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How to Manage Seizures in Dogs
Written By Kevin Hughes
Published: 06/04/2017Updated: 03/03/2025
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
Seizures in dogs
Seizures and convulsions affect many dogs. Because a seizure is often unexpected, when a pet suffers a seizure it can come as an unpleasant surprise. It’s frightening for a pet parent to experience and confusing for the affected dog or cat.
Many pet owners feel helpless when their four-legged friend has a seizure. What should you do to help your pet? Will it happen again in the future, and if so, is there a way to stop seizures in dogs immediately?
Seizures are a serious issue, so let’s explain what causes seizures in dogs, and how to manage seizures to ensure your pet recovers swiftly.
Many pet owners feel helpless when their four-legged friend has a seizure. What should you do to help your pet? Will it happen again in the future, and if so, is there a way to stop seizures in dogs immediately?
Seizures are a serious issue, so let’s explain what causes seizures in dogs, and how to manage seizures to ensure your pet recovers swiftly.
Managing seizures in dogs
During consultation, your vet will try to determine what might be causing your dog to have seizures. They will check for any underlying health conditions and, if identified, will prescribe a course of treatment to help improve that.
Medication might be prescribed to help manage seizures. Two examples of medication used to treat epilepsy are phenobarbital and potassium bromide, though there are side effects with both so you should consider usage carefully and prepare to discuss any issues with your vet if they arise.
Once prescribed, your dog is likely to be on anti-epilepsy medication for life to help manage the condition.
Medication might be prescribed to help manage seizures. Two examples of medication used to treat epilepsy are phenobarbital and potassium bromide, though there are side effects with both so you should consider usage carefully and prepare to discuss any issues with your vet if they arise.
Once prescribed, your dog is likely to be on anti-epilepsy medication for life to help manage the condition.
Are there any natural remedies for managing seizures in dogs?
If the thought of lifelong medication for your dog is off-putting, or your vet chooses not to prescribe any – if your pet doesn’t suffer seizures regularly, they may not – you might want to consider natural, preventative remedies instead. Are there any natural remedies to help manage the occurrence of seizures in dogs? There are! Before we look at some of these, however, it’s important to note that even 'natural' products can have serious side effects, however.
There are several natural remedies and methods designed to prevent or stop seizures in dogs. Some of the more common are:
Essential Fatty Acids
Pet owners and veterinarians alike recommend routinely introducing fatty acids into a dog’s diet. Omega-3 doses can be bought in pills, sprays, or oils. The recommended dosage varies by dog’s size, but one tablespoon per fifty pounds is standard.
Several studies both on humans and dogs have shown that while fatty acids aren’t proven to stop seizures, they may help increase a patient’s seizure threshold.
Dietary Changes
Dye used in foods have been linked to causing seizures in dogs, particularly a dye called red dye 40. Pet owners should investigate dog foods and treats before trusting them. Several other foods are proven to be dangerous and toxic to dogs as well and could be causing seizures, such as onion, garlic, bell peppers, chocolate, or grapes.
Homeopathic Oils
Oils are a popular choice as they give a pet owner the ability to administer medicine to their pet during a seizure. Due to the fact that seizures cause the jaw and teeth to clamp, attempting to give a dog medicine in the middle of a seizure is difficult or impossible.
Natural oils can be rubbed into the skin or even on the gums of a seizing animal, carefully to avoid being accidentally bitten. Thus, homeopathic substances are another natural remedy to seizures, such as:
- Belladonna
- Aconite
- Choline or Cholidin
Acupressure
Acupressure is said to help ease an animal’s tension during their seizure. For example, the pressure point at the base of a dog’s nose, right above their upper lip can be pressed, with moderate pressure, for up to a minute.
Melatonin
In animals that experience night seizures, administering melatonin (the naturally-occurring chemical released by the brain to induce sleep) can help.
Honey
If a dog has diabetes or is hypoglycemic, a teaspoon of honey once or twice a day, depending on frequency or severity of seizures, is suggested. Veterinary care to control diabetes is also recommended.
Efficacy of Natural Seizure Remedies in Dogs
Every animal varies in their seizure threshold. A high threshold indicates an animal’s predisposition to not experience or frequently experience seizures, while a low threshold indicates the opposite. When it comes to treating seizures with natural remedies and methods, the most success gained will be with a dog whose seizure threshold is high.
In some cases, genetics will predispose a dog to developing epilepsy. In this case, most veterinarians will prescribe medication in order to reach the desired result: pet experiences less severe seizures and less frequently.
Therefore, the efficacy of natural remedies varies widely and is typically utilized as more of a preventative measure than a wholly-healing treatment. The underlying cause should always be investigated by a veterinarian before trying natural remedies.
Therefore, the efficacy of natural remedies varies widely and is typically utilized as more of a preventative measure than a wholly-healing treatment. The underlying cause should always be investigated by a veterinarian before trying natural remedies.
Natural Seizure Remedies Recovery in Dogs
Due to the fact that natural remedies and methods do not require surgery or high doses of medication, there is no recovery period associated with the treatment itself. Many natural remedies do have side effects, however.
Cost of How to Manage Seizures in Dogs
Most natural seizure remedies, such as homeopathic oils, essential fatty acid pills, and other natural medicines, like melatonin, can cost anywhere between $15 to $200 per bottle or package. However, it’s highly recommended by veterinarians that the root cause of seizures be determined before treating a dog with solely natural resources.
Because seizures may be brought on by serious issues such as thyroid problems or even cancer, affected dogs should undergo a rigorous exam to determine the source of its seizures.
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Dog Natural Seizure Remedies Considerations
Most natural seizure remedies, such as homeopathic oils, essential fatty acid pills, and other natural medicines, like melatonin, can cost anywhere between $15 to $200 per bottle or package.
However, it’s highly recommended by veterinarians that the root cause of seizures be determined before treating a dog with solely natural resources. Because seizures may be brought on by serious issues such as thyroid problems or even cancer, affected dogs should undergo a rigorous exam to determine the source of their seizures.
However, it’s highly recommended by veterinarians that the root cause of seizures be determined before treating a dog with solely natural resources. Because seizures may be brought on by serious issues such as thyroid problems or even cancer, affected dogs should undergo a rigorous exam to determine the source of their seizures.
Preventing seizures in dogs
Seizure prevention can be a tricky science as there are many reasons for their occurrence, but any of the following steps can be taken to help prevent and/or ease the severity or duration of a seizure:
Seek a veterinarian’s advice
A dog that experiences seizures, whether the episodes are frequent or infrequent, should be taken to a medical professional and undergo a series of tests. This is always the first step in helping an epileptic animal.
Know dietary needs
The elimination of toxic and seizure-inducing foods from a dog’s diet is the surest method of preventing seizures. Similarly, a pet owner should know any allergies of their pet, as seizures may occur as a bodily response to exposure.
Avoid overheating
Dogs will pant heavily when they are uncomfortably hot. Pet owners should avoid exposing their dogs to long walks in high temperatures or leaving them in cramped, hot spaces or outside without water or shade.
Introduce homeopathic products
Many natural herbs and plants aim to calm tension in the body, making them great aides to pets during a seizure attack.
Natural remedies are not cited as the most reliable treatment for seizures in dogs by veterinarians, but rather as preventative measures that may help. In the end, a dog who is on a healthy, routine diet, free of toxins or any foods they may be allergic to, as well as not put in situations that could lead to overheating (left in a hot car or backyard without shade, taken on a long walk on a hot day, etc.) is less likely to develop severe seizures.
Seizures can be expensive to treat. If you suspect your dog has seizures or is at risk, start searching for pet insurance today. Brought to you by Pet Insurer, Wag! Wellness lets pet parents compare insurance plans from leading companies like PetPlan and Trupanion. Find the perfect plan for your pet in just a few clicks!
Natural Seizure Remedies Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Rhodesian ridge back
Fifteen Years
122 found this helpful
122 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
My sons dog is having seizures and drooling and peeing himself. Two of them in less than 24 hours. How can we help him?
Dec. 30, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
122 Recommendations
Hello, if he is had more than 2 seizures in 24 hours, he needs to be on seizure medication. It would be best for him to go to the emergency vet today. They can give him medication to help him stop having seizures. WIth him being 15 years old most likely these seizures are coming from a brain tumor or other issue with his brain. They can help determine the cause of these seizures. With seizures, the more your dog has the more likely they are to be very bad and he may start having a seizure and never stop.
I would recommend going to the emergency vet today.
Jan. 1, 2021
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Pit Bull
Two Years
48 found this helpful
48 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
Please help my 1 1/2 ur old pit mix, 72hrs ago started having seizures and has had 23 of them as of 5:34pm today
Dec. 15, 2020
Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
48 Recommendations
I'm sorry to hear this.
Seizures can occur for many reasons in a young dog including toxin ingestion, liver disease, an infection etc.
This many fits is a real concern and he needs to be assessed by a vet urgently. The concern is that he may have a prolonged seizure that causes permanent damage.
The vet will examine him and will likely run some blood tests so we can try to determine what is going on.
He will also be started on anti seizure medicine.
Dec. 15, 2020
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Chihuahua
Six Years
18 found this helpful
18 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
What can I give my dog for seizures without using vet prescribed medications. How much dosage should I give my 10 pound dog.
Oct. 1, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
18 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. Without a more thorough neurologic exam, I can't say what might help him, and the prescription medication to control seizures is quite inexpensive and effective. The best thing to do for him would be to have an examination with a veterinarian, make sure that that is what is happening in that he doesn't have other neurologic problems, and then discuss with them what medications might help. If there are over the counter medications that can be used, I'm sure that they will discuss that with you, although I have not seen any that really work for seizures. I hope that everything goes well for him.
Oct. 1, 2020
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Cavapoo
Pierre
5 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
Hi. I have a 5 year old Cavapoo who began with fly biting episodes within his first year. After a work up from a neuro vet, he has what is called partial seizure disorder. This is not uncommon for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels apparently. He has been on phenobarbital 2x/day for 4 years. The dose has been increased once and we monitor his phenobarbital serum level q 6 months. The past two times it has come back low but I am hesitant to increase the pheno for numerous reasons. Purina Neuro food was suggested and I understand the MCTs are good, but the food is not the quality of what I give him now. He currently is on Natural Balance Lmtd Ingredient which is more natural than most food with no wheat. What can you recommend in terms of natural supplements without changing his food??
Aug. 21, 2018
1 Recommendations
Whilst I appreciate your concerns with food, grains and other ingredients are not as bad as pet owners believe and there are very very few dogs which actually have true issues from grains; plus it is important to focus on what is important for Pierre. There are no specific supplements which I can recommend which would balance this out since each patient is different and it is a balancing act sometimes to tweak everything to get the best result; but if you’re looking for an holistic approach you should consult a Veterinarian certified in alternative therapies. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 21, 2018
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Labrador Retriever
Millie
4 Years
6 found this helpful
6 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
We have a 4 y/o lab named Millie. She started seizure about a month ago. We have had her to the vet, did blood and urine, everything was negative. We have since started doing homework but there is a plethora of info out there. We started her on a new diet Purina Pro neuro (designed for dogs who have seizures, we are giving her Milk Thistle and I have started making homemade treats. We have been giving her honey post idis, but she is ravenous!! We really would like to do a more homeopathic approach first before pharmaceutical. what do you think of CBD oil for dogs with seizure issues.
May 20, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
6 Recommendations
I personally have not seen a dog with seizures respond to anything other than medical treatment, but there may be others who have had success. If her seizures are frequent or severe, it may be better to start her on medication, then try to wean her down if you decide to try alternate therapies. Since your veterinarian has seen her and knows her situation, you can also discuss this with them, as they may have had different experiences than I have. I hope that Millie is okay.
May 20, 2018
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pit boxer
Stan
4 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
My dog started having seizures one week ago and gets anywhere from 4 to 10 a day. They are very mild and dont last but a minute so my dr doesnt think the medicine will be worth the side effect. He says the seizures look scary but that's as far as it goes, just a look. All test came up fine. I just dont like how many hes having a day does anyone know any natural foods or medicines he can take that lower the seizures to at least once a month?
Chihuahua
Buddy
5 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Jerking
Glazed Look
My dog buddy starting having seizures a little over a year ago. I thought it was an environmental factor. Since we have moved they happen less frequently but still happening. I started using essential oil Frankincense on him behind his ears and have noticed a small improvement. We did blood work it came back normal. I dont know what is causing the seizures but I hope we can stop them. He is a bit over weight. We haven't changed his dog food we use Beyond dog food, it's all he has ever had. Not sure If i should use a different dog food or try doing medicine. The Vet said meds are our best chance but i have doubt. Any help is appreciated
Pit bull/Bull dog
Gordie
5 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
1-2 Seizure Per Week
I have a Pit Bull/Bull dog mix. He is blue in color. He was also a rescue dog. We’ve had him for about a year, & seizures started about a month after we took him in. I would say that 90% or more of his seizures are at night. He has had seizures’ in the evening hours & morning. But very few. He first was prescribed phenyl barbitol. Then after going 3-4 weeks without any seizures, they would start again. I suggested a blood test for a low thyroid, which my Vet. Did do, & did come back as low. He was then put on Thyrozine, to try getting his level increased. After going 2 weeks without any seizures, we started weening the phenyl barbitol. After another 4 weeks he was off it, & seizure free. Gordie went another full week, then they suddenly came back, no particular reason. The week the seizures returned, he had 3 more, going about a day or 2 in between each one. We even had some nights of 2 seizures in a short time. Within a hour of one another. I also want to add that Gordies seizures are all somewhat short. With most of them lasting less than than 4 mins. During a seizure he has foaming at the mouth, thrashing the rear legs, urinating, then followed by a couple minutes of a zombie like state, that is enough to scare anyone. Then without any indication, will snap out of it, & have the demeaner of someone that doesn’t know what just happened. There was 1 occasion that he came out of a seizure, & was literally afraid of my Wife & I. He acted as if we beat him, or screamed at him for something. But, we have never, ever done any such thing. He did eventually come back to us, but that was probably the scariest one of all. He was very freightened by something that time. As of right now, Gordie is still having 1-2 seizures a week. Each lasting from 3-4 mins. Each seizure is typical of the next, that being almost exactly as I described earlier in my story. The medicine he is currently taking is all taken in 2 doses. The morning & night, we do our best to make them 12 hours apart daily. He takes 125mg of phenyl Barbitol. 2x’s a day, 100mg of Zonisamide 2x’s a day, & .6 mg of Thyrozine 2x’s a day. As of right now, we are trying CBD oil, but in all honesty it doesn’t look real promising. Please help!
Black Lab Mix
Howie
Two Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seizures
Howie began having seizures about a year ago, and has about one a month - lasting about 3-6 minutes. He is completely normal both before and after. The vet has prescribed both Phenobarb and Keppra, and he takes medication 3x a day but still has a monthly episode. I think he has also become anxious around strangers - perhaps a side effect of Keppra? I know anxiety and agitation is a side effect in humans. We have tried CBD oil as a supplement to calm him when we have people over, and have had wonderful results - BUT, what dosage is appropriate? How and should we use it or other natural remedies over prescribed drugs?
