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Seeing your dog experience a seizure can be terrifying, especially if it’s your first time witnessing it. You might feel helpless and unsure of what to do. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and how to respond can make a big difference for your pet’s health and your peace of mind. Let’s break down what you need to know about dog seizures and how you can help your furry friend.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Seizures in dogs can look different depending on the type and severity. Recognizing the signs early is crucial to ensure your dog gets the care they need. Here are the most common symptoms of seizures in dogs:
- Sudden collapse or falling over
- Uncontrollable shaking or jerking movements
- Stiffening of the body
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
- Paddling movements, as if “running” while lying down
- Temporary loss of bladder or bowel control
- Disorientation, confusion, or clumsiness after the seizure (called the postictal phase)
Some dogs may also exhibit subtle signs before a seizure begins, such as pacing, whining, or appearing unusually anxious. These pre-seizure behaviors are often referred to as an “aura.”
🔍 Possible Causes
Dog seizures can have many underlying causes, ranging from mild to serious. Identifying the root cause often requires veterinary testing and evaluation. Here are some common reasons why dogs may have seizures:
- Epilepsy: A common neurological condition causing recurring seizures
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially in small breeds
- Head trauma or injury
- Exposure to toxins, such as chocolate, xylitol, or certain medications
- Brain tumors, particularly in older dogs
- Liver disease or kidney failure
- Infectious diseases, such as canine distemper
- Genetic factors, as some breeds are predisposed to seizures
In some cases, the exact cause of seizures cannot be determined, a condition known as idiopathic epilepsy. This is more common in younger dogs and certain breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Beagles.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If your dog has a seizure, it’s natural to panic. However, staying calm and taking the right steps can help keep your pet safe during the episode. Here’s what to do:
- Move your dog to a safe area away from stairs, sharp objects, or furniture they could injure themselves on.
- Do not try to hold your dog down or put anything in their mouth. They will not swallow their tongue, but you could get bitten.
- Time the seizure. Most seizures last between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. If it lasts longer than 5 minutes, it’s an emergency.
- Speak softly to your dog to reassure them, but avoid loud noises or sudden movements that might startle them.
- After the seizure, allow your dog to rest in a quiet, comfortable space. They may be disoriented for a while.
Keep a seizure log to track how often seizures occur, their duration, and any patterns you notice. This information can help your vet make a diagnosis and recommend treatment.
💡 When to Call a Vet
While some seizures may not require immediate emergency care, others can be life-threatening. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic if:
- The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
- Your dog has multiple seizures in a row (cluster seizures)
- Your dog does not fully recover between seizures
- The seizure occurs after trauma, toxin exposure, or a suspected poisoning
- Your dog is experiencing their first seizure
Even if the seizure seems mild, it’s always a good idea to follow up with your vet. They may recommend blood tests, imaging, or other diagnostics to determine the cause and discuss treatment options.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, long-term seizure management often involves medications such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide (source).
FAQs
Q: Can stress cause seizures in dogs?
A: Stress alone is unlikely to cause seizures, but it can act as a trigger in dogs with underlying conditions like epilepsy. Reducing stress and maintaining a consistent routine can help minimize episodes.
Q: What should I do after my dog has a seizure?
A: After a seizure, keep your dog calm and allow them to rest. Offer water if they seem thirsty, but avoid feeding them until they are fully alert. Monitor their behavior and contact your vet for advice.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
