Understanding Dog Seizures: A Compassionate Guide for Pet Parents
Seizures in dogs can be sudden, scary, and deeply upsetting — especially when it’s your beloved furry friend experiencing one. As pet parents, it's our instinct to want to help immediately, but knowing what to do in that critical moment can make all the difference. This blog will guide you through what a seizure looks like, what causes them, and, most importantly, how to respond with care, love, and clear action.
🧠 What is a Seizure in Dogs?
A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. It can cause a variety of symptoms depending on its severity and type. Some dogs experience full-body convulsions, while others may have milder episodes like staring into space or twitching.
Common types of seizures in dogs:
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Generalised (Grand Mal): Full-body convulsions, often with loss of consciousness.
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Focal (Partial): Twitching or abnormal movements in just one part of the body.
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Psychomotor Seizures: Strange behaviours such as biting the air or chasing invisible things.
⚠️ What Causes Seizures in Dogs?
There are many reasons a dog may have a seizure, including:
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Epilepsy (the most common cause in young dogs)
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Toxins (like chocolate, antifreeze, or xylitol)
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Liver or kidney disease
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Head trauma
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Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
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Brain tumours or infections
Sometimes, the cause may never be identified — this is called idiopathic epilepsy.
❤️ What To Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure
When your dog is having a seizure, your heart may feel like it’s going to explode. But staying calm is key — both for your dog’s safety and your own well-being. Vets recommend the following steps:
📌 Stay Calm and Keep Your Dog Safe
🟢 Gently move furniture and any sharp objects out of the way.
🟢 Do NOT try to restrain your dog or put your hands in their mouth.
🟢 Let the seizure run its course while ensuring a safe space.
📌 Time the Seizure
🟢 Check the clock — note how long the seizure lasts.
If it's under 2 minutes, it’s typically not dangerous.
Over 5 minutes = EMERGENCY.
📌 Speak Softly and Be Present
🟢 Talk gently and stay close, even if they can’t respond.
🟢 Reduce noise and lights — it helps reduce overstimulation.
📌 After the Seizure: Recovery Time
🟢 Your dog may appear confused or unsteady.
🟢 Let them rest quietly in a calm, safe space.
🟢 Offer water when they are alert, but wait before feeding.
📌 Call Your Vet — And Talk to Them, Too
🟢 Even if it’s the first seizure, call your vet.
They will guide you on what to do next and may want to examine your dog.
🟡 Speaking to a vet can help you, too. Talking to someone calm, experienced, and knowledgeable can reduce your own anxiety — which your dog will sense. Vets aren’t just there to treat your dog; they’re there to support you through these scary moments.
🩺 When is it an Emergency?
Contact your vet immediately if:
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The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
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Your dog has multiple seizures in a short time (cluster seizures)
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Your dog does not seem to recover between seizures
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You suspect they may have ingested a toxin
These situations can be life-threatening and need urgent care.
🐾 Living With a Dog Who Has Seizures
Once your dog has had a seizure, your vet may run tests to determine the cause and decide if ongoing treatment is needed. Medication, dietary changes, or lifestyle adjustments can help manage seizures long-term.
Helpful tools for pet parents:
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Seizure diary: Note when, how long, and what happened before/after the seizure.
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Medication reminders: Use a phone app to ensure no doses are missed.
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Calm environment: Reduce loud noises, flashing lights, or extreme stress.
💛 Final Thoughts
Watching your dog have a seizure is one of the hardest things a pet parent can experience. But remember — you’re not alone. With love, preparation, and professional support, your dog can still live a happy, healthy life. Always consult your vet and lean on them when you feel overwhelmed.
And above all, keep showing up with that same love and care that makes you your dog’s favourite person in the world.
If you’d like a visual guide to download or print, just let us know. We’re here for both you and your four-legged friend. 🐶❤️
