Canine idiopathic epilepsy (IE) is a common neurological disease affecting both purebred and crossbred dogs. Certain breeds appear to be predisposed to IE with studies showing a variation between affected breeds in the areas of clinical features, inheritance and prevalence rates. Successful management of epileptic dogs depends on awareness of these breed-specific differences. This article reviews the evidence available for canine breeds identified as predisposed to IE with proven or suspected genetic background, and summarises breed- specific clinical features (e.g. age at onset, signalment, seizure type), treatment response, prevalence and proposed inheritance. In addition, certain breed-specific diseases that may be potential differentials for IE are highlighted.