something wrong with my chihuahua

Question
I have a small chihuahua about 1 1/2...We have had him 8 months...within
the 8 months he has had about 5 weird spells...Out of no where he gets
very disoriented... he cant balance at all and tips over and swirves his
head side to side like someone who is drunk...this lasts a few hours...I
don't know what is wrong with him... He stands and stumbles to keep his
balance and tips over once in a while...he seems so out of it.  Have you
ever heard of this...He always seems to be hot also- as in a
temperature...unless chihuahuas are always warm.

Answer
Hi Clarissa,

I don't want to panic you, but disorientation and loss of balance are serious symptoms in a dog. You dog may be having seizures.

Seizure activity does not mean that your dog will necessarily  fall over and foam at the mouth. It is very common for a dog to have a seizure and appear
"drunken" and disorientated as you've described.  

Always remain calm - your dog's behavior often reflects your behavior. If your dog is anxious or fearful, sit and comfort it.

Take note of how often the episodes happen, and the length of time your dog seems disorientated, so you can give the vet this very important information.

You need to have your dog seen by a vet ASAP.

There are fairly inexpensive drugs to help control seizure activity, and your dog can continue to live a very normal, active  and happy  life, once he gets mediation. Without the medication, the seizures can get worse, and leave your dog with brain damage.

I hope I've been a help. Best of luck,

Patti