Canine epilepsy, which results in chronic intermittent seizure activity, is the most common neurologic condition in dogs. While most dogs with seizures fall down, shake and foam at the mouth, about one-third of them have much more subtle signs that are tougher to identify.
Electroencephalography, or EEG, uses small sensors placed on the head to examine brainwaves and is the diagnostic test of choice in people with seizures. While the variety of head shapes across canine breeds has limited its use in dogs, study of 3-D dog skull models has helped determine the optimal placement of EEG sensors. This information — along with use of wireless EEG equipment housed in a doggie backpack — allows veterinary neurologists to gather diagnostic information from active dogs at home — even between seizures.