What Can Cause a Stroke in a Dog? Understanding the Risks and Warning Signs

Have you ever worried about your furry friend having a stroke? It’s a scary thought but understanding what causes strokes in dogs can help you protect your pet and recognize when they need immediate medical attention. As a dog parent I’ve researched extensively about this topic to share with fellow pet lovers.

Understanding Canine Strokes

Just like in humans, a stroke in dogs occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This happens in one of two ways:

1. Ischemic Strokes These happen when blood vessels in the brain become blocked by blood clots, tumor cells clumps of platelets, bacteria or parasites. This type makes up the majority of strokes in dogs.

2. Hemorrhagic Strokes These occur when blood vessels rupture, causing bleeding in the brain swelling and increased pressure.

In both cases, the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to brain cell death and neurological problems.

Common Causes of Strokes in Dogs

While approximately 50% of canine strokes have no identifiable underlying cause, several health conditions can increase the risk. Here are the most common causes:

Underlying Health Conditions

• Kidney Disease: Poor kidney function can affect blood pressure and circulation
• Cushing’s Disease: Excess cortisol production can damage blood vessels
• Hypertension: High blood pressure is a major risk factor
• Diabetes: Blood sugar issues can damage blood vessels over time
• Heart Disease: Cardiac problems can lead to blood clots
• Bleeding Disorders: These can increase the risk of hemorrhagic strokes
• Hypothyroidism: Can affect blood cholesterol levels and circulation
• Cancer: Certain cancers can increase stroke risk through various mechanisms

Breed Predispositions

While strokes can affect any dog, some breeds appear more susceptible:

• Greyhounds: These dogs have a higher documented incidence of strokes
• Miniature Schnauzers: Though not as well documented in research, veterinary neurologists observe more strokes in this breed
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: Their predisposition to heart issues increases stroke risk
• Brachycephalic breeds: Dogs with flat faces may be more prone to strokes
• Greyhounds and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: These breeds have higher rates of underlying conditions that contribute to stroke risk

Age Factors

Middle-aged to senior dogs are more likely to experience strokes, similar to humans. As dogs age, their risk of developing the underlying conditions mentioned above increases.

Warning Signs: How to Recognize a Stroke in Your Dog

Strokes occur suddenly without warning. Here are the key symptoms to watch for:

Forebrain Stroke Symptoms

• Circling in one direction
• Sudden seizures
• Unexpected behavior changes
• Head pressing against walls or objects
• Acute blindness

Brainstem and Cerebellum Stroke Symptoms

• Vestibular symptoms (head tilt, loss of balance)
• Weakness on one side of the body (hemiparesis)
• Hypermetria (exaggerated stepping)
• Head tremors (different from seizures)
• Severe mental status changes
• Spinning in circles due to one-sided weakness

Spinal Cord Stroke Symptoms

• Partial loss of motor function (paresis)
• Complete paralysis (plegia) in hind limbs or all four limbs

Conditions That Mimic Stroke Symptoms

It’s important to note that some conditions can look like a stroke but are actually something else:

Idiopathic Vestibular Disease (IVD)

This condition affects older dogs and those with chronic ear infections. Symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Head tilt
• Loss of balance
• Falling to one side
• Circling
• Walking difficulties
• Abnormal eye movements

While IVD symptoms look similar to stroke symptoms, IVD is not life-threatening and often resolves on its own. Sadly, many dogs are euthanized prematurely because owners mistake IVD for a stroke.

Syncope (Fainting)

Fainting episodes can sometimes be confused with strokes, but they have different causes related to blood flow to the entire body rather than just the brain.

What To Do If You Suspect a Stroke

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, here’s what you should do:

1. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately – Time is critical!
2. Keep your dog calm and still to prevent injuries from disorientation
3. Be prepared for diagnostic tests including:
   • Physical examination
   • Blood work
   • MRI or CT scan
   • Blood pressure checks
   • Cardiac evaluation (ECG, cardiac ultrasound)
   • Blood clotting analysis

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment for canine strokes focuses on:

1. Managing underlying causes: Your vet will prescribe appropriate medications based on the diagnosis
2. Supportive care: This may include IV fluids, hospitalization, and assistance with feeding
3. Rehabilitation: Physical therapy can help dogs regain strength and mobility

Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook

The good news is that many dogs have a better recovery from strokes than humans do! The prognosis depends on:

• Type and severity of the stroke
• Underlying medical conditions
• How quickly treatment was received
• Quality of supportive care

Many dogs make remarkable recoveries with proper veterinary care and support. Even dogs with significant neurological deficits can adapt well and maintain a good quality of life.

Can You Prevent Strokes in Dogs?

While you can’t prevent all strokes (especially since half have no identifiable cause), you can reduce risk by:

• Maintaining regular veterinary check-ups
• Feeding a balanced diet
• Keeping your dog at a healthy weight
• Increasing vet visits as your dog ages
• Managing any underlying conditions properly

Creating a Safe Recovery Environment

If your dog is recovering from a stroke, here’s how to help:

• Create a safe space: Remove hazards and use baby gates to block stairs
• Provide mobility assistance: Use slings or harnesses to help with balance
• Follow medication schedules: Administer all medications as prescribed
• Maintain consistency: Keep feeding times and daily routines predictable
• Monitor for changes: Watch for any new symptoms or improvements

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

• Any sudden neurological symptoms
• Changes in behavior or mental status
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Head tilt or abnormal eye movements
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Seizures

My Personal Experience

When my neighbor’s Golden Retriever suddenly started walking in circles and couldn’t seem to maintain balance, we feared the worst. The emergency vet diagnosed a mild ischemic stroke, likely related to an undiagnosed heart condition. With medication and physical therapy, Max made an almost complete recovery within a few weeks. His case taught me how important quick action is – the faster you get veterinary help, the better the chances for recovery.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what can cause a stroke in dogs helps us be better prepared to protect our furry family members. While strokes can be frightening, many dogs recover well with proper care. The key is recognizing the symptoms early and seeking immediate veterinary attention.

Remember that while this information is helpful, it’s not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you suspect your dog has had a stroke, don’t hesitate – get to a veterinarian right away. Your quick action could make all the difference in your dog’s recovery.

Has your dog ever experienced stroke-like symptoms? What was your experience like? I’d love to hear your stories and answer any questions you might have about this important health topic.

Strokes in dogs are caused by a disruption of blood flow to the brain, resulting from either a blocked blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Common underlying causes include heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), Cushing’s disease, diabetes, and cancer.

The three main types of strokes are ischemic strokes, caused by blocked blood flow to the brain (often due to blood clots or atherosclerosis), and hemorrhagic strokes, caused by bleeding in or around the brain from a ruptured blood vessel. The third, a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), is often called a “mini-stroke” and involves a temporary blockage of blood flow that resolves on its own.

While direct causal evidence is limited, chronic stress can harm a dog’s cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and blood vessel hardening, which are known risk factors for stroke in humans and potentially dogs. Strokes in dogs typically result from blocked or ruptured blood vessels in the brain, often due to underlying conditions, but reducing stress can contribute to overall brain health and may help prevent strokes.