Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Can dogs with vision loss experience phantom sights or hallucinations?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Can Dogs experience CHARLES BONNET SYNDROME Hallucinations?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Sara Farmer, DVM

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 18, 2019

I can't find any reports of suspected Charles Bonnet Syndrome in dogs, and I suppose there would be no way to know for certain if dogs with vision loss are hallucinating. It is certainly reasonable that this could happen since I believe there is thought that the hallucinations are related to the lack of stimulation of certain nerves. I do feel like dogs with vision loss are easily startled which could look like a hallucination.
Vote Icon5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button