Canine epilepsy is one of the most common nervous system disorders, affecting approximately 3-5% of all dogs. It is a chronic condition in which a dog experiences recurrent seizures (convulsions). Although epilepsy in dogs may seem scary, with proper diagnosis and treatment, your pet can live a full and happy life.
The most important things are knowledge, adequate care during a crisis and close cooperation with the veterinarian.
What is epilepsy in dogs?
Epilepsy in dogs is a brain disease characterized by recurrent seizures. They occur when the balance between excitatory and inhibitory nerve impulses is disturbed. Brain neurons become overly active, causing a “storm” of electrical impulses that manifests as seizures.
A seizure is not a random event: if a dog has repeated seizures, it is considered to have epilepsy.
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Types and causes of epilepsy in dogs
Epilepsy in dogs can manifest itself in different forms, depending on the causes that trigger it:
- Primary (idiopathic) epilepsy in dogs it is most often associated with genetics and occurs in young dogs (1-3 years old). This form is more common in Beagles, Belgian Shepherds, Retrievers, Poodles, Border Collies, etc. Dogs diagnosed with this disease should not be bred.
- Secondary (symptomatic) epilepsy in dogs – caused by brain damage (tumors, trauma, stroke, hydrocephalus (also known as water in the brain).
- Reactive epilepsy in dogs – caused by external/environmental factors: poisoning, complications of canine diabetes, liver or kidney disease, infections (e.g. distemper) or tick-borne diseases (e.g. babesiosis or anaplasmosis).
How to recognize the symptoms of epilepsy in dogs?
Symptoms of epilepsy in dogs can range from barely noticeable behavioral changes to severe seizures. It is important for owners to notice the first signs in time.
The most common early signs of epilepsy in dogs
Usually, the first signs appear before the crisis. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Restlessness, anxiety attacks.
- Sudden changes in behavior (hide, seek attention).
- Increased salivation.
- Unusual look.
What does a dog’s seizure look like? Phases and symptoms
A dog’s epileptic seizure usually occurs in several stages, which are easy to recognise:
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- Preepileptic phase – the dog becomes restless, seeks attention or hides, often evident several hours before the crisis.
- Epilepsy aura – begins a few seconds or minutes before convulsions; noticeable changes in behavior.
- Seizure phase – the dog may fall on its side, shake its paws, drool profusely, lose consciousness and sometimes urinate.
- Post-epileptic phase – the dog is exhausted, disoriented, sometimes aggressive or very hungry.
When does an epileptic seizure become dangerous?
Status epilepticus is an extremely dangerous condition in which a seizure lasts more than 2 minutes or seizures recur without interruption. In these cases it is necessary to contact a veterinarian immediately.
Begemotas Veterinary Clinic accepts such patients without an appointment. In case of emergency, contact us.
Generalized and focal seizures
It is also important to know that not all dogs with epilepsy suffer from severe seizures that affect the entire body. Seizures are classified as:
- Generalized convulsionsaffecting both hemispheres of the brain, often accompanied by loss of consciousness (fainting)
- Focal seizuresoccurring only in a specific part of the brain, they can manifest as twitching of the muzzle muscles, blinking, or repeated episodes of strange behavior. Sometimes focal seizures progress to generalized seizures.
The importance of guest comments
It is very important that the owner records the course of the seizures. If possible, videotape your dog during a seizure. This provides the veterinarian with accurate information and helps select the appropriate treatment.
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What to do if your dog starts having seizures?
Seizures in dogs can be scary, but the most important thing is to stay calm and respond appropriately. There are several clear steps you can take to protect your dog from injury.
First aid during an epileptic seizure
These actions can help reduce the risk and alleviate the condition during an attack:
- Move all nearby objects so that the dog does not get hurt.
- Place a soft cloth under his head.
- Make sure the dog can breathe freely.
- Track time — this is important information for your veterinarian.
If the seizure lasts more than 2 minutes or recurs several times in a row, contact your vet immediately.
What to avoid during an epileptic seizure?
It is very important to know not only what to do, but also what mistakes to avoid. The following actions should not be taken:
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- Don’t put your hands in the dog’s mouth – could accidentally bite you.
- Do not try to stop seizures by force.
- Do not hold or shake your dog.
Treatment Options for Epilepsy in Dogs and Veterinary Care
Epilepsy in dogs is a chronic disease, so treatment is not focused on complete cure, but on controlling seizures and ensuring the dog’s quality of life.
Medicines and long-term care
Antiepileptic drugs (phenobarbital, potassium bromide, diazepam) are medications for epilepsy in dogs that help reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures. Medicines can only be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.
- Treatment is long-term, lifelong. Usually, treatment is administered throughout the dog’s life, and doses of the drug can be adjusted based on the response and age of the animal.
- It is important to check your dog’s health regularly and adjust drug doses.
Veterinarians recommend keeping a seizure diary, noting the date, duration and symptoms. This often helps identify the type of seizures and environmental factors that can cause seizures.
The most important thing is not to stop giving medications yourself, do not be afraid to ask questions to the veterinarian and constantly monitor the condition of your pet.
Lifestyle changes in dogs with epilepsy
In addition to medications, adequate daily care is also important. May help reduce the risk of seizures:
- Eat regularly and go for walks.
- Avoid stress, fatigue and overheating.
- Don’t forget preventive health checks.
Situations in which it is necessary to urgently contact a veterinary clinic due to dog epilepsy
You need to go to a veterinary clinic immediately if:
- The seizure lasts more than 2 minutes;
- The seizures recur the same day;
- The dog does not regain alertness after the crisis and remains apathetic;
- New symptoms appear (eg, paralysis, vomiting, severe weakness).
Living with canine epilepsy
Dog epilepsy is not a life sentence – it is a challenge that can be managed. A close bond between owner and pet, patience and medical care allow you to enjoy the good days, even if there are occasionally “bad days”.
At Begemotas Veterinary Clinic, expert veterinarians diagnose, treat and help dogs with epilepsy to live full lives. Make an appointment at our clinic and together we will find the best solution for your pet.
¹ BMC Veterinary Research, 2015.
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