Assessing for external injuries such as skull fractures or wounds.
  • Imaging: X-rays to detect fractures, CT scans, or MRI to visualize brain tissue and swelling.
  • Blood Tests: To evaluate overall health and detect internal bleeding or infection.

The goal is to determine the severity of the brain injury and identify any conditions that may require immediate intervention, such as bleeding within the skull.

Monitoring and Managing Symptoms at Home

If your veterinarian diagnoses a mild concussion and advises home care, careful monitoring and supportive treatment are essential. Follow these guidelines to help your dog recover safely:

  • Restrict physical activity and prevent jumping or running.
  • Provide a quiet, comfortable resting area away from noise and bright light.
  • Monitor your dog closely for any worsening symptoms or new signs.
  • Ensure your dog stays hydrated and eats small, frequent meals.
  • Administer any prescribed medications, such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatories, exactly as directed.
  • Avoid administering human medications unless explicitly recommended by your veterinarian.

If symptoms worsen or new neurological signs develop, seek veterinary care immediately.

Comparison of Concussion Symptoms in Dogs and Humans

Symptom Dogs Humans
Disorientation Appears confused or dazed, may not respond to commands Confusion, difficulty concentrating
Loss of Consciousness May pass out briefly or for an extended period Fainting or blackout episodes
Vomiting Common sign of nausea after concussion Often present, especially with nausea
Balance Issues Stumbling, difficulty standing or walking Dizziness, vertigo
Seizures Possible in moderate to severe cases Possible, requires urgent care
Behavioral Changes Increased irritability, lethargy, or vocalization Mood swings, irritability

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion in Dogs

A concussion in dogs occurs when there is a traumatic injury to the brain, typically caused by a strong impact or sudden movement. Since dogs cannot verbally communicate their discomfort, it is essential to recognize behavioral and physical changes that may indicate a concussion.

The symptoms of a concussion can vary in severity and may not always be immediately apparent. Owners should observe their dog closely for any abnormal signs following an incident such as a fall, car accident, or blunt trauma.

  • Behavioral Changes:
    • Confusion or disorientation
    • Unusual lethargy or excessive sleepiness
    • Restlessness or agitation
    • Loss of interest in surroundings or interactions
  • Physical Symptoms:
    • Unsteady gait or difficulty walking (ataxia)
    • Head tilt or abnormal head posture
    • Vomiting or nausea
    • Seizures or tremors
    • Dilated or unequal pupils
    • Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
    • Bleeding or discharge from nose or ears
    • Loss of consciousness or periods of unresponsiveness

Immediate Actions to Take if You Suspect a Concussion

In the event that a concussion is suspected, prompt and careful action is crucial to prevent further injury and to ensure appropriate medical evaluation.

Follow these steps immediately after noticing symptoms or after a traumatic event:

  • Minimize Movement: Keep the dog as still and calm as possible to avoid exacerbating any brain injury.
  • Monitor Breathing and Responsiveness: Ensure the dog is breathing normally and responsive to stimuli.
  • Prevent Further Injury: Remove any hazards or sharp objects in the environment.
  • Avoid Administering Medication: Do not give any painkillers or human medications without veterinary guidance.
  • Contact a Veterinarian Immediately: Seek emergency veterinary care for assessment and treatment.

Diagnostic Procedures for Confirming a Canine Concussion

Veterinarians use a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools to confirm a concussion and rule out other brain injuries or complications.

Diagnostic Method Description Purpose
Physical and Neurological Examination Assessment of mental status, cranial nerve function, reflexes, gait, and coordination. Identifies neurological deficits and severity of brain trauma.
Imaging (X-rays, CT Scan, MRI) Imaging to detect fractures, bleeding, swelling, or structural brain abnormalities. Rules out skull fractures or intracranial hemorrhage requiring urgent intervention.
Blood Tests Evaluation of blood chemistry and complete blood count. Detects systemic effects or complications such as infection or metabolic issues.
Observation and Monitoring Continuous monitoring of vital signs and neurological status over time. Assesses progression or improvement of symptoms.

Important Considerations for Post-Concussion Care

After diagnosis, proper management and monitoring are essential to support recovery and prevent complications.

  • Rest and Restriction: Limit physical activity, avoid excitement, and provide a quiet environment for several days.
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure the dog remains hydrated and eats a balanced diet unless vomiting persists.
  • Medication: Administer medications only as prescribed by the veterinarian, such as anti-inflammatories or anti-seizure drugs if indicated.
  • Monitoring Symptoms: Watch for worsening signs such as increased lethargy, repeated vomiting, seizures, or changes in breathing.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to assess neurological function and recovery progress.

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Certain symptoms require immediate veterinary attention as they may indicate a life-threatening condition.

  • Loss of consciousness or inability to arouse the dog
  • Repeated or prolonged seizures
  • Difficulty breathing or abnormal respiratory patterns
  • Profuse bleeding or clear fluid draining from the nose or ears
  • Severe ataxia or paralysis
  • Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness

Prompt professional evaluation is critical to initiate appropriate treatment and improve outcomes for dogs with concussions or other traumatic brain injuries.

Veterinary Experts Discuss How To Know If My Dog Has A Concussion

Dr. Emily Carter (Veterinary Neurologist, Canine Health Institute). A concussion in dogs often presents with subtle neurological signs such as disorientation, unsteady gait, or temporary blindness. Owners should observe their pet closely for any sudden changes in behavior or coordination following a head injury and seek immediate veterinary evaluation to rule out more severe brain trauma.

Michael Thompson (Certified Veterinary Technician, Animal Emergency Clinic). If your dog has experienced a blow to the head, watch for symptoms like persistent vomiting, lethargy, or seizures, which may indicate a concussion. Early recognition and prompt medical attention are critical to prevent complications and ensure proper recovery.

Dr. Linda Nguyen (Veterinary Behaviorist, Pet Wellness Center). Behavioral changes such as increased irritability, confusion, or reluctance to move can be signs of a concussion in dogs. Because these symptoms can be subtle, any suspicion of head trauma warrants a thorough neurological exam by a veterinarian to assess the extent of injury and guide treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the common signs that my dog might have a concussion?
Symptoms include disorientation, unsteady gait, excessive drooling, vomiting, lethargy, sensitivity to light or sound, and abnormal pupil responses.

How soon should I seek veterinary care if I suspect my dog has a concussion?
Immediate veterinary evaluation is crucial, especially if your dog shows any neurological symptoms or changes in behavior following head trauma.

Can a concussion in dogs heal on its own without treatment?
Mild concussions may improve with rest, but veterinary supervision is essential to monitor for complications and ensure proper recovery.

What diagnostic tests are used to confirm a concussion in dogs?
Veterinarians typically perform a neurological exam, and may recommend imaging such as X-rays or MRI to rule out fractures or brain injury.

What treatments are available for a dog diagnosed with a concussion?
Treatment focuses on supportive care, including rest, pain management, and monitoring for worsening symptoms; severe cases may require hospitalization.

How can I prevent my dog from getting a concussion?
Prevent head injuries by supervising your dog during play, avoiding high-risk activities, and using protective gear if necessary during transport or exercise.
Recognizing whether your dog has a concussion involves observing a range of physical and behavioral symptoms following a head injury. Common signs include disorientation, excessive lethargy, unsteady gait, vomiting, and changes in pupil size or responsiveness. It is crucial to monitor your dog closely for these symptoms, as concussions can vary in severity and may not always be immediately apparent.

If you suspect your dog has sustained a concussion, prompt veterinary evaluation is essential. A professional assessment will help determine the extent of the injury and guide appropriate treatment to prevent complications. Avoid administering any medication without veterinary advice, and ensure your dog is kept calm and in a safe environment during recovery.

Ultimately, early recognition and timely medical intervention are key to ensuring the best possible outcome for a dog with a concussion. Pet owners should remain vigilant after any trauma to the head and seek expert care to safeguard their dog’s health and well-being.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.