Canine Concussion: Reading Signs Correctly

A small fall of the four-legged friend is usually not a problem. The case is different with a severe blow to the head region, which can lead to a concussion in the dog. This is particularly problematic if the symptoms do not appear until later. Therefore, this article explains which signs already show in advance that something is wrong with the fur nose.

Signs Your Dog Has a Concussion

• The thick top of the skull of the four-legged friend protects against serious consequences in the event of light falls and bumps.
• There are mild and severe concussions in dogs.
• The strength of the blow and the local positioning of the point of impact is responsible for the severity.
• In smaller breeds and puppies, one step is enough to trigger a traumatic brain injury.

What Happens to the Dog If There is a Concussion?

To find out how a shock occurs in the dog’s head, you first need to know what it looks like inside. In four-legged friends, the brain is not only shielded by the roof of the skull. A liquid also provides protection. It is located between the brain and the top of the skull. In the event of an impact, fall, or collision, the dog’s brain hits the inner skullcap. This can damage the tissues of the brain. If the head is hit very hard, the dog’s brain will even swell. For this reason, it is very important to watch your four-legged friend closely after a collision.

Causes of a Concussion in Dogs

The most common cause of a concussion is a head injury in a dog. This can be caused by various accident situations. These include, for example:

• The dog hits its head while playing and romping on a piece of furniture. Alternatively, a strong collision with a tree, a bicycle, or a car is also conceivable.
• If the dog falls from a height, it can also result in a traumatic brain injury. If you fall from a great height, you should go to the veterinarian immediately.
• If the dog has run into a glass door, this collision will trigger a mild or severe concussion, depending on its severity.
• If a puppy falls on its head, every minute counts. The little fur noses quickly lose consciousness. This can be a sign of brain swelling that needs treatment right away.
• A concussion is very common when a dog (as a passenger) is involved in a car accident. The hard impact in the footwell can lead to severe traumatic brain injury.

Symptoms of a Concussion in Four-Legged Friends

The signs of a concussion can look like this:

• Disturbed sense of balance and orientation;
• Insecurity and confusion;
• Different sized or dilated pupils;
• Flickering eyes;
• Stiff or limp limbs;
• Tremors or rapid breathing;
• Nose or ear bleeding;
• Fits and/or convulsions;
• Vomit.

If You Suspect, Go to the Veterinarian Immediately

In principle, it is not recommended to try to help your four-legged friend on your own. Only a veterinarian can estimate how severe the blow to the head or the fall was. It is also important to clarify whether any consequential damage will remain in the event of, particularly serious accidents. If you suspect a concussion in your dog, it makes sense to see your vet. It is advisable to bring a second person with you to monitor your four-legged friend. A warm blanket ensures that he feels a little more comfortable. It is important that the head is a little higher than the hind legs. In this way, any pressure in the head can be relieved a little while driving.