Breed Risk for Epilepsy: Which Dogs Are More Likely to Seize?

When it comes to idiopathic epilepsy, genetics play a starring role. While any dog, purebred or mixed breed, can develop seizures, the condition is significantly more common in certain breeds. For owners of these dogs, understanding this inherited risk is a crucial part of proactive pet care.

If your dog is one of the breeds prone to epilepsy, it doesn't mean they will definitely develop it, but it does mean you should be especially vigilant and informed. Knowledge empowers you to recognize early signs, seek prompt veterinary care, and provide the best possible management if seizures occur.

What is Inherited Epilepsy?

Inherited (or genetic) epilepsy is the most common form of the disease in dogs. It's known as Idiopathic Epilepsy, meaning there is no other underlying cause like a brain tumor or liver disease—the brain is structurally normal but has a lower seizure threshold. This genetic predisposition is passed down through family lines, which is why it clusters in specific breeds.

Key characteristics:

• No identifiable structural brain abnormality
• No underlying metabolic or toxic cause
• Genetic component passed through family lines
• Typically begins between 6 months and 6 years of age
• More common in purebred dogs than mixed breeds

For a complete overview of understanding canine epilepsy, including types and causes, see our comprehensive guide.

Understanding Genetic Predisposition

Epilepsy in dogs is considered genetic when its frequency in a specific breed exceeds that of the general canine population. Research has identified specific genetic mutations in some breeds, while in others, the genetic component is clear from breeding studies even if the exact genes haven't been identified.

How genetics work:

• Epilepsy can be inherited in different patterns (dominant, recessive, polygenic)
• Some breeds have identified genetic mutations (e.g., ADAM23 in Belgian Shepherds)
• Mixed-breed dogs can inherit risk if they have ancestry from high-risk breeds
• Responsible breeding can reduce but not eliminate risk

Important: Having a high-risk breed doesn't guarantee your dog will develop epilepsy—it simply means the risk is higher than average. Many dogs from these breeds never experience a seizure.

Breeds with a Known Higher Risk

Research and veterinary clinical data have consistently identified several breeds as having a higher prevalence of epilepsy. The following list includes some of the most well-documented:

The Herding Group

Belgian Tervuren & Belgian Sheepdog: Perhaps the most studied breed for genetic epilepsy, with a very high incidence. Research has identified specific genetic mutations (ADAM23) in these breeds. Epilepsy can be severe and difficult to control in some lines.

Border Collie: Their intense work drive seems to be matched by a genetic predisposition to seizures. Border Collies are commonly affected, with some lines showing higher risk than others. The condition can be particularly challenging in working lines.

Australian Shepherd: A common breed where epilepsy is a known health concern. Both standard and miniature Australian Shepherds can be affected, with onset typically between 1-5 years of age.

German Shepherd Dog: One of the most popular breeds, and unfortunately, also one with a significant risk. German Shepherds are frequently seen in veterinary neurology clinics for seizure management.

Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie): Also appears on lists of breeds prone to seizures. The condition can vary in severity, with some dogs experiencing well-controlled seizures and others facing more challenges.

Collie (Rough and Smooth): While less common than in some other herding breeds, Collies do have an increased risk of epilepsy compared to the general population.

The Sporting & Retriever Group

Labrador Retriever: As one of the world's most popular breeds, their cases are frequently seen by vets. Labradors have a well-documented genetic predisposition, with some lines showing higher risk than others.

Golden Retriever: Another very common family pet with a known genetic link. Golden Retrievers are frequently affected, and the condition can be challenging to manage in some individuals.

English Springer Spaniel: They can be affected by a severe form sometimes called "Springer Rage Syndrome," which includes seizures. This breed has a particularly challenging form of epilepsy that can be difficult to control.

Vizsla: This breed has a well-documented hereditary form of epilepsy. The condition can be severe in some lines, and responsible breeders work to reduce prevalence through careful breeding decisions.

Cocker Spaniel: Both American and English Cocker Spaniels have an increased risk of epilepsy. The condition can vary in severity and response to treatment.

Other High-Risk Breeds

Beagle: A common breed for research into canine epilepsy due to its prevalence. Beagles are frequently used in epilepsy research, which has helped advance understanding of the condition.

Dachshund: Both standard and miniature sizes can be affected. The condition can be challenging to manage in some individuals, particularly in certain lines.

Irish Wolfhound: Known to have a serious form of the condition. The large size of these dogs can make medication dosing and management more complex.

Bernese Mountain Dog: Among the giant breeds, they are notably prone. The condition can be severe and may be associated with other health concerns in this breed.

Poodle (Miniature and Standard): Epilepsy is a recognized concern in the breed. Both sizes can be affected, and the condition can vary in severity and response to treatment.

Boxer: Boxers have a higher incidence of epilepsy, and the condition can be challenging to manage in some individuals. Some Boxers may also be prone to brain tumors, which can cause seizures.

Schnauzer (Miniature and Standard): Both sizes have an increased risk. Miniature Schnauzers, in particular, are frequently seen in veterinary neurology clinics.

Basset Hound: This breed has a documented increased risk of epilepsy. The condition can vary in severity and response to treatment.

Keeshond: A breed with a known genetic predisposition to epilepsy. Research has helped identify some genetic factors in this breed.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list. Mixed-breed dogs can also inherit this genetic predisposition if they have ancestry from a high-risk breed. Additionally, new research continues to identify additional breeds with increased risk.

A Quick-Reference Table of Breeds Prone to Epilepsy

| Breed | Risk Level | Typical Onset Age | Notes | |-------|------------|-------------------|-------| | Belgian Tervuren | Very High | 1-3 years | Most studied breed, specific genetic mutations identified | | Belgian Sheepdog | Very High | 1-3 years | Similar to Tervuren, high research interest | | Border Collie | High | 1-5 years | Common in working lines | | Labrador Retriever | High | 1-5 years | Very common breed, frequently seen in clinics | | German Shepherd | High | 1-5 years | Popular breed with significant risk | | Beagle | High | 6 months - 3 years | Frequently used in research | | Golden Retriever | Moderate to High | 1-5 years | Common family pet with known risk | | Australian Shepherd | Moderate to High | 1-5 years | Both standard and miniature affected | | English Springer Spaniel | Moderate to High | 1-5 years | Can have severe form | | Vizsla | Moderate to High | 1-5 years | Well-documented hereditary form | | Shetland Sheepdog | Moderate | 1-5 years | Less common than some herding breeds | | Dachshund | Moderate | 1-5 years | Both standard and miniature | | Irish Wolfhound | Moderate | 1-5 years | Can be severe form | | Bernese Mountain Dog | Moderate | 1-5 years | Giant breed, management challenges | | Poodle | Moderate | 1-5 years | Both miniature and standard |

Important: Risk levels are relative to the general canine population. Even "moderate" risk breeds have significantly higher incidence than mixed-breed dogs or low-risk breeds.

What Should You Do If You Own a High-Risk Breed?

If your dog is from a breed with increased epilepsy risk, there are several proactive steps you can take:

Be Informed, Not Paranoid

Knowledge is power. Knowing the risk means you can be prepared and recognize the signs early. However, remember that most dogs from these breeds never develop epilepsy. Awareness doesn't mean constant worry—it means being prepared.

What to do:

• Learn about seizure signs and symptoms
• Know when to seek veterinary care
• Understand that early intervention improves outcomes
• Remember that many dogs with epilepsy live normal, happy lives

Know the Signs

Seizures aren't always full-body convulsions. Look for:

Focal seizures (often missed):

• Sudden, unexplained fear or anxiety
• Fly-biting at the air
• Twitching in one part of the body (face, one leg)
• Temporary confusion or disorientation
• Staring episodes
• Unusual behaviors (tail chasing, sudden barking)

Generalized seizures (more obvious):

• Full-body convulsions
• Loss of consciousness
• Paddling legs
• Jaw chomping
• Drooling or foaming
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Learn more about the stages of seizures in dogs and what to watch for.

Ask Your Breeder

Responsible breeders will be transparent about the health history of their bloodlines. Questions to ask:

• Has epilepsy been seen in the parents, grandparents, or previous litters?
• Are there any health guarantees related to epilepsy?
• What health testing do you perform?
• Can you provide health records for the parents?

Why this matters: While epilepsy can't always be prevented, responsible breeders work to reduce risk through careful breeding decisions and health testing.

Start a Seizure Diary Immediately

If your dog does have a seizure, your detailed log will be invaluable. PupPal makes tracking effortless—log seizures in under a minute, and the app automatically identifies patterns, correlates with potential triggers, and generates professional reports for your veterinarian.

What to track:

• Date and time of each seizure
• Duration (seizure and post-ictal phase)
• Type and description
• Pre-ictal behaviors
• Post-ictal recovery
• Potential triggers

See our comprehensive guide on how to track seizure patterns over time for detailed examples and templates.

Don't wait for a second seizure to start tracking. Start using PupPal today and be prepared if seizures ever occur. Early tracking provides the best data for your veterinarian.

Work Closely with Your Veterinarian

If your dog is from a high-risk breed and develops seizures:

• Seek veterinary evaluation promptly
• Provide detailed seizure logs
• Follow diagnostic recommendations
• Maintain consistent medication schedules
• Report changes in seizure patterns immediately

Learn more about working with your veterinarian and understanding the diagnostic process.

The Silver Lining: Research and Responsibility

The high incidence of epilepsy in certain breeds has a sad but important upside: it makes these breeds key participants in research. Scientists are actively studying the genes of Border Collies, Belgian Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers to identify the specific genetic mutations responsible.

Current research goals:

• Identify specific genetic mutations causing epilepsy
• Develop genetic tests for breeders
• Improve breeding decisions to reduce prevalence
• Develop breed-specific treatment protocols
• Understand why some dogs respond better to treatment

The goal is to eventually develop genetic tests that can help breeders make better mating choices to reduce the prevalence of this disease. Some progress has already been made—for example, the ADAM23 mutation has been identified in Belgian Shepherds, allowing breeders to test and make informed decisions.

For owners: Participating in research studies (if available) can help advance understanding while potentially providing access to cutting-edge treatments or diagnostics.

Mixed-Breed Dogs and Epilepsy Risk

While purebred dogs from high-risk breeds have the highest incidence, mixed-breed dogs can also develop epilepsy, especially if they have ancestry from high-risk breeds.

What to know:

• Mixed-breed dogs generally have lower risk than purebred high-risk breeds
• If your mixed-breed dog has features suggesting high-risk breed ancestry, be aware of the potential risk
• Genetic testing can sometimes identify breed ancestry
• The same signs, symptoms, and management approaches apply

The good news: Mixed-breed dogs often benefit from "hybrid vigor," which can reduce the risk of inherited conditions, including epilepsy.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Some breeds have unique characteristics that affect epilepsy management:

Large and Giant Breeds

Challenges:

• Medication dosing can be more complex
• Higher medication costs
• May require larger doses or different formulations
• Some medications may have breed-specific considerations

Examples: Irish Wolfhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Danes

Small Breeds

Challenges:

• May require compounded medications for accurate dosing
• Smaller body size means medication effects can be more pronounced
• May be more sensitive to medication side effects

Examples: Miniature Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Toy Poodles

Working Breeds

Challenges:

• High activity levels may affect medication metabolism
• Stress from work can be a trigger
• May need special consideration for medication timing around work

Examples: Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds

Prevention and Early Recognition

While you can't prevent genetic epilepsy, you can:

Be prepared:

• Know the signs of seizures
• Have an emergency plan ready
• Keep rescue medications on hand if prescribed
• Maintain a relationship with a veterinarian familiar with epilepsy

Early recognition:

• Learn to recognize subtle seizure signs
• Don't dismiss unusual behaviors
• Seek veterinary evaluation promptly
• Start tracking immediately if seizures occur

Track proactively: Even if your dog hasn't had seizures, starting to track with PupPal helps you establish baseline behaviors and makes it easier to recognize changes if seizures ever occur.

The Bottom Line

If your dog is one of the many breeds prone to epilepsy, you are your pet's best advocate. By being aware of the risk, knowing the symptoms, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure that if seizures ever occur, your dog gets the swift and effective care they need to live a long, happy life.

Key takeaways:

• Breed risk doesn't mean your dog will definitely develop epilepsy
• Early recognition and treatment improve outcomes
• Many dogs with epilepsy live normal, happy lives with proper management
• Tracking seizures is essential for effective management
• Responsible breeding can help reduce prevalence over time

Remember: Having a high-risk breed doesn't mean living in fear—it means being prepared. With proper awareness, preparation, and veterinary care, you can provide the best possible management if seizures occur.

Be prepared from day one. Start tracking with PupPal and have a comprehensive system ready if your dog ever needs it. Early tracking provides the best foundation for effective epilepsy management.

Frequently Asked Questions

If my dog is a high-risk breed, will they definitely get epilepsy?

No. Having a high-risk breed increases the likelihood but doesn't guarantee your dog will develop epilepsy. Many dogs from these breeds never experience a seizure. However, being aware of the risk helps you recognize signs early if seizures do occur.

Can I prevent epilepsy in a high-risk breed?

You cannot prevent genetic epilepsy, but you can be prepared. Know the signs, have an emergency plan, and work with a veterinarian familiar with epilepsy. If you're getting a puppy, choose a responsible breeder who tests for and avoids breeding dogs with epilepsy in their lines.

What should I do if my high-risk breed dog has a seizure?

Seek veterinary evaluation promptly, especially if it's the first seizure. Start tracking seizures immediately using a detailed log or app like PupPal. Provide your veterinarian with comprehensive information about the seizure, and follow their diagnostic and treatment recommendations.

Are mixed-breed dogs safe from epilepsy?

No. While mixed-breed dogs generally have lower risk than purebred high-risk breeds, they can still develop epilepsy, especially if they have ancestry from high-risk breeds. The same signs, symptoms, and management approaches apply.

Can genetic testing predict epilepsy?

Some breeds have identified genetic mutations (like ADAM23 in Belgian Shepherds), and genetic testing is available for these. However, for most breeds, genetic testing isn't yet available. Research continues to identify more genetic markers.

Should I avoid getting a high-risk breed?

Not necessarily. Many dogs from high-risk breeds never develop epilepsy, and those that do often respond well to treatment. If you're considering a high-risk breed, choose a responsible breeder, be aware of the risk, and be prepared to provide excellent care if needed.

Ready to be prepared? Start tracking with PupPal today and have a comprehensive seizure management system ready if your dog ever needs it. Whether your dog is from a high-risk breed or not, early tracking provides the best foundation for effective epilepsy management. Join thousands of dog parents who are prepared and empowered.

Related Reading:

• Understanding Canine Epilepsy – Complete guide to causes, types, and diagnosis
• How to Track Seizure Patterns Over Time – Comprehensive guide to seizure tracking
• What Triggers Seizures in Dogs – Complete guide to identifying and preventing triggers
• Living With an Epileptic Dog – Daily care, routines, and quality of life strategies
• Medication Management for Dogs with Epilepsy – How to manage anti-seizure medications effectively