Affected Dogs

• Most often, the signs of peripheral vestibular syndrome occur in dogs between 12 and 13 years of age. However, it can affect dogs of any age.
  
  

Causes

• Peripheral vestibular syndrome can be caused by a variety of issues, including middle or inner ear infections, hypothyroidism, trauma, injury, tumors and cancer.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms of peripheral vestibular syndrome include head tilt, a general loss of balance, circling, stumbling when walking and an overall disorientation.
  
  

Diagnosis

• To diagnose canine vestibular disease, the veterinarian will perform several tests, including a physical examination, blood tests, biochemistry tests, urinalysis and, in some cases: x-rays, an MRI or a spinal tap.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment for canine peripheral vestibular syndrome involves treating the underlying condition. For example, if peripheral vestibular syndrome is being caused by an inner ear infection, then treating the infection will allow the vestibular syndrome to clear up.