Idiopathic generalized epilepsy in dogs refers to a seizure disorder in dogs. This seizure disorder has no known cause. Idiopathic generalized epilepsy can occur in any breed of dog at any age.
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Identification
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Idiopathic generalized epilepsy in dogs may be genetic. The breeds that are more likely to suffer from a seizure disorder are keeshonds, German shepherds, beagles, Irish setters, Saint Bernards, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, poodles, wirehair fox terriers, and Cocker spaniels.
Symptoms
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Some symptoms associated with idiopathic generalized epilepsy in dogs are falling over, uncontrollable barking, gnashing the teeth, twitching in one part of the face and paddling the limbs. During a seizure, a dog may not be able to control urination or defecation.
Cause
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Generalized idiopathic epilepsy has no known cause. It is important, however, to determine if there are any underlying diseases (such as brain tumors) that may cause seizures. In many dogs, the cause of seizures may never be determined.
Treatment
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The treatment plan for seizure disorders in dogs is to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. There are medications that may help to accomplish this goal. However, it is rare to totally eliminate all seizures in dogs.
Considerations
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If your dog suffers from a seizure disorder, it is important to monitor him carefully. Seizures that last longer than 10 minutes or that occur more than two times in a 24-hour period should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
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