Dog Holds Eyes Wide Open with Slight Eyebrow Twitch

Hi Carla,
Without a video to see what your dog is doing–it would be difficult for me to diagnose the problem. What you are describing might be a behavior in response to fear, some dogs do not like to be stared at, since this can be interpreted as an act of dominance.

But also, it needs to be in context with what was happening in the household at the time both of these incidents occurred. It might be a form of ‘seizure’. Only not a generalized seizure, (such as a Grand Mal), but a localized or focal seizure. This kind involves only one part of the brain, the part that controls the eyes. I would suggest taking a video of her doing this behavior (If it happens again). Please upload the video to YouTube and post the link to the video below by clicking the “click here to add your own comments” button.

Make sure you note:
1. The time of day
2. What she was doing before the incident occurred
3. Try to determine if she is responsive to you if you talk to her. Ask her to come to you or sit down. Will she obey?

A visit to a holistic veterinarian may be in order–to discuss diet and nutrition and to determine if these incidents occurred after a vaccination.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
– Dog Eye Problems,
– Ask a Vet Online Library – Dog Eye Problems Section

Just as she lay down tonight…7 years old. Never seen this before. She responds but is tail tucked and repeatedly presenting her paw as she does when she wants our attention/response.

October 28, 2013

Dear kevalfox

Thanks for your question. I’m happy to help, but we only accept new questions from subscribers (the original question above was from a subscriber).

Although, I am not sure how much I can help unless I actually saw a video of what your dog was doing. Since it was only a one time episode, and may never happen again, it is hard to say what caused it or if you even need to do anything about it. If it does happen again, and you are able to record it and submit it as a question, then perhaps we can check it out!

I’ll then get back to you right away at the bottom of your newly created web page.
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman