Seeing your dog have a seizure can be absolutely terrifying. One moment, they're fine - then suddenly, they collapse, twitch, or freeze up, completely unresponsive. It's hard to know what to do in the moment, but staying calm is key. ðĪ
Seizures happen for all sorts of reasons, from epilepsy to low blood sugar or even something your dog might have eaten. While it's always a shock, knowing how to handle a seizure can help keep your pup safe and prevent further harm.
In this detailed guide, we'll cover what to do during and after a seizure, how to stop seizures in dogs immediately, when to call the vet, and how to reduce the risk of future episodes.
What are dog seizures?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. This can cause a range of physical reactions, from full-body convulsions to brief moments of disorientation. Some dogs collapse and shake violently, while others simply stare blankly or lose control of their movements.
Seizures can vary in length and severity. Some last only a few seconds, while others go on for minutes and leave your dog confused or unsteady afterwards.
What does a dog seizure look like?
Seizures can be dramatic and distressing to witness, especially if you've never seen one before.
If you're wondering, "what do seizures look like in a dog?", the answer depends on the type and severity of the seizure.
Generalised (grand mal) seizures
This is the most common and recognisable type of seizure. It affects the whole body and usually follows a pattern:
- Pre-ictal phase (aura)
Before the seizure, your dog may seem restless, confused, or anxious. They might pace, drool, or seek attention. - Ictal phase (seizure itself)
The dog collapses, loses consciousness, and starts convulsing. Their legs may paddle, their jaw might clench, and they may drool excessively, whimper, or even lose control of their bladder or bowels. - Post-ictal phase (recovery)
After the seizure stops, your dog may be disoriented, unsteady on their feet, or temporarily blind. Some dogs pace, whine, or seem exhausted for minutes to hours afterward.
Focal seizures
Focal seizures only affect one part of the brain, so the symptoms are less obvious. Instead of full-body convulsions, you might notice:
- Twitching or spasms in the face, ears, or limbs.
- Repetitive chewing motions or lip smacking.
- Sudden head shaking or jerking movements.
- Unusual behaviour, like snapping at invisible objects.
Focal seizures can sometimes escalate into generalised seizures if the abnormal brain activity spreads.
Absence (petit mal) seizures
Less common in dogs, absence seizures look like brief moments of zoning out. Your dog may suddenly freeze, stare blankly, and become unresponsive for a few seconds before snapping back to normal. Unlike other seizures, there are no convulsions or dramatic movements.
Although any type of canine seizure is alarming, the seizures themselves aren't painful - but they can be dangerous if your dog falls, injures themselves, or has multiple episodes in a short period.

What causes seizures in dogs?
Seizures in dogs can be triggered by a range of underlying issues, from genetic conditions to external factors like toxins or illness. Some seizures are a one-off event, while others become a recurring problem that needs long-term management. Understanding the possible causes can help you take the right steps to protect your dog's health.
Idiopathic epilepsy
The most common cause of seizures in dogs is idiopathic epilepsy - a neurological condition that leads to repeated seizures with no clear trigger. It's often inherited and usually appears in young to middle-aged dogs.
Idiopathic epilepsy tends to run in certain breeds, including:
- Border Collies
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Beagles
- German Shepherds
- Belgian Malinois
If a dog has idiopathic epilepsy, their brain has a lower seizure threshold, meaning their neurons are more likely to misfire and trigger a seizure. Nobody fully understands what causes epilepsy in dogs but it's thought to be a mix of genetics and subtle biochemical imbalances in the brain. ð§
While idiopathic epilepsy can't be cured, it can often be managed with medication to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Toxins and poisoning
Certain substances can trigger seizures if ingested, including:
- Chocolate. ðŦ
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and sweets). ðŽ
- Grapes and raisins. ð
- Some human medications (e.g., ibuprofen and antidepressants). ð
- Pesticides and rodenticides. ð
- Certain plants, like azaleas and sago palms. ðŠī
If your dog has a seizure and you suspect they've eaten something toxic, contact a vet immediately. Acting quickly can make a huge difference in preventing further harm.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
When a dog's blood sugar drops too low, it can affect brain function and trigger seizures. This is more common in small breeds, puppies, and diabetic dogs, especially if they've missed a meal or exercised more than usual. If your dog is prone to low blood sugar, feeding them small, frequent meals can help prevent episodes.
Liver or kidney disease
Both the liver and kidneys play a key role in filtering toxins from the body. If they aren't working properly, waste products can build up in the bloodstream and affect brain function, sometimes leading to seizures. This is more common in older dogs or those with conditions like liver shunts or kidney failure.

Head trauma and brain injuries
A past head injury - even one that seemed minor at the time - can sometimes cause seizures later in life. This could be due to scar tissue or long-term changes in brain function. If your dog has had a significant fall, accident, or blow to the head, it's always best to get them checked by a vet.
Brain tumours
Seizures in older dogs can sometimes be a sign of a brain tumour. While this sounds alarming, not all tumours are aggressive, and some can be treated with medication, surgery, or radiotherapy. If a dog develops seizures later in life, with no previous history, a vet may recommend imaging tests to check for abnormalities.
Heatstroke ðĨĩ
Overheating can cause severe neurological symptoms, including seizures. Flat-faced breeds, like Bulldogs and Pugs, are especially vulnerable, as are dogs left in hot environments without shade or water. Preventing heatstroke by avoiding excessive exercise in hot weather and providing plenty of water is crucial. You should never leave a dog unattended in a car unless the vehicle has a dedicated Dog Mode to regulate temperature and ensure their safety.
What to do if your dog has a seizure
If your dog is experiencing a seizure, staying calm and knowing what to do can make a big difference. Seizures often look dramatic, but your priority should be to keep your dog safe and monitor the episode carefully.
Seizures usually last between 30 seconds and two minutes, though they can feel much longer in the moment. While most single seizures aren't life-threatening, a seizure lasting more than five minutes, or multiple seizures in a row, is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Step-by-step guide to handling a seizure
1. Stay calm and check the time âąïļ
It's crucial to time the seizure from the moment it starts. Even though it may feel endless, most seizures stop on their own within a couple of minutes. Timing helps you assess severity and provide accurate information to your vet.
2. Keep your dog safe
Move furniture, sharp objects, or anything they could injure themselves on out of the way. If they're near stairs or in a dangerous spot, gently slide them onto a safer surface without restraining them.
3. Do not touch their mouth
Your dog will not swallow their tongue - this is a common myth. However, trying to hold their mouth open could result in an accidental bite. Let them move naturally without interference.
4. Dim the lights and reduce noise
Seizures can make dogs extra sensitive to light and sound. If possible, turn off bright lights, lower background noise, and ask others to stay quiet to create a calm environment.
5. Record the seizure (if possible) ðđ
If you can safely do so, take a short video on your phone. This can help your vet assess the type and severity of the seizure, which is useful for diagnosis and treatment planning.

6. Stay with them and comfort them afterwards
The post-seizure (post-ictal) phase can leave dogs confused, disoriented, or temporarily blind. Speak to them gently, offer water, and keep them in a quiet, safe space until they recover fully.
7. Call your vet if needed âïļ
If it's your dog's first seizure, lasts longer than two minutes, or they have multiple seizures close together, contact your vet for advice. They may recommend a check-up or emergency visit, depending on the circumstances. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Dos and don'ts during a seizure
- DO stay calm and monitor your dog closely.
- DO move objects out of the way to prevent injury.
- DO time the seizure and take a video if possible.
- DO keep the environment quiet and dimly lit.
- DO call your vet if it's a long or repeated seizure.
- DON'T try to hold your dog down or stop their movements.
- DON'T put your hands near their mouth - they may bite unintentionally.
- DON'T try to force water, food, or medication into their mouth.
- DON'T panic - most seizures resolve on their own in under two minutes.
- DON'T assume it's a one-time event, as seizures can be a sign of underlying health issues.
When is a seizure an emergency?
Not all seizures require urgent medical attention, but some situations can quickly become life-threatening.
Knowing when to act and seek urgent veterinary treatment can make a crucial difference in your dog's safety and recovery.
Seizures lasting more than two minutes
We recommend you contact your veterinarian if your dog is experiencing a seizure longer than two minutes in length.
A seizure that continues for more than five minutes - known as status epilepticus - is an immediate emergency.
The longer a seizure lasts, the higher the risk of:
- Brain damage due to prolonged abnormal electrical activity.
- Dangerous rises in body temperature, leading to potential organ damage.
- Oxygen deprivation, which can cause lasting harm to the brain and other tissues.
If your dog is still seizing after five minutes, or if they show no sign of recovery between episodes, get them to a vet immediately. Don't hesitate to call the emergency vet out-of-hours.
Multiple seizures in a short time (cluster seizures)
If your dog has two or more seizures within 24 hours, or experiences multiple seizures without regaining full awareness in between, these are classed as cluster seizures. They can escalate quickly and lead to status epilepticus. Even if the individual seizures are short, repeated episodes put enormous strain on the brain and body. A vet may need to administer emergency medication to break the cycle and prevent further seizures.

Breathing issues or cyanosis
During a seizure, your dog may momentarily stop breathing, but they should quickly start again as the seizure resolves. If you notice:
- Laboured breathing or gasping after the seizure ends.
- Blue or pale gums/tongue (a sign of oxygen deprivation).
- Weakness or collapse after the seizure.
This could indicate a serious complication, such as fluid buildup in the lungs (aspiration pneumonia) or underlying neurological distress. Seek veterinary help immediately.
Seizures in puppies, seniors, or sick dogs
While epilepsy may not always pose a significant risk to otherwise healthy young adult dogs, seizures in certain groups can signal a more serious problem:
- Puppies ð
Seizures may be due to infections, congenital conditions, or blood sugar imbalances. - Senior dogs ðĐ
A sudden seizure in an older dog can indicate a stroke, brain tumour, or organ failure. - Dogs with known medical conditions
Seizures can be a symptom of worsening liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes.
If your dog falls into any of these categories and has a seizure, it's safest to get them checked by a vet.
Seizures after suspected toxin exposure
As discussed earlier, certain toxins can trigger seizures, and in these cases, the seizures won't stop until the poison is treated.
If your dog has a seizure and you suspect poisoning (or see evidence of chewed-up food, pills, or plants), they require immediate veterinary attention.
Common culprits include:
- Chocolate, xylitol, and certain fruits (e.g., grapes, raisins).
- Rodent poison and pesticides.
- Human medications like ibuprofen, antidepressants, and blood pressure tablets.
A first-time seizure
If your dog has never had a seizure before, it's always a good idea to get them checked by a vet. Even if the seizure is brief, it could be the first sign of an underlying health issue. A veterinary exam and possible blood tests or imaging can help determine if treatment is needed.
What to do in an emergency ðĻ
- Time the seizure and if it lasts more than five minutes, call the vet immediately.
- Ensure a safe environment by moving objects out of the way to prevent injury.
- Check for breathing issues and if your dog struggles to breathe or turns blue, seek emergency care.
- Contact your vet or emergency clinic, providing the details of the seizure, how long it lasted, and any unusual symptoms.
While many seizures resolve on their own, some situations require urgent action. Knowing the warning signs can help you respond quickly and keep your dog safe.
How to treat seizures in dogs
Seizures can be frightening, but with the right treatment, many dogs can lead normal, happy lives.
Treatment focuses on managing seizures, reducing their frequency and severity, and addressing any underlying causes.
While some dogs may have only a single seizure with no recurrence whatsoever, others require long-term medical intervention to keep their condition under control.

Emergency treatment for seizures ð
If your dog has a prolonged seizure (lasting over five minutes) or multiple seizures in a short period, they will need immediate veterinary care.
Emergency treatment typically involves:
- Intravenous (IV) medication
Drugs like diazepam (Valium), midazolam, or levetiracetam are used to stop an ongoing seizure. - Oxygen therapy
If breathing is compromised, oxygen support may be necessary. - Cooling measures ð§
If the seizure has caused overheating (or was caused by overheating), vets may apply cool fluids or fans to prevent further heat-related complications. - Hospital monitoring ðĨ
Dogs with prolonged or cluster seizures may need to stay in a veterinary hospital for further observation and stabilisation.
If a toxin or metabolic issue is the cause, treatment will focus on removing the toxin or correcting the underlying imbalance (e.g., glucose for hypoglycemia).
Long-term management of seizures
For dogs diagnosed with epilepsy or another chronic seizure condition, daily medication is often necessary. Anti-seizure drugs help reduce seizure frequency and severity, though they don't cure the condition.
Common anti-seizure medications
- Phenobarbital
One of the most commonly prescribed drugs, effective but requires regular blood tests to monitor liver function. - Potassium Bromide
Often used alongside phenobarbital or as an alternative, especially in dogs with liver concerns. - Levetiracetam (Keppra)
A newer option with fewer side effects, often used for dogs that don't tolerate traditional medications. - Zonisamide
Another alternative, useful for dogs who need additional seizure control with fewer side effects.
Not all dogs need medication after a single seizure. Vets typically recommend starting long-term treatment if:
- Seizures occur more than once every 2-3 months.
- The dog has cluster seizures (multiple in a short period).
- Seizures are severe or prolonged.
- The underlying cause is progressive (e.g., a brain tumour).
Once a dog starts anti-seizure medication, it must be given consistently. Stopping medication suddenly can trigger severe rebound seizures, which can be life-threatening.

Dog seizure diary ð
We'd also recommend you complete a dog seizure diary, so you can monitor your dog's condition and communicate any changes to your veterinarian. Since seizures can be unpredictable, tracking them helps identify patterns, triggers, and whether treatment is working.
Each time your dog has a seizure, record the following details in the dog seizure diary:
- Date and time ðïļ
Helps track frequency and whether seizures occur at specific times. - Duration âąïļ
Knowing how long the seizure lasts is crucial for assessing severity. - Symptoms
Note whether it was a full-body (generalised) seizure, a focal seizure, or an absence seizure. - Possible triggers
Was there excitement, stress, flashing lights, or a recent meal change? - Post-seizure recovery
How long did it take for your dog to return to normal? Were they disoriented, restless, or weak?
If possible, take a short video of the seizure to share with your vet. This helps them assess the type of seizure and adjust treatment if needed. A well-maintained seizure diary can improve management decisions, making it easier to track progress and detect worsening symptoms early.
Diet and lifestyle adjustments
While medication is the main treatment, lifestyle changes can help reduce seizure triggers:
- Maintain a consistent routine
Sudden changes in sleep, food, or stress levels can increase seizure risk. - Avoid known triggers
Some dogs have triggers like flashing lights, loud noises, or excitement that can bring on a seizure. - Provide a balanced diet ðĶī
Some research suggests that ketogenic diets (high in fat, low in carbs) may help some epileptic dogs, though more studies are needed. - Use supplements (if advised by your vet)
Some dogs benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, MCT oil, or CBD oil, though these should only be introduced under veterinary supervision. - Regular vet check-ups â
Dogs on seizure medication need regular monitoring to ensure the drugs are effective and not causing harmful side effects. Routine blood tests help assess liver function, medication levels, and overall health. If seizures become more frequent despite medication, your vet may adjust the dosage or switch medications.

How to stop seizures in dogs immediately âžïļ
The only way to stop an ongoing seizure immediately is with fast-acting medication such as diazepam (Valium), midazolam, or levetiracetam. These drugs work by calming abnormal electrical activity in the brain, bringing the seizure to an end.
If your dog is experiencing a prolonged or severe seizure, a veterinarian can administer these medications via injection or intravenously. However, if your dog has a history of seizures, your vet may prescribe rectal or intranasal diazepam for you to use at home in an emergency. These formulations are absorbed quickly and can help stop a seizure before it escalates.
If your dog has a seizure that lasts more than five minutes or multiple seizures close together, seek emergency veterinary care immediately - even if medication has been given. Emergency intervention may still be needed to stabilise your dog and prevent further seizures.
Can seizures be cured?
If the seizures are caused by a treatable condition, such as toxin exposure, an infection, or a metabolic issue, treating the root cause can stop the seizures entirely.
However, idiopathic epilepsy and some neurological disorders require lifelong management rather than a cure.
With the right treatment, many dogs with epilepsy live full and happy lives. Understanding their condition, following veterinary advice, and managing their environment can make a huge difference to their well-being. ðķ
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