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My dog suddenly had cramps, fell, and shook. Is it a seizure?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 3 months old | 99 lbs

We have 3-year-old jack russel terrier girl. The dog seemed to be totaly healthy, but suddenly 3 days ago she got attack with strong cramps, fell down and couldn't move normally, cause her legs seemed to be really weak. It was very frightening and continued about 5 minutes and after it she was shaking a little bit, but she seemed to be fine. Right now she behaves like totaly healthy dog. She eats normally and is active like before. What it could be? How serious it could be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2018

Hello. This sounds very suspicious of a seizure. The average age of onset of seizure activity for epileptic dogs is from 2-4 years of age. Since this is a first time occurrence...or the first that you have witnessed....you may have to wait and see if it happens again. It may help your veterinarian if you can video the episode if it happens again. It is always a good idea to have your veterinarian examine her to make sure there are no other problems and discuss the possibility of seizures. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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