Health Condition

Epilepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures.

Detailed Description

Idiopathic epilepsy is presumed to have a genetic basis in many breeds, though the exact mutation is often unknown. Seizures typically begin in young adulthood and can vary in frequency and severity. Diagnosis is by exclusion of other causes.

Common Symptoms

Generalized tonic-clonic seizures
Paddling
Drooling
Loss of consciousness

Management Options

Lifelong anticonvulsant medication
Monitoring and seizure diaries

Frequently Asked Questions

Is epilepsy inherited?

Evidence suggests a genetic component, but the exact mode is unclear.

Can affected dogs live normal lives?

Yes, with appropriate seizure control.

Should affected dogs be bred?

No, breeding is strongly discouraged.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

1–5 years

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Testing Available

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Diagnosing Methods

Clinical history; Exclusion of metabolic/toxic causes; MRI/CT; CSF analysis

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Preventative Measures

Do not breed affected dogs

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Related Conditions

Reactive seizures, Brain tumors

Affected Breeds

Barbet

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Estimated at 2–4% in breed club health surveys; slightly higher than average for medium-sized breeds.

Beagle

Prevalence: 5% Severity: 3/5

Beagles have a higher prevalence of idiopathic epilepsy than the general canine population, with most cases manageable by medication.

Belgian Laekenois

Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is a recognized concern in the Belgian Shepherd group, with a suspected genetic basis. First seizure episodes often occur in young adults.

Belgian Malinois

Prevalence: 2% Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is documented in Belgian Malinois with a higher than average risk compared to all breeds. Early diagnosis and consistent medication are important for quality of life.

Belgian Sheepdog

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Belgian Sheepdogs have a higher than average risk for idiopathic epilepsy among herding breeds. Seizures typically begin in young adulthood with no identifiable trigger.

Belgian Tervuren

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Higher than average risk; subtle behavioral changes, staring spells, and muscle twitching may precede seizures.

Collie

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is more common in Collies than in many other breeds, though specific mutations are not yet identified.

Deutscher Wachtelhund

Severity: 3/5

Average risk for medium sporting breeds; most dogs respond well to medication.

Drentsche Patrijshond

Prevalence: 2% Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is documented but not widespread in the breed; risk is average to slightly above average for medium sporting breeds.

Hamiltonstovare

Prevalence: 2.5% Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is estimated to affect 2–3% of Hamiltonstovare, with a slightly higher risk than average for medium/large scent hounds. First seizures typically occur between 1–5 years of age in otherwise healthy dogs.

Harrier

Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is rare but documented in Harriers; risk is considered average compared to other breeds.

Irish Setter

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Irish Setters have a higher than average risk of idiopathic epilepsy compared to the general dog population.

Keeshond

Prevalence: 4% Severity: 3/5

Keeshonden have a higher than average risk for idiopathic epilepsy, with familial clusters documented.

Kromfohrlander

Prevalence: 4% Severity: 3/5

Kromfohrlanders have a higher-than-average risk of idiopathic epilepsy compared to the general canine population. Familial clustering is observed.

Mudi

Prevalence: 4% Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is a notable concern in the Mudi, with a higher than average risk compared to the general canine population. First seizure episodes often occur in young adulthood (2–3 years).

Norwich Terrier

Prevalence: 5% Severity: 3/5

Norwich Terriers have a higher prevalence of idiopathic epilepsy compared to the general canine population, with onset typically in young adulthood.

Otterhound

Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is considered more common in Otterhounds than in the general dog population, with seizures typically beginning in young adulthood.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 3/5

Corgis have a slightly higher than average risk for idiopathic epilepsy among small breeds; seizures typically begin in young adulthood.

Pudelpointer

Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is uncommon but present in Pudelpointers. Sudden onset of seizures in otherwise healthy young adults may be an early sign.

Schipperke

Prevalence: 5% Severity: 4/5

Schipperkes have a higher than average risk for idiopathic epilepsy compared to the general dog population.

Shetland Sheepdog

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 3/5

Shelties have a higher than average risk for idiopathic epilepsy compared to the general canine population.

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 3/5

Estimated at 2-4% in the breed; average to slightly higher than general canine population.

Wetterhoun

Prevalence: 3.5% Severity: 3/5

Wetterhoun are recognized as having a breed predisposition, with a higher prevalence than the general canine population. Subtle pre-ictal behavioral changes such as restlessness or hiding may be early signs.

Wirehaired Vizsla

Severity: 3/5

Epilepsy is uncommon but significant in Wirehaired Vizslas. First seizure between 1-5 years in an otherwise healthy dog is a typical presentation.

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