In dogs, epilepsy is a disease in which the affected dog suffers from recurring seizures. It can affect dogs anywhere from six months to five years of age, though it usually occurs in dogs who are between two and three years of age. Fortunately, canine epilepsy can be controlled with anti-seizure medications or treatments for the underlying cause of canine epilepsy.
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Genetic
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There are some breeds of dog in which canine epilepsy may be genetic, or due to malformations of a specific gene. This includes many different breeds including Beagles, Belgian Tervurens, Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, Keeshonds, Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, Saint Bernards and Wire haired Fox Terriers.
Hypothyroidism
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Many owners are surprised to hear that hypothyroidism is the underlying cause of their dog̵7;s epilepsy. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland malfunctions--either due to issues with the thyroid gland itself or with signals being sent to the thyroid gland from the brain. When hypothyroidism is due to signal malfunction of the brain, it can result in the recurring seizures associated with canine epilepsy.
Heart Disease
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Dogs with heart disease may have an increased risk of developing epilepsy. This is because the heart is unable to properly pump adequate levels of nutrition or oxygen to the brain, resulting in increased cell activity in the brain, thus resulting in epileptic seizures.
Estrogen
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For some unknown reason, female dogs seem to be more prone to suffer from epilepsy in comparison to male dogs. Estrogen seems to increase the chances of a seizure, so female dogs who are in heat or entering a seasonal heat may suffer from recurring seizures.
Toxins
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Dogs who are continuously exposed to toxins can develop epilepsy. This can be frustrating for the owner, especially if the owner is unaware of what toxin the dog may be encountering. Toxins can include anything from lawn pesticides, certain medications, plants found inside and outside of the home, or chemicals such as antifreeze. Fortunately, once the toxin is identified and removed and the dog receives the appropriate treatment, the seizures will taper off.
Trauma
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Direct physical trauma to the brain can also cause canine epilepsy. Even a small portion of damage can result in changes in cell behavior in the brain. This can result in epileptic seizures for the affected dog.
Idiopathic Epilepsy
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For the majority of dogs, epilepsy is idiopathic. Idiopathic is a term used to describe epilepsy that has no known cause. Likely these dog will undergo several tests to determine if there is an underlying cause and the veterinarian will be unable to find one.
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