By Courtney Prue | August 24, 2025

Seizures In Dogs: Causes, Triggers, And Treatment

What is a seizure?

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including convulsions, loss of consciousness, and muscle spasms. They generally last for 30 seconds to a few minutes but can have lasting effects for up to 24hrs afterwards.

What causes a seizure?

There are many possible causes of seizures in dogs. These include:

• Epilepsy: This is the most common cause of seizures in dogs. It is a genetic condition that affects the brain’s electrical activity. These types of seizures usually start in dogs when they are 6 years old or younger, and the condition is usually life-long. It is a diagnosis of exclusion, with other causes ruled out first. 
• Brain tumours: These can cause seizures by putting pressure on the brain. Seizures due to this usually occur in older dogs, over the age of 7 but can occur in younger dogs. 
• Metabolic disorders: Imbalances in blood sugar, electrolytes, and other chemicals can cause seizures.
• Toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals or drugs can cause seizures.
• Trauma: Head injuries can cause seizures.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as meningitis, can cause seizures.

How do I know if my dog has a seizure?

The symptoms of a seizure can vary widely, but they often include some combination of the following:

• Convulsions: This is the most apparent symptom of a seizure. Dogs may thrash around, stiffen up, or paddle their legs. 
• Loss of consciousness: Dogs may appear to be “out of it” during a seizure, and may not respond to their owners.
• Muscle spasms: Dogs may experience muscle contractions or twitching during a seizure. They don’t always present as full body spasms, and may only be a single area, or they may seem frozen and staring.
• Salivation: Dogs may drool excessively during a seizure.
• Urination or defecation: Dogs may lose control of their bladder or bowels during a seizure.
• Vocalisation: Dogs may cry out or make other noises during a seizure.

Post-ictal signs are the lasting behaviours or symptoms you might notice in the 24 hours following a seizure event. They include confusion, disorientation, lethargy, weakness, unsteady gait, and abnormal behaviour such as pacing, vocalising or hiding. They may also seem to temporarily lose senses such as eye sight and hearing.

If you notice any of these signs for the first time, get in touch with your regular veterinarian or our team. 

Is a seizure an emergency? 

Seizures in dogs can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Knowing the signs and symptoms of an emergency can help you act quickly and potentially save your dog’s life. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for that indicate an emergency:

• Seizures that last longer than five minutes
• Multiple seizures in a row without full recovery in between
• Seizures that occur in rapid succession (having more than 2-3 seizures in a 24 hour period)
• Abnormal breathing or loss of consciousness during or after the seizure
• Inability to stand or walk after the seizure
• Excessive abnormal behaviour or confusion that persists after the seizure

If you observe any of these symptoms, seeking immediate veterinary attention is important. Time is critical in emergency situations, and a delay in treatment can have serious consequences for your dog’s health. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian, our team or an emergency veterinary clinic for guidance on how to proceed.

What do I do if my dog is having a seizure?

If you witness your dog having a seizure, it can be a terrifying experience. However, there are steps you can take to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during and after the seizure. Here’s what you can do:

• Stay calm: Although it’s natural to feel scared or helpless during a seizure, it’s important to remain as calm as possible. 
• Protect your dog: During a seizure, your dog may lose control of its body and become disoriented. To prevent injury, move any objects or furniture away from your dog and create a clear space. If your dog is on a higher surface, such as a bed or couch, gently guide it onto the floor.
• Do not restrain your dog: It’s essential not to restrain your dog during a seizure. Dogs can become agitated or aggressive, and holding them down may cause them to panic, hurting themselves or others. Instead, stay close by, keeping your hands and face away from your dog’s mouth.
• Time the seizure: During a seizure, it can be challenging to know how long it will last. However, it’s essential to try to time it accurately, as this information can be helpful to your vet. Use a watch or clock to note the start time and end time of the seizure.
• Monitor your dog: Once the seizure has ended, keep an eye on your dog and note any post-seizure signs. These signs may include disorientation, confusion, or temporary blindness.
• Call your vet: If your dog has a seizure for the first time or is having them more frequently than before, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian or our team as soon as possible. They may advise you to bring your dog in for an examination or suggest that you monitor your dog for any changes in behaviour or further seizures.

How is the cause of a seizure diagnosed?

If you suspect that your dog is having seizures, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will likely perform a variety of tests to determine the underlying cause of the seizures. These may include:

• Blood work: This can help identify any underlying metabolic disorders or infections, and rule in or out the possibility of a toxin. It also helps assess their overall health and whether treatment is possible. 
• Urinalysis: This can help explore any underlying kidney  problems that could contribute to the seizure disorder, or impact treatment options. 
• MRI or CT scan: These imaging tests can help identify any brain tumours or other abnormalities.
• Spinal tap: This can help identify any underlying infections. This is a specialist procedure only. 

Is there treatment for my dog’s seizures?

Treatment for seizures will depend on the underlying cause. If there is a trigger such as trauma, metabolic disturbances, toxic insult or infection then addressing that will often prevent further seizures.

When a pet has a brain tumour or epilepsy, anti-epileptic drugs may be prescribed to help control the seizures long term. It is important to note that some medications used to treat seizures in dogs can have potential side effects, such as lethargy, liver damage and increased thirst or urination. The specific medications recommended by your veterinarian will depend on the underlying cause of the seizures, the frequency and severity of the seizures, and your dog’s overall health. Your vet will also recommend regular blood work to check the drug dosage is correct, and monitor the liver for any long-term impacts of the medications.

Medications often prescribed include:

• Phenobarbital: This is a barbiturate medication that is commonly used to treat seizures in dogs and it works by decreasing the excitability of the brain cells that can cause seizures. It is often prescribed as a long-term treatment option for dogs with epilepsy, and it can take several weeks to reach effective levels in the bloodstream.
• Potassium Bromide: This medication is a type of anticonvulsant and is often combined with phenobarbital or as a standalone treatment option. 
• Diazepam: This is a short-acting benzodiazepine medication that can help stop seizures in progress. Diazepam can be given orally, rectally, or through the bloodstream, depending on the situation.
• Levetiracetam: This is a newer anticonvulsant medication that is becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of seizures in dogs. It is often used in combination with other medications.
• Zonisamide: This medication is an anticonvulsant that can be used as a standalone treatment option or in combination with other medications. 

How can I help my dog with seizures at home?

In addition to medication, there are some lifestyle changes that can help manage seizures in dogs. These include:

• Maintaining a consistent routine: Regular exercise, meal times, and sleep schedules can help minimise stress and reduce the likelihood of seizures.
• Avoiding triggers: Some dogs may have seizures triggered by certain stimuli, such as flashing lights, stress or loud noises. Try to identify any potential triggers and avoid them if possible.
• Providing a safe environment: Dogs with seizures may be at risk of injury during a seizure. Make sure your home is free of sharp objects or hazards that could cause harm during a seizure.
• Feeding your dog a healthy and balanced diet
• Ensuring your dog gets enough exercise and rest

An in-home veterinary assessment can also be helpful to identify any other areas of improvement that can help your beloved pet stay comfortable for as long as possible. 

How long can my dog live with seizures?

The prognosis for dogs with seizures depends on the underlying cause and how well they respond to medication. Some dogs may be able to live a relatively normal life with proper management of their seizures, while others may experience more severe seizures or complications. If they seem increasingly uncomfortable or their quality of life is impacted, palliative care may be the kindest option. 

Is my seizuring dog suffering?

Seizures can have a significant impact on a dog’s health and well-being, and there are several complications associated with the condition. Some of the most common complications of seizures in dogs include:

• Injury: During a seizure, dogs may thrash around and fall, potentially injuring themselves on nearby objects or furniture.
• Exhaustion: Seizures can be very exhausting for dogs, and they may sleep for hours afterwards. This can disrupt their normal sleep patterns and leave them feeling tired and lethargic for days afterwards.
• Brain damage: Seizures can cause damage to the brain over time, particularly if they are left untreated, are very severe or occur frequently.
• Anxiety and stress: Seizures can be very stressful and anxiety-inducing for both dogs and their owners. Frequent seizures can also disrupt the dog’s routine and lead to further stress and anxiety.
• Medication side effects: The medications used to treat seizures can have side effects, including drowsiness, lethargy, liver damage and increase in thirst. It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s response to medication and adjust the dosage as needed to minimise side effects.

End-of-life care tips:

If your dog’s seizures or underlying condition has progressed to a point where treatment is no longer effective or their symptoms are too severe, it’s important to consider end-of-life care options, including possibly putting your dog to sleep (euthanasia). This can be an overwhelming and distressing thing to even think about. Rest Your Paws is here to support you and provide compassionate care for your beloved pet throughout their journey.

Here are some end-of-life care tips for dogs experiencing seizures:

• Keep them hydrated and well-nourished with some delicious food
• Spend quality time with them, making the most of every moment, such as with a bucket list.
• Offer a calm and peaceful environment, free from stressors that can exacerbate symptoms
• Administer medications as prescribed for pain management and symptom relief. Your veterinarian may send you home with medications to give in an emergency, such as diazepam, to stop very severe seizures. 
• Evaluate their quality of life regularly, or reach out to a palliative care vet to help you with this. 
• Consult our End of Life Care Pack to get prepared to put your dog to sleep.
• Track good days and bad days on our Quality of Life Assessment Calendar.

Please know that we are here to support you every step of the way. We understand that this is a challenging time for you and your family, and we are committed to providing you with the guidance and care that you and your furry friend deserve. If you want to learn more about putting your pet to sleep, dog euthanasia at home, options to put your pet down at home, costs of euthanasia at home or what it looks like to put your pet to sleep at home, call us on 0422 157 675 or visit our website.

Seizures can be a scary and difficult experience for both your dog and your family. However, by working closely with your veterinarian and ensuring the proper management and care, dogs with seizures can still live happy and fulfilling lives.

Remember, the most important thing is to focus on giving your dog the love and attention they deserve. By working together, we can help your dog enjoy a happy, comfortable life for as long as possible. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns – we are here to help.

Rest Your Paws

We offer in-home pet euthanasia for dogs and cats. Say goodbye with peace and dignity to your beloved pet. Professional and experienced end of life support.