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Why is my dog breathing heavily and rapidly after a seizure?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 13 years and 9 months old

My 13 year old shih tzu started having seizures about three months ago! Last night after he had a seizure he has been breathing heavy and rapidly why?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 1st, 2016

The more seizures a pet has the most sensitive his nervous system is to them. If Bailey is not having rapid breathing then this could be because his other organs are now becoming affected by the seizures. It is best to take him to your vet for a baseline bloodwork screen to ensure he is not anemic, or have any other internal changes caused by the seizures. If he does then he may need treatment. And if his seizures are currently not being controlled and well managed (less than 1 seizure a month, and occurring for less than 2-3 minutes), then it is best to get him on anti-seizure medication for his safety and well-being.

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