Bulldog & Frenchie parents can’t be blamed for freaking out when their pup suddenly shakes, twitches, or collapses. From dramatic full-body convulsions to random head bobbles or quirky “air-licking” episodes—it all looks alarming. But here’s the good news [👇]:
Not everything that looks like a seizure actually is one. Let’s sort out the real from the impostors.
#1 Bulldog and French Bulldog Epilepsy (unknown origin)
- Young: Common in younger bulldogs
- Hereditary: Likely has a genetic link.
- Age: Unlikely in bulldogs over 5 years old
- Manifestation: Classic “grand mal” clonic-tonic seizure signs:
- stiff body
- leg paddling
- teeth chattering
- loss of consciousness
- peeing over themselves.
⚠️I DO NOT RECOMMEND BREEDING EPILEPTIC BULLDOGS
#2 Non-Epileptic Seizures
- Age: Can happen at any age
- Cause: Those are caused by underlying pathology or health problems such us:
- infections
- toxins
- liver disease
- tumors
- viral
- metabolic and hormonal conditions
- Manifestation: similar to epilepsy
- Therapy: treatment depends on the root cause
#3 Bulldog Focal (Partial) Seizures
- Only affect one part of the brain
- More subtle, localized signs:
- “Fly-biting” (snapping at invisible flies)
- Twitching on one side of the face or body
Bulldog Head Tremors! the Impostor
The famous “bulldog bobblehead” look
- Totally harmless in most cases
- Not likely a true seizure (though it can fool even experienced owners!)
- Usually stops with neck & head motion
3 Types of Bulldog Seizures and One That’s NOT Treatment
Treatment depends on the seizure type
Bulldog Epilepsy Treatment:
- Mild Seizures: mild, short, infrequent seizures, might not require treatment.
- Serious Seizures: More serious frequent ones are usually managed well with medication
Bulldog Non-Epileptic Seizures Treatment:
Treatment usually customized to the root cause (underlining disease, toxin or pathology)
Bulldog Focal Seizures Treatment:
Treatment is a case-by-case
Bulldog Head Tremors Treatment:
usually no treatment needed, distracting them with a treat, toys, action like going on a walk usually stops it.
When in doubt, grab your phone, record the episode, and show your vet.
Severe seizures require emergency visit🚑
Read my full article on the topic 👉 HERE
Moral of the story: Not all shakes and shivers mean seizures.
Trusted by Vets ~ Recommended by Owners ~ Loved by Bulldogs
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