Canine Paroxysmal Dyskinesia (CPD) in Dogs*
Educational Information for Biewer Terrier Owners
What is canine paroxysmal dyskinesia?
Canine Paroxysmal Dyskinesia (CPD) is a group of episodic movement disorders in dogs that causes sudden, involuntary, abnormal movements. These episodes may resemble seizures, but affected dogs often remain conscious, alert, and responsive during the event.
Dogs are typically normal between episodes, which is one reason CPD can be mistaken for epilepsy or another seizure disorder.
Current understanding
Current veterinary literature describes CPD as a group of episodic movement disorders rather than a single disease. Research continues into possible genetic causes and breed-associated patterns.
What it may look like
Clinical signs may include muscle stiffening, twisting or abnormal posturing, trembling, abnormal limb movement, or difficulty walking and coordinating movement. Episodes can last from seconds to hours, and some dogs may have repeated attacks close together.
Many dogs remain aware of their surroundings and may respond to their owners during an episode. This preserved mentation is one of the features that helps distinguish CPD from epileptic seizure activity.
How it is diagnosed
CPD can be difficult to diagnose because it overlaps with seizure disorders and other neurologic conditions. Veterinarians often rely on a detailed medical history, a video recording of the episode, a neurologic examination, and additional testing when needed to rule out other causes.
When clinically indicated, MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may be used to exclude structural or inflammatory disease.
Treatment and management
Treatment can be challenging, and response to medication varies. Some dogs do not respond well to standard anti-seizure medications. In certain breed-associated forms, more targeted management approaches may be considered, but treatment should always be directed by a veterinarian or veterinary neurologist.
Owners may be asked to monitor episode frequency, duration, possible triggers, and recovery patterns to help guide care. Stress, excitement, and exercise are commonly reported triggers in some dogs.
Breed-specific note
At this time, no published research specifically involving Biewer Terriers and paroxysmal dyskinesia has been identified. This handout reflects general canine information rather than breed-specific research findings.
*This educational handout compiles public veterinary literature and does not represent original research, official policy, or guidance from the Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA). This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Owners of dogs showing new or unusual symptoms should consult a licensed veterinarian immediately. The BTCA Health Committee encourages members to consult qualified veterinary professionals for all canine health decisions.
References
All information summarized in this handout is derived from the sources listed below:
- Mandigers PJJ, Santifort KM, Lowrie M, Garosi L. Canine paroxysmal dyskinesia—a review. Front Vet Sci. 2024;11:1441332.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1441332/full - Lowrie M, Garosi L. Classification of involuntary movements in dogs: paroxysmal dyskinesias. Vet J. 2017;220:65-71.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28190498/ - Cave Veterinary Specialists. Paroxysmal dyskinesias in dogs and cats.
https://www.cave-vet-specialists.co.uk/pet-owners/factsheets/paroxysmal-dyskinesias-in-dogs-and-cats - Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists. Owner information sheet: Paroxysmal dyskinesias.
https://www.andersonmoores.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Owner-Information-Sheet-Paroxysmal-dyskinesia.pdf - Veterinary Oracle. Paroxysmal dyskinesia factsheet.
https://vetoracle.com/resources/client-factsheets/paroxysmal-dyskinesia-factsheet/