My 7 mon. old Papillon oftentimes starts to shiver and whine and become lethargic..?

Question

I often wake up in the morning to find my 7 mon. old Papillon (small breed related to small Spaniels and Chiwawas) shaking violently. She is, as per her breed, a very peppy and outgoing dog - but during these times she is lethargic and limp. At first I thought it might be something with her blood sugar, but no amount of suppliments seems to help and she's supposed to have grown out of hypoglycemia by this age.

I took her to the vet a few months ago, and he insisted it was probably hypoglycemia or a reaction to a small virus. It has happened at least once every fortnight since, though.

On the bright side, the symptoms usually go away within an hour or so, and she has never yet lost conciousness or stopped breathing.

Still, I am worried. Any suggestions? Has anyone else had this happen before? Could it possibly still be hypoglycemia, even though she is going into 8 mons. of age?

Thanks in Advance.
Victoria

I never get to thank the people for answering; this is the only way I can think of. >.>

Well, thanks for replying all of you! <3 I'll definately look into the possibility of another sort of ailment. I am relieved to hear that some Paps never outgrow hypoglycemia; I was so worried! Maybe she is one of those dogs. <3 Thanks again!

Answer 1

I would certainly think it to be hypoglycemia. Some Papillons never out grow this...I take care of 2 with this condition at the doggy day care/boarding kennel where I work.

We give them a protein tablet between meals.

Answer 2

You would think that the vet would know what he's talking about, but you may want to get a second (or 3rd opinion). I never take just one person's opinion on health problems. Maybe you can arrange to have your baby's blood checked in the morning or when she is having an attack so they can find out what the problem is. They can probably keep her at the vet for a day to check her blood several times to see what her sugar levels are throughout the day. Are you sure she's not having seizures of a different kind? There are many possibilities besides hypoglycemia. Maybe the breeder can help you...you probably paid enough $$$, so they should be willing. If the parents also had this problem, they shouldn't be breeding them. They should also know about hypoglycemia and whether she will outgrow it. Another note: it would be helpful to keep a diary of when she has the episodes, how long they last, what the symptoms are, and when you feed her. That will help the vet diagnose the problem.

Answer 3

Definitely take her to another vet, it does sound like hypoglycemia, if she is very small it could be that still. My pom had problems with it when he was a pup and we were giving him a supplement several times through out the day before he had the worst of his attacks. Little dogs can be so fragile especially the ones that have so much energy and not enough body fat to keep up with their metabolisms. Sometimes you have to make them rest because they will run themselves sick. Good luck to you and your dog, mine did grow out of it and he is healthy and happy now so I hope the same goes for you. God bless!

Answer 4

It sounds as if your puppy is having 'petit mal' seizures from epilepsy. You need to see another vet.

After a seizure, a dog will typically be lethargic and sleepy. Let us know what the next vet says.

Good luck and epilepsy is usually treatable with inexpensive medication.

Answer 5

It sounds as if your dog is having seizures. Take her back to the vet immediately. If he/she still continues to blow you off, then see a different vet. She may need medication.

Answer 6

I have no clue on what's wrong with your pup but you should definitely bring her to a different vet for a second opinion.

Answer 7

Maybe she's been pussy whipped by a cat.