Understanding Dog Seizures: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Watching your beloved dog experience a seizure can be one of the most distressing moments for any pet parent. The sudden onset, uncontrollable movements, and the uncertainty of what's happening leave many feeling anxious and helpless.

Dog seizures are more common than you might think, and understanding them is crucial for providing the best care for your furry friend. We unpack the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dog seizures, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this challenging situation and support your furry friend's well-being.

A Brief Summary

• Dog seizures can be caused by various factors, including epilepsy, toxins, and genetic predispositions, with certain breeds more susceptible due to mutations like MDR1.

• Recognizing seizure symptoms, such as sudden collapsing and muscle twitching, is crucial for prompt intervention and ensuring the dog's safety during episodes.

• Volhard Dog Nutrition offers online consultations to help dog parents understand the connection between diet and neurological health in managing and preventing seizures.

What Causes Dog Seizures?

Seizures occur due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and several factors can trigger them:

1. Epilepsy: This is one of the most common causes of seizures in dogs. Canine epilepsy is often a genetic condition where dogs experience recurrent seizures without an identifiable external trigger.
2. Toxins: Ingesting certain substances like chocolate, pesticides, or specific medications can lead to seizures. Toxins interfere with normal neurological functions, causing convulsions.
3. Head Trauma: Injuries to the head can damage brain tissue, leading to seizures either immediately after the trauma or as a long-term consequence.
4. Infections: Conditions such as encephalitis, distemper, or tick-borne diseases can inflame the brain and nervous system, triggering seizures.
5. Metabolic Disorders: Abnormalities in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), liver disease, or kidney dysfunction can disrupt regular brain activity, resulting in seizures.
6. Brain Tumors: Particularly in older dogs, tumors can press against or invade brain tissue, causing seizures.
7. Heat Stroke: Overheating can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may provoke seizures.
8. Nutritional Imbalances: Deficiencies or excesses in certain nutrients can affect neurological health, potentially leading to seizures.

Genetics and Breeds

Genetics plays a significant role in a dog's susceptibility to seizures. Certain breeds are predisposed to conditions like epilepsy due to inherited genetic factors.

The Multidrug Resistance Mutation 1 (MDR1) gene mutation affects breeds such as Australian Shepherds, Collies, and Sheepdogs. Dogs with this mutation are sensitive to specific medications, like ivermectin, which can accumulate in the brain and trigger seizures over time.

Parents of at-risk breeds should have their dogs tested for the MDR1 gene mutation. Avoiding medications and substances that can cause adverse reactions is essential in managing their health.

Environmental Triggers

The environment a dog is exposed to can significantly influence the likelihood of seizures.

Common environmental triggers include:

• Exposure to Toxins: Household chemicals, certain plants, and contaminated food or water can introduce toxins that lead to seizures.
• Stress and Anxiety: High-stress situations or sudden changes in the environment can trigger seizures in some dogs, especially those with existing neurological conditions.
• Dietary Factors: Foods containing harmful substances like theobromine (found in chocolate) or xylitol (a sugar substitute) are toxic to dogs and can cause seizures.
• Overstimulation: Flashing lights or loud noises might trigger seizures in dogs with photosensitive epilepsy.
• Medications: Certain drugs, particularly in dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation, can provoke seizures. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing new medications.

How to Recognize a Dog Seizure

Dog seizures can manifest in various forms, but common signs include sudden collapsing, jerking or twitching movements, stiffening of muscles, and loss of consciousness.

During a generalized (grand mal) seizure, a dog may fall over, paddle their legs uncontrollably, drool excessively, or even lose control of their bladder and bowels.

In contrast, focal seizures might present as localized muscle twitching, unusual movements in a specific part of the body, or changes in behavior like staring into space.

Some dogs exhibit pre-seizure behaviors such as restlessness, whining, or seeking attention before a seizure—this is known as the aura phase.

After the seizure, during the post-ictal phase, dogs may appear disoriented, unsteady, or temporarily blind.

Being attentive to these signs and keeping a first-aid kit on hand can help you respond appropriately and seek veterinary care when needed.

5 Effective Treatments for Dog Seizures

1. Medication Management: Anticonvulsant medications like phenobarbital and potassium bromide are commonly prescribed to control seizures. These drugs help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures by stabilizing neuronal activity in the brain.
2. Herbal Supplements: Natural remedies such as skullcap, valerian root, and passionflower may have calming effects on the nervous system. These herbs can sometimes support conventional treatments but should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.
3. CBD Oil: Emerging research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) oil may help decrease seizure frequency in some dogs. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating neurological functions.
4. Dietary Adjustments: Incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your dog's diet can support overall health. Ingredients like pumpkin are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which may contribute to better neurological function and digestion.
5. Avoiding Triggers: It is essential to identify and eliminate environmental factors that may provoke seizures. This includes reducing exposure to toxins, managing stress levels, and avoiding certain medications—especially in dogs with genetic sensitivities like the MDR1 gene mutation.

Managing and Preventing Seizures in Dogs

Effectively managing your dog's seizures involves more than just administering medication; it requires a well-rounded strategy that addresses various aspects of their health and environment. Regular veterinary visits are crucial to keep track of your dog's condition.

Nutrition plays a significant role in supporting your dog's neurological well-being. Providing a natural diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients can enhance their immune system and may help reduce seizure frequency.

Creating a stable, stress-free environment and ensuring your dog gets regular physical activity can help reduce seizure occurrences.

FAQs about Dog Seizures

1. Are Certain Breeds More Susceptible to Seizures Due to Genetic Factors Like the MDR1 Gene Mutation?

Yes, genetics can make certain breeds more prone to seizures.

Breeds like Beagles, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Border Collies have a higher incidence of genetic epilepsy.

Australian Shepherds, Collies, Sheepdogs, and other herding breeds commonly carry the MDR1 gene mutation. This mutation makes them sensitive to specific medications like ivermectin, which can accumulate in the brain and trigger seizures over time.

Parents of these breeds should have their dogs tested for the MDR1 gene mutation. If untested, medications known to be harmful to MDR1-affected dogs should be avoided, and natural alternatives for treatments for fleas, ticks, and deworming should be considered.

2. Are There Natural Alternatives to Traditional Medications for Dogs with the MDR1 Gene Mutation?

Certain medications can be harmful for dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation. Natural alternatives for flea, tick, and deworming treatments can help avoid adverse reactions. Herbal supplements like skullcap, valerian root, and passionflower may offer calming effects on the nervous system. Additionally, CBD oil has shown promise in reducing seizure frequency in some dogs.

3. How Can I Minimize Environmental Triggers to Prevent Seizures in My Dog?

Reducing exposure to potential environmental triggers can help prevent seizures. Keep your dog away from toxins such as pesticides, certain household chemicals, and toxic foods like chocolate. Maintain a stable and stress-free environment, as stress and anxiety can trigger seizures in some dogs.

Manage Your Dog’s Seizures Naturally with Volhard’s Holistic Solutions!

For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, contact us and check out our blog!

Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert canine nutrition coaches are now offering online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest foods!

Speaking to a Volhard canine nutrition coach will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind.

If you want to contact one of our Volhard canine nutrition coaches, don't hesitate to access our consultation page!

References

1. Podell, M. "Seizures in Dogs." Europe PMC, europepmc.org/article/med/8813750. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024.
2. Potschka, Heidrun, et al. "Naturally occurring epilepsy and status epilepticus in dogs." Models of Seizures and Epilepsy, 2017, pp. 387–398, https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-804066-9.00028-... Accessed 23 Sept. 2024.
3. "Seizure Disorders in Dogs." VIN, veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254099&Id=4951440. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024.
4. "Seizures in Dogs: VCA Animal Hospitals." Vca, vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/seizures-general-for-dogs. Accessed 23 Sept. 2024.