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My dog suddenly shook, curled up, and was unresponsive. Seizure?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 1 month old

Hi my dog suddenly ran away from my side and went to another room, and her spine curled up and her legs retracted and she just started shaking and when I tried to touch her, her legs wouldn't move but after five minutes. She got up as if nothing happened.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 19th, 2017

Poor Chloe! It sounds like she had a seizure or possibly a syncope (fainting) from a heart problem. She should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. Your vet can do an examination, run lab-work, and x-rays, if needed, to diagnose and then determine if any treatment is needed. If another episode happens, try to record so your vet can see exactly what happens during an episode.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 12th, 2020
Hello. Chloe needs to be evaluated by your veterinarian. Seizures can sometimes be caused by an underlying medical issue & most times this can be identified with blood work. If something is found, then the appropriate treatments or medications can correct whatever is causing her to be unwell. I hope you can have her seen soon & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 6th, 2017
It does sound like a seizure was a possibility. They often will lose control and shake and tremor and not be aware of their surroundings. Often towards the end they can go to the bathroom or throw up. There are different degrees of seizures based on severity. Your vet needs to check the blood work to make sure there was not a reason (low blood sugar or toxin) that could cause it. They will also check her heart and lungs and neuromuscular system to look for other reasons for the episode such as an electrolyte imbalance. If she is normal now you can watch her for the night and follow up with your regular vet tomorrow. If she has another episode tonight, then she should be seen at an ER
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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