Epilepsy(IE)
Also known as: Idiopathische Epilepsie · Idiopathic Epilepsy · Canine Epilepsy · Krampfanfälle · Epileptiforme Anfälle · …
Overview
What it is
Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of the brain and nervous system where abnormal electrical activity causes sudden, temporary disruptions in normal brain function. These disruptions lead to repeated seizures, which are involuntary changes in body movement, sensation, or behavior. Because the underlying cause is often complex, the brain's electrical signaling remains permanently prone to these sudden misfires.
How it presents
Symptoms typically first appear between 1 and 5 years of age. Owners will notice sudden, involuntary seizures that can involve muscle twitching, heavy drooling, paddling of the legs, and a loss of consciousness, followed by a period of temporary confusion or disorientation.
Treatment
While epilepsy is not curable, it is manageable with lifelong daily medication and regular veterinary checkups to monitor blood levels. Managing this condition over a dog's lifetime typically costs between €3,000 and €12,000.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
24 of 71 breeds
Mandatory testBriard
Mandatory testChow Chow
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Longhair)
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)
Mandatory testGerman Hound
Mandatory testGerman Roughhaired Pointer
Mandatory testGerman Shorthaired Pointer
Mandatory testGerman Spaniel
Mandatory testGrand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Mandatory testJagdterrier
Mandatory testKorean Jindo
Mandatory testLagotto RomagnoloMandated by Lagotto Romagnolo Wasserhunde Deutschland e.V.
Mandatory testMiniature American Shepherd
Mandatory testNorwegian Buhund
Mandatory testPekingese
Mandatory testSmooth-haired Dachshund
Mandatory testTibetan Spaniel
Mandatory testWire-haired Dachshund
RecommendedAustralian Shepherd
RecommendedAustrian Pinscher
RecommendedAzawakh
RecommendedBavarian Mountain Hound
RecommendedBeagle
RecommendedBeauceron
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of the brain and nervous system where abnormal electrical activity causes sudden, temporary disruptions in normal brain function. These disruptions lead to repeated seizures, which are involuntary changes in body movement, sensation, or behavior. Because the underlying cause is often complex, the brain's electrical signaling remains permanently prone to these sudden misfires.
How is Epilepsy tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Briard, Chow Chow, Dutch Shepherd (Longhair), Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired), German Hound, German Roughhaired Pointer, German Shorthaired Pointer, German Spaniel.