Chihuahuas don't have many genetic defects, but they are prone to a few that can cause seizures. These include hypoglycemia, hydrocephalus and epilepsy. Epilepsy is the name veterinarians give a seizure disorder when no cause can be found. It's one of the most common neurological problems in dogs.
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Psychomotor Epilepsy
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Psychomotor seizures occur in the part of the brain that controls emotions and behavior. Your dog may howl, snap, run uncontrollably, engage in repetitive behavior or vomit. Afterwards, the dog may seem disoriented for several minutes or even hours.
What To Do
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Make sure your dog is safe and won't fall down the stairs, get tangled in an electrical cord or injure itself on a sharp corner. Observe what it does during its seizure. Note how long the seizure lasts. This is important information for your vet.
Effects
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Seizures can cause brain damage and stress the organs. Epilepsy tends to get worse over time, especially if it's not treated. However, most dogs can lead a fairly normal life if treated.
Treatment
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Seizures can be controlled with medication. Phenobarbital is the drug most commonly prescribed.
Emergencies
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If your dog has non-stop seizures for five minutes or more, or more than three seizures in a 24-hour period, take it to the vet immediately.
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