Hypoglycemia & Seizures in Dogs

Chihuahuas are prone to hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia---an abnormally low concentration of sugar in the blood---can potentially kill a dog or puppy. Mar Vista Animal Medical Center in Los Angeles notes that this condition more often happens to toy-size dog breeds such as the Maltese or Chihuahua than to larger dogs. Seizures are a sign of hypoglycemia.

Significance

Seizures are a particularly bad sign in hypoglycemic dogs or puppies. Before that, the dog should have had coordination problems, collapsed or become listless.

Identification

Dogs or puppies may have head tremors in the early stages of a hypoglycemic attack. If left untreated, the seizures will get worse and spread to the entire body.

First Aid

According to veterinarian Debra Primovic, any dog suspected of having a hypoglycemic attack should have its gums rubbed with Karo syrup. Do not give the syrup if the dog's seizures are so bad that it cannot swallow.

Time Frame

Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook notes that the first signs of canine hypoglycemia occur in puppies from 6 to 12 weeks old. It is possible for adult dogs to develop hypoglycemia.

Treatment

There is no cure for hypoglycemic seizures in dogs. But the dog can still live a long life with proper diet and with an emergency treatment of glucose or Karo syrup on hand.

References

• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook (Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al; 2007)
• Hypoglycemia in Dogs by Dr. Debra Primovic
• Mar Vista Animal Medical Center: Toy Breed Hypoglycemia

Resources

• Why Does My Dog Have Seizures?
• DogChannel.com
• Canine Guardian Angels: Hypoglycemia -- Low Blood Sugar