This is a central nervous system disorder caused by a low level sugar in the blood (hypoglycaemia). It occurs mainly in Toy breeds (Spitzes, Pekinese, Chihuahas, etc) between six and 12 weeks of age. Often, it is precipitated by stress.
The first signs are those of listlessness and depression. They are followed by muscular weakness, tremors (especially in the facial muscles), and later convulsions, coma and ultimately, death. The entire sequence is not always seen. The dog may simply appear to be depressed or he may be weak, wobbly and jerky; or he may be found in a coma.
Hypoglycaemia can occur without warning when a puppy is placed in a new home, or while being shipped. It might appear after a puppy