Dog Breeds Prone to Seizures: Risks and Signs to Watch

Sharing a home with a dog is incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to understand your chosen breed’s health risks, including seizure disorders. Planning to get a dog? Discuss with your family, research thoroughly, and understand common health issues like seizures to ensure you provide the best care possible.

Breeds Prone to Seizures and Epilepsy

Certain dog breeds have a higher risk of seizure disorders, often linked to neurological or genetic factors such as idiopathic epilepsy. This means seizures can occur without a specific identifiable cause, making awareness essential for early intervention and care.

Here are key breeds commonly known to be more susceptible to seizures and epilepsy:

• Golden Retrievers
• Beagles
• Labrador Retrievers
• Shetland Sheepdogs
• Vizslas
• Keeshonds
• Belgian Tervurens
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Irish Wolfhounds
• English Springer Spaniels
• Finnish Spitz
• Border Collies
• Boxers
• Basset Hounds
• Border Terriers
• Cane Corso
• Yorkshire Terriers
• King Charles Spaniels
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• British Bulldogs

It's vital that any dog used in breeding programmes is health-tested for epilepsy and other conditions to help reduce familial risks. Seizures typically start appearing between 6 months and 5 years old, varying by breed and individual.

Recognising the Signs of a Seizure in Dogs

Spotting early signs of seizures can help you act swiftly and reduce the stress for your pet. Some dogs show an aura or focal onset, acting anxious, disorientated, or seeking comfort before a fit.

• Muscle twitching
• Loss of control over bladder or bowel
• Pacing or hiding
• Sudden collapse onto their side, stiffening
• Jaw chomping and excessive salivation
• Paddling movements of limbs

Seizures often happen when the dog is resting or asleep, commonly in the early morning or late at night. Each event may only last 30 seconds to a couple of minutes.

After a seizure, dogs might appear confused, thirsty, and hungry, with full recovery potentially taking up to 24 hours.

Managing and Caring for Dogs with Seizures

If your dog has a seizure, contact your vet promptly for diagnosis and treatment advice. While most dogs respond well to anti-seizure medication, repeated seizures can cause progressive brain damage, emphasising the importance of good management.

Responsible owners should maintain regular vet check-ups, record seizure occurrences, and ensure medication adherence. Breeders must test breeding stock to reduce passing epilepsy genetically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes epileptic fits in dogs?

Quick Answer: Epileptic fits in dogs are primarily caused by inherited neurological disorders such as idiopathic epilepsy, but can also be triggered by brain trauma, infections, or metabolic issues.

Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause in many seizure-prone breeds. Other causes include toxin exposure, brain tumours, and organ dysfunction. A vet will assess your dog to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How can I manage my dog's seizures at home?

Quick Answer: Managing seizures involves medication prescribed by a vet, careful observation, avoiding triggers, and ensuring a safe environment during and after episodes.

Keep detailed records of seizure frequency and duration, remove hazards, and do not panic during a seizure. Consult your vet regularly and never give human medication like paracetamol or calpol to dogs.

Where can I find a healthy puppy of a seizure-prone breed?

Quick Answer: It's best to find reputable breeders who test for genetic conditions and adhere to health screening protocols. Adopting from rescues is also a compassionate option.

Choosing a healthy puppy with clear health certifications can lower the risk of inherited conditions. For example, Golden Retriever puppies from reputable breeders offer transparency regarding health. Always ask for screening results and to meet the puppy’s parents.

Conclusion

While some dog breeds are more prone to seizures due to genetic and neurological factors, responsible ownership and proactive health management can greatly improve their quality of life. Recognising seizure signs early, working closely with your veterinarian, and choosing breeders who prioritise health testing are key steps in protecting your beloved canine companion.