Dog having a fit....?

[gemma-law]

Hello all,
I have a crossed Jack Russel Yorkshire Terrier. He is 18months old. He is slightly nervous, very exciteable to the point where he trembles. A very affectionate, harmless dog.
However, he keeps having what can only be described as 'funny do's'. He seems to lose his balance and walk as though a drunk person would walk. Whilst doing this he attempts to bring his front paws up as though trying to sooth something on himself. This usually lasts about 5mins and afterwards he dithers for a while. He doesnt yelp or cry during this and is always perfectly fine afterwards. It has only happened twice. I have titled this question as a fit but it doesnt look like a fit... there is no violent shaking or anything.
We do plan to take him to a vet but in the meantime just want some thoughts on what this could be as it is very distressing for us.
Any help appreciated.
Thanks, Gemma.

[lankeela]

I would keep a record of when and how long this happens for, so you can tell your vet. It could be a mild form of seizure, or it could be a heart problem, where the heart is not pumping fast enough to push the blood round the body. Sometimes this happens and they can fall down almost unconscious and then suddenly get up as right as rain. I am sure the vet will be able to help him.

[tamborine]

Maybe epileptic fit....I had pup with same (returned to breeder). Vet said it was due to in-breeding.

[lankeela]

B*llox. There are many causes of epilepsy and inbreeding could only be a cause if both the parents suffered, and two totally unrelated dogs could produce it.