Boxer Dog Seizures

Dog seizures may be due to various factors or may be idiopathic. Boxers seem to suffer from seizures more often than other dog breeds, which leads to the conclusion that the problem may be genetic. Seizures may not be treated, but can be controlled and prevented.

Causes of Seizures in Boxers

The causes of seizures in boxers may not always be clear. However, there are a number of factors that can cause regular seizures, including:

  • Head injuries
  • Poisoning
  • Parasitic infestations, at terminal stages
  • Epilepsy
  • Triggers such as noises, fireworks, car alarms, thunders
  • A tumor on the brain

Boxer dogs may have a genetic predisposition towards seizures, but specialists don’t have a clear explanation for this yet.

Signs of Seizures

Seizures in boxers may vary in intensity and length. Some seizures last only for seconds, while others may last for over 5 minutes. In either case, seeing your dog seize can be very scary.

A dog that is suffering a seizure will display a number of symptoms such as:

  • Sudden collapse
  • Open mouth and drooling
  • Staring at a fixed point
  • Twitching
  • Uncontrollable muscle movement
  • Unresponsiveness when called
  • Confusion
  • Rigid feet
  • Panting or even absence of breath for a few seconds
  • Enlarged pupils
  • Vomiting
  • Shaking

Diagnosing a Seizure

A seizure can be difficult to diagnose and predict. If you notice some of the above mentioned symptoms, the vet will perform a few tests to rule out possible head injuries, toxicity or parasitic infections that could cause seizures.

Treatment for Boxer Seizures

The vet cannot trigger a seizure and cannot tell you how often the seizures may occur. You will have to pay attention to your dog in the future and see if you can identify certain triggers. Avoiding these triggers is a step towards managing the seizures.

You will also have to notice how frequent the seizures are. Your dog may have a seizure per week or may have a seizure once per year.

If your pet has seizures more frequently than once per month, anti convulsive drugs will be prescribed. These drugs may prevent seizures in some cases, but you can expect to see rare episodes of seizures.

If your boxer dog has frequent seizures due to epilepsy or unknown causes, he shouldn’t be bred, as there are high chances that the puppies will inherit the condition.

How to Deal with a Seizure

If you see that your dog starts having a seizure, you will have to protect him from various sharp objects or dangers in the house.

Remove sharp objects, furniture or electronics from the dog’s area. Place a few soft pillows or blankets.

Stop any noises coming from the TV or radio and close windows, to reduce noises coming from outside.

Wait for the seizure to be over and cover the dog in a towel or blanket and use reassuring words.

 

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