When Thunder, my miniature long-haired dachshund, started having what I thought were seizures, it was really scary. With no way to know what was really wrong, or how I could help him, the hardest part was having to watch him go through something I had no control over. They started without warning, and at first I thought it could be the dreaded Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), commonly found in miniature dachshunds with their long backs. But, once they started happening, they became more frequent quite quickly, until our original vet prescribed some anti-seizure medication which halted them for a while.

After more visits to the vets, blood checks, and videos, we were eventually led towards the neurologist who had answers which finally put my mind at ease and meant that I could treat Thunder and manage his condition. When Thunder is having a seizure, or an “episode” as I now call them, as epilepsy has been ruled out, they can manifest in a few different ways, but most commonly he experiences:

• Muscle spasms
• His back tensing and arching upwards
• Inability to walk
• Becoming unsteady on his feet
• Loss of control of his bladder
• Head bobbling
• Uncontrollable salivating.

Canine Paroxysmal Dyskinesia (or CPD) is a neurological condition which looks far more scary than it is but can be managed, and can lessen over time with age. The good news is, while it looks really scary to humans – it doesn’t hurt the dogs at all. They are completely conscious during their episodes and this is probably the biggest difference between CPD and seizures. Video evidence is absolutely vital for diagnosing CPD as once you know the signs, it’s quite easy to recognise. Now I know all of the information I need, it’s much easier to manage Thunder’s condition, and knowing that he isn’t in any pain – if only just a little scared, means that I can give him all of the cuddles and reassurance during an episode, and a big hug once it passes.

Since Thunder has had his diagnosis, I have reached out to sausage dog groups on Facebook to let them know that this is surprisingly common in breeds such as miniature dachshunds, due to their small brains and long backs. Unfortunately, there is little to no cure or medication for this. While anti-seizure medications can lessen the episodes, they can cause long-term liver damage. Originally, Thunder was put on a medication called Phenobarbital, but our new vet advised taking him off this due to the damage it could cause, and since they were not seizures, the medication was not treating the actual issue.

Dogs can have varying amounts of episodes – there is a great Facebook support group which has been really helpful: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369991883795526

I find that a lot of dogs in this group have episodes of around 1 a month, some every few months. Unfortunately, Thunder’s are more recurring – on average once a week. I know that one of his triggers includes stress – overall, Thunder can be an anxious dog, and sometimes he will work himself up when the doorbell rings which will instantly trigger an episode. I’ve also noticed that in hotter months and when the weather changes, these become even more frequent. Some other triggers that are common to look out for might include:

• Changes in environment
• Exercise
• Gluten intolerances (your vet may suggest a gluten-free diet)

With this, I’ve been using Pet Munchies for many many years, and they are my other dog, Theo’s, favourite treats (and the only thing he would eat from puppy age!) Another friend, @buddythedappledachshund, recommended them to me when I first introduced Theo to the family, and I’ve not looked back.

While we were going through possible triggers with Thunder, we introduced him to a gluten-free diet, and I knew that Pet Munchies only includes natural ingredients in their products. I don’t like to purchase dog treats with lots of additives anyway, so it was one way that I could still give Thunder treats and he could enjoy some tasty food without having to worry about being triggered.

I find that a lot of dogs in this group have episodes of around 1 a month, some every few months. Unfortunately, Thunders are more reoccuring – on average once a week. I know that one of his triggers include stress – overall Thunder can be an anxious dog, and sometimes he will work himself up when the doorbell goes which will instantly trigger an episode. I’ve also noticed that in hotter months and when the weather changes, these become even more frequent. Some other triggers that are common to look out for might include:

• Changes in environment
• Exercise
• Gluten intolerances (your vet may suggest a gluten-free diet)

With this, I’ve been using Pet Munchies for many many years, and they are my other dog, Theo’s favourite treats (and the only thing he would eat from puppy age!) Another friend, @‌buddythedappledachshund recommended them to me when I first introduced Theo to the family, and I’ve not looked back.

Whilst we were going through possible triggers with Thunder, we introduced him to a gluten-free diet, and I knew that Pet Munchies only include natural ingredients in their products. I don’t like to purchase dog treats with lots of additives anyway, so it was one way that I could still give Thunder treats and he could enjoy some tasty food without having to worry about being triggered.