Why do dachshunds have seizures?


Quick Answer

According to Drs. Foster and Smith, dachshunds are a breed of dog that have a higher tendency to suffer from epileptic seizures compared to other dog breeds. The breed can inherit epilepsy from family lineage that passes the disorder from one generation to the next. Web MD points out that dogs also suffer seizures for other reasons; it is imperative to get a diagnosis from a veterinarian to determine the exact cause.

Continue Reading
Why do dachshunds have seizures?
Credit: Image by Erin Vey Moment Getty Images

Full Answer

Drs. Foster and Smith state that dogs with epilepsy can begin showing symptoms between the ages of six months and five years. An epileptic seizure is eminent when a dog displays signs of irritation, neediness for closeness or desire to be isolated. This period before a seizure is known as an aura.

During an epileptic seizure dogs display a number of symptoms including excessive drooling, muscle stiffness, jaw chomping, involuntary urination or defecation and jerky leg movements, according to Pet MD. The average seizure lasts between 30 to 90 seconds. It is common for dogs to have seizures while sleeping. Seizures are sometimes confused with restless dreaming. The difference between the two is that dogs are easily awakened from a dream state; they cannot be nudged out of a seizure.

Drs. Foster and Smith point out that treatments for dachshunds' seizures may involve a prescription for an anti-epileptic medication that reduces the risk of seizure. Dogs on seizure medication require close monitoring.

Learn more about Dogs

Related Questions