Head Tremors in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs
Dear Dr. Kraemer, My English Bulldog, Zoey is experiencing unusual head tremors—shaking and bobbing. It’s quite distressing to witness. She has no history of seizures or epilepsy. I’ve read about various possible causes, but I’m unsure if this is an emergency. 🏥
Is there something I can do at home for now? I watched a video on vet4bulldog that looks like what Zoey has. You described that condition as “idiopathic bulldog head tremors.” Is that what it is? 👩⚕️
Sincerely Sara #FrenchieHealth #DogEmergency #HeadTremors 🐾
Bulldog Head Tremors Introduction:
Head tremors in bulldogs and French bulldogs are also known as:
- “Bulldog head bobbing”
- “Bulldog head shaking”
- “Bulldog head nodding”
- “Idiopathic bulldog head tremors“
Bulldog head tremors, head shaking, and head bobbing are interchangeable terms and usully idopathic
IS BULLDOG HEAD BOBBING PAINFUL?
As far as we know, idiopathic head tremor in bulldogs and French bulldogs is not a painful condition or a distress signal. These tremors are generally considered benign and don’t indicate a serious health issue. They appear to be more of a neurological glitch than a symptom of an underlying ailment, and they do not seem to cause discomfort to the dogs.
Bulldog Head Tremors 5 X MUST KNOW
- The most common origin of bulldog head tremors is unknown (idiopathic).
- The condition is unique to bulldog breeds and is usually painless and harmless.
- Medication is usually not required, and idiopathic tremors are not considered seizures
- Head shaking can be halted by diverting attention to food or toys
- For your bulldog’s neuro health, we offer Dr. Kraemer’s Bulldog Head Tremors Bundle
Members of this bulldog community prefer prevention over RX
What is The Cause of Head Tremors in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs?
The precise cause of head tremors in bulldogs remains elusive. Despite thorough research, we have not identified a definitive reason for these seemingly spontaneous head-bobbing motions. However, several factors may contribute.
- “Idiopathic”: idiopathic means “cause unknown.”
- “Focal seizures”
- “Intentions tremors”
- “Sleep disorder”
- Neurological imbalances: Some theories suggest potential imbalances in specific neurotransmitters might be involved.
- Genetics: A genetic link seems likely, considering the higher prevalence of head tremors in bulldogs compared to other breeds.
- Structural differences: the brain region responsible for coordination and balance might play a role.
- Environmental: toxins and stress
- Nutritional: various nutritional deficits, such as minerals and vitamins
The most common type of bulldog and French bulldog head tremors is IDIOPATHIC
1. BULLDOG IDIOPATHIC HEAD TREMORS :
The origin of this bulldog head nodding and bobbing is mostly unknown (idiopathic) and thus is considered “benign.” It’s the most common reason for this strange and, at times, scary condition.
Are Bulldog Head Tremors Harmful❓
Idiopathic head tremors are usually harmless. Although the exact cause remains elusive, it’s reassuring for pet owners to know that these episodes typically do not lead to further complications or require extensive treatment.
It can be mild, subtle, and brief in some cases, and more dramatic in others.
2. BULLDOG HEAD NODDING FOCAL SEIZURE:
In some bulldog head tremor cases, a focal seizure or a stretch mechanism localized to the head could be the underlying cause.
The area of the brain affected in bulldog focal seizure head tremors is the region that controls movement. When this part of the brain experiences abnormal electrical activity, it can result in involuntary head movements that resemble the more common idiopathic head shaking.
How Can I Tell a Head Tremor That is Due to Focal Seizure❓
Identifying the precise cause of these tremors is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and care for bulldogs experiencing these episodes. Proper diagnosis is essential to determining the appropriate treatment and management for affected bulldogs.
FOCAL SEIZURE vs. IDOPATHIC HEAD TREMORS / SIMILARITIES:
➡️ MOVEMENT: Both conditions can manifest as head shaking, bobbing, or nodding movements.
➡️ FREQUENCY & INTENSITY: Both can occur with varying frequencies and intensities.
➡️ SPONTANEIOUS: Both can seem spontaneous and unpredictable to casual observers.
FOCAL SEIZURE vs. IDOPATHIC HEAD TREMORS / DIFFERENCES
➡️ AWARNESS: Your bulldog might seem disoriented or unresponsive during a seizure, while awareness appears undisturbed during idiopathic episodes.
➡️ DROOL & TWITCH: Focal seizures might involve additional symptoms like twitching, drooling, or changes in posture or eye movement.
➡️ TRIGGERS: Certain factors like excitement, stress, or loud noises can be triggers for focal seizures, which is not the case in idiopathic episodes
The area of the brain affected in bulldog focal seizure head tremors is the same area that controls movement.
3. BULLDOG HEAD-SHAKING INTENTION TREMORS:
The presentation of “bulldog intention tremors” can be very similar to the more common bulldog idiopathic head shaking. Intentional tremors originate in the cerebellum, and you can often differentiate them from the idiopathic type by their jerkier shaking movement.
Idiopathic head shaking is generally considered harmless, while intentional tremors if left untreated, can worsen and potentially impact daily activities.
1. INTENTION TREMORS PREVENT AND TREAT:
While idiopathic head shaking may not require specific treatment, intentional tremors often benefit from medications or other management strategies. Consulting with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is crucial to managing and mitigating the effects of intentional tremors on a bulldog’s quality of life.
2. INTENTIONAL TREMORS vs. BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS / SIMILARITIES:
- Both can involve head-shaking, bobbing, or nodding movements.
- Both can occur sporadically or with varying frequency and intensity.
- Both can seem alarming to the pet owner at first glance.
3. INTENTIONAL TREMORS vs. BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS / DIFFERENCES:
➡️ ORIGEN: Intentional tremors stem from the cerebellum, a brain region responsible for coordination and balance, while idiopathic tremors have multifactorial origin.
➡️ MOVEMENT: Intentional tremors often appear jerkier and less rhythmic compared to the more “wave-like” head shaking of idiopathic cases. In addition, intentional tremors become more pronounced during intentional movements like
- eating
- drinking
- walking
➡️ TRIGGERS: While the idiopathic head shaking appears spontaneously, intentional voluntary actions typically trigger the intention tremors.
Bulldog intention tremors are typically jerkier and observed when your bulldog eats or drinks, or during other voluntary movements.
4. BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS DUE TO SLEEP DISORDER:
Sleep Disorder Head Tremors are usually present during the REM (rapid eye movement) sleep phase and are associated with active dreaming. This disorder causes individuals to physically act out their dreams, sometimes with violent head movements.
In severe cases, head tremors or shaking could be seen as part of the dream enactment.
How I Know If My Bulldog Head Shake Is Due To Sleep Disorder?
Understanding the context and timing of these tremors can help differentiate them from other types of head movements. If a bulldog exhibits head tremors predominantly during sleep, particularly during the REM phase, it might be indicative of a sleep disorder rather than a neurological issue or idiopathic condition
What are the symptoms of head tremors?
The presentation is often similar between those different head-bobbing disorders, so you should film them and make notes for your veterinarian or veterinary neurologist.
1. IDIOPATHIC HEAD SHAKING PRESENTATION
Bulldog and French bulldog idiopathic head tremor patients remain alert and responsive.
2. FOCAL SEIZURE PRESENTATION:
Bulldogs and French bulldogs suffering from focal seizures exhibit a change in mental status.
3. INTENTION TREMORS PRESENTATION:
Bulldog intention tremor presentation is similar to bulldog idiopathic head shaking, though the tremors are typically jerkier.
4. BULLDOG SLEEP DISORDER PRESENTATION:
Bulldog sleep-disorder head tremors present during the dreaming phase (REM sleep).
What is The Duration Of Head Tremors in Bulldogs?
Most of the head shaking, tremors, nodding, and bobbing in bulldogs and French bulldogs are short-lived, but occasionally they could last for a few minutes.
Head Tremors in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs / DIAGNOSIS:
Common diagnostic tests conducted for bulldog head-shaking include:
- MEDICAL EXAM
- BILE ACID TEST: to help rule out portosystemic shunts (liver shunts).
- BLOOD TEST: a general blood test to check for diabetes and other medical conditions that can lead to seizures, including electrolytes and thyroid levels.
- IMAGING: CT and MRI
- OTHER: spinal fluid analysis, EEG
Head Tremors in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs / PREVENT & TREAT:
Head tremors are typically intermittent and considered harmless; therefore, they require no specific treatment in most cases.
Seizure medications are controversial and not necessary for idiopathic tremors.
It’s important to keep in mind that prescription medications always carry the potential for adverse side effects.
🚨You can also initiate nonprescription bully therapeutics for relaxation, immune boosting, and inflammation
Facts and Myths of Bulldog Head Tremors:
I often presented with bulldog head tremor myths in my practice and email communications with customers.
The most inaccurate information tends to circulate on various online bulldog platforms. It’s crucial to always adhere to the “DO NO HARM” rule.
There are instances when it’s better to take no action than to risk doing something potentially harmful. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and guidance to help ensure that any actions taken are safe and beneficial for the bulldog’s health and well-being.
Below are some of the common head tremor myths:
1. BULLDOG HEAD SHAKING SUGAR MYTH & FACT
MYTH 🔍: Many owners swear by the erroneous syrup, honey, or ice cream head-shaking treatment; this is a myth.
FACT 🩺: The head tremors are neither caused by low blood sugar nor directly influenced by sugar intake.
⚠️ BULLDOG HEAD SHAKING SUGAR WARNING
Offering sugar won’t address the underlying cause and can even be detrimental in some cases, especially for diabetic dogs. Bulldog owners need to seek proper veterinary advice rather than relying on unverified remedies that could potentially harm their pets.
Excessive sugar intake can lead to various health problems, like
- obesity
- diabetes
- dental disease
Treating your bulldog with ice cream or sugary liquids is unhealthy.
When bulldog owners testify that the sugar trick works, they fail to understand that it is not the sugar but the neck movement and distraction that helped stop the tremors.
A toy or treat will achieve the same results.
⚠️ FR. BULLDOG HEAD TREMOR SUGAR HYPOGLYCEMIA WARNING
Some breeders and online postings base their “sugar for bulldog head shaking” recommendation on the fact that sugar is given to depressed and shaking (seizure) hypoglycemic puppies or diabetic adults who were overdosed with insulin. However, bulldog head shaking has nothing to do with hypoglycemia.
To stop idiopathic bulldog head tremors, distract your bulldog with food, a treat, or a toy. This approach is both safer and healthier for your pet.
2. BULLDOG HEAD NODDING CALCIUM SUPPLEMENT MYTH & FACT
MYTH 🔍: Offering calcium supplements to a bulldog or French bulldog with a head shake has little merit.
FACT 🩺: Like the sugar myth, even when testified by owners that “it works,” the magic is not a direct cause and effect but rather incidental; the distraction and neck movement are the real cause and effect
FACT 🩺: calcium is often given to female bulldogs suffering from “postpartum calcium deficiency” shaking and tremors (i.e., eclampsia).
FACT 🩺: Offering calcium supplements to a bulldog or French bulldog experiencing headshakes has little scientific backing and operates under a similar misconception as the sugar myth. While some owners may testify that “it works,” the perceived effectiveness is likely not due to a direct cause-and-effect relationship with the calcium. Instead, administering the calcium—along with the associated distraction and neck movement—is what most likely alleviates the tremors.
⚠️BULLDOG HEAD SHAKE ECLAMPSIA WARNING
It’s important to note that calcium supplements are often prescribed for female bulldogs suffering from “postpartum calcium deficiency” shaking and tremors (eclampsia), which is a specific medical condition related to low calcium levels after giving birth.
Head Tremors in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs / TIPS & WARNINGS:
Below are selected tips and warnings, courtesy of Dr. Kraemer
#1 🩺NON-HARMFUL BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS TIP:
Bulldog head shaking can be scary to watch but is typically neither an emergency nor a life-threatening event. It is considered idiopathic, which means it arises from an unknown cause and is generally harmless. Nevertheless, contact your local emergency vet or your regular veterinarian to get their advice.
#2 🩺DISTRTING BULLDOG HEAD SHAKING TIP:
Typically, I advise distressed bulldog owners to try and have their bully move his or her head and neck. A good example is distraction with a toy or a treat.
Distractions will usually stop your bulldog or French bulldog head tremors.
- food
- toys
- “let’s go play or for a walk”
- showing the leash
#1 ⚠️BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS, OTHER DISEASE WARNING:
We do not know of any medical or neurological conditions that are a direct result of bulldog idiopathic head bobbing. Nevertheless, we advise that you take a video, make notes, and seek consultation from your local veterinary neurologist
#2 ⚠️BULLDOG HEAD TREMORS GENETIC LINK WARNING:
The observation that head shaking is predominantly seen in bulldogs does indeed raise the suspicion of a genetic link. Consequently, we do not recommend breeding bulldogs with a history of head tremors to avoid potentially passing on this condition to future generations.
#3 ⚠️HEAD TREMORS DISTEMPER VIRUS WARNING:
Head shaking due to advanced cases of distemper virus usually also involves the jaw and leg muscles and can be observed even while your bulldog is sleeping.
Distemper encephalomyelitis is rare because of the introduction of the vaccine and its integration into our canine pet’s wellness core vaccine series. However, it’s important to remember that not all dogs are vaccinated, and some may still be at risk, especially if they come into contact with infected animals. If you suspect a distemper or any other serious illness in your bulldog, prompt veterinary attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
#4 ⚠️HEAD TREMORS POISONS & TOXINS WARNING:
Other types of tremors can be due to poisons and toxins, hormonal abnormalities, and electrolyte imbalances.
#5 ⚠️HEAD SHAKING NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS WARNING
Other neurological disorders and conditions that can lead to head tremors are:
- Brain tumors
- Infections
- Ear infections: Inner ear infections can sometimes cause head shaking and tilting, while leg shaking might be less common.
- Pain: Pain from other conditions like arthritis or dental problems can also lead to shaking or trembling.
LEG SHAKING IN AGING BULLDOGS:
On occasion, senior bulldogs and French bulldog owners notice that their aging dog’s hind legs may begin to shake, either standing up or lying down, and may progressively worsen over time. While it might be tempting to draw parallels between this and the head shaking seen in younger bulldogs, these two conditions are generally considered unrelated.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF SENIOR BULLDOG LEG SHAKING?
The shaking of the hind legs in older bulldogs can be attributed to several factors that are more commonly associated with aging in dogs:
- Muscle weakness: As dogs age, their muscles may weaken, decreasing their ability to sustain prolonged standing or maintain certain postures.
- Joint problems: Conditions that are prevalent in bulldogs can cause discomfort or pain, leading to shaking as the dog attempts to alleviate discomfort during standing or movement.
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Osteoarthritis
- Neurological issues: Degenerative changes in the nervous system can also lead to muscle tremors in elderly dogs.
- IVDD
- Spondylosis
- Neuropathy
- myelopathies
Like idiopathic head shaking, the exact cause of leg shaking in senior bulldogs can sometimes remain unknown, and it may similarly be considered idiopathic if no specific medical issue can be identified. However, it is essential to have a veterinarian assess any new or worsening symptoms in senior dogs to rule out treatable conditions such as arthritis, nerve impingement, or other disorders that could benefit from medical management.
HOW TO TREAT SENIOR BULLDOG LEG SHAKING?
There is no known treatment for aging bulldog idiopathic leg shaking, but usually, I will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication, or recommend bully therapeutic supplements like the
Recommended by Owners Approved by Bulldogs
