Understanding Exercise-Induced Seizures in Dogs

Dogs with underlying conditions such as congestive heart failure and diabetes can collapse after a few minutes of intensive activity. Aside from any underlying conditions, dogs can also suffer seizures due to exercise-induced collapse.

Exercise-induced collapse is a genetic condition that causes progressive weakness in dogs. Dogs with exercise-induced collapse (EIC) often collapse after strenuous exercise.

Examples of exercises that may cause exercise-induced seizures are running, playing ball, intense training, or playing with other dogs. Let’s learn more about exercise-induced seizures and how to keep your dog active while avoiding seizures.

Exercise Can Occasionally Induce Seizures in Dogs

Aside from exercise-induced collapse, exercise can induce seizures in dogs if it triggers stress and overexertion. It can also trigger metabolic imbalances and underlying conditions like congestive heart disease.

Vigorous activity can also exacerbate low blood sugar in diabetic dogs. Providing hydration, moderating exercise intensity, and managing your dog’s medical conditions can help prevent exercise-induced seizures in dogs.

Symptoms of Exercise Induced Seizures in Dogs

Here are some of the symptoms you can look out for to identify exercise-induced seizures in dogs:

• Wide stance
• Muscle weakness in the hind legs
• Stumbling or lack of coordination
• Dragging hind legs
• Sudden collapse during exercise
• Tremors
• Foaming at the mouth
• Panting

Wide Stance

Your dog may adopt a wide stance for stability. This symptom indicates muscle weakness or disorientation. It is often a precursor to seizures triggered by underlying conditions.

Muscle Weakness in the Hind Legs

Weakness in the hind legs limits mobility. A dog experiencing such weakness may tremble or have difficulties standing. This symptom signals neurological or metabolic stress linked to exercise-induced seizures.

Stumbling or Lack of Coordination

Clumsy movement or loss of balance suggests disrupted brain signaling. This symptom is a pre-seizure sign observed during exercise.

Dragging Hind Legs

Dragging hind legs reflects severe weakness or hind leg paralysis. It is often a sign of oxygen deficiency during physical activity.

Sudden Collapse During Exercise

If your dog suddenly collapses during exercise, it indicates severe overexertion, cardiac issues, or an imminent seizure. If you observe this symptom, seek immediate veterinary intervention.

Tremors

Tremors or uncontrolled muscle twitching indicate neurological dysfunction. Tremors are often associated with the onset or aftermath of a seizure.

Salivation or Foaming at the Mouth

Excess salivation results from stress or involuntary muscle activity during a seizure.

Panting

Heavy panting signals distress and is observed before or after a seizure. It highlights the need for prompt vet intervention.

How to Get Your Dog Active While Avoiding Seizures?

Engage your dog in low-intensity activities such as gentle play and short walks. These activities are tailored to their health condition. Also, monitor fatigue and maintain hydration. Your vet may also recommend personalized exercises.

Are There Any Treatments for Exercise-Induced Dog Seizures?

There are no treatments available for exercise-induced dog seizures. However, there are various natural remedies that you can use to reduce seizures and calm your dog. Here are some of the natural remedies you can use:

Essential Fatty Acids

Pet owners and veterinarians recommend introducing fatty acids into a dog’s diet due to their holistic support and calming benefits. You can integrate fatty acids such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish, including tuna and herring.

CBD Oil

Early research shows that CBD oil could have some significant benefits to dogs with seizures, potentially reducing frequency and severity of seizures. Dog owners who have used CBD oil for this purpose often report positive benefits as well.

You can integrate CBD oil into your dog’s diet easily using a dropper or using CBD treats and chews. Consult with your veterinarian to identify a proper CBD dosage.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog active requires understanding their health needs and limits. You can balance exercise intensity and monitor for distress in dogs with exercise-induced seizures. Consult with your vet to discuss how you can improve your dog’s well-being while avoiding seizures.