Collapse and Weakness in Dogs

Watching your dog suddenly become weak or collapse is one of the scariest things a pet parent can experience. In those moments, it’s hard to know what’s happening or what to do first, but being prepared can make a big difference. In this article, we’ll walk through the possible causes of collapse and weakness, how to tell what’s serious, and what to expect when you get to the emergency clinic. While many health issues can wait for a regular vet visit, collapse or sudden weakness always deserves quick attention.

What Do We Mean by “Collapse” and “Weakness”?

• Weakness: Your dog may appear tired, stumble, have trouble standing, or seem less coordinated than usual.

• Collapse: A sudden loss of strength that causes your dog to fall or be unable to rise. Sometimes this lasts only seconds, other times longer.

Both can occur in otherwise healthy-appearing dogs, making awareness especially important.