My dog has a seizure. What should I do? And when do you have to go in an emergency?
Last checked 2026-07-17
- Set a timer and take video if you can without delaying assistance. Moves solid objects and prevents falls from stairs.
- Do not touch your mouth, open your jaw, or put your hands and objects in your mouth. Dogs don't swallow their tongues, but they can bite them without realizing it.
- Seizures last 3 minutes or more. Seizures multiple times in 24 hours. Does not recover normally. Suspected poisoning or injury Contact emergency immediately.
- After stopping the seizure, keep the area quiet and cool. Do not give water, food, or medicine until you are fully conscious and have received instructions.
What should you do during a seizure?
Start the timer, turn down the lights and sound. Move the chair or object away. Use barriers to prevent falls from stairs or high places without hugging yourself. Take a short video for your veterinarian to view when it is safe to do so.
Don't put your hands near your mouth. Don't try to pull your tongue. And don't force it to stop. Because dogs may bite without realizing it.
When is it an emergency?
The AKC recommends seeking immediate help after a seizure lasts more than 3 minutes. Seizures that continue for more than 5 minutes are life-threatening status epilepticus. Seizures multiple times in 24 hours, not returning to normal, difficulty breathing, overheating, pregnancy, injury, or suspicion of ingesting a toxic substance I have to go to an emergency.
Even if it stops on its own, the first seizure should be promptly investigated by a veterinarian.
After a seizure
Dogs may become confused, bump into people, be temporarily blind, be hungry or thirsty. Take them to a quiet, cool, and safe area away from stairs, children, and other animals.
Wait until you are awake and able to swallow normally before giving small amounts of water. Do not give medicine to a person or adjust anticonvulsant medication yourself. Call your veterinarian with the time of seizure, number of seizures, and anything you may have ingested.
Frequently asked questions
Do dogs have a tendency to swallow their tongues?
Do not swallow your tongue, do not open your mouth or insert your hand. Because of the risk of being bitten and causing injury to the mouth.
Once the seizures stop, do I have to see a doctor?
The first seizure should be checked quickly. And you must go to the emergency if you have seizures for a long time, many times, do not recover, or are at risk from poison or injury.
Should I cover myself with a cool cloth during the seizure?
Don't cover up or corset. Reduce the dangers around you and measure the time. If it lasts for a long time, it may become overheated and require emergency treatment.
Reference source: www.akc.org · www.vet.cornell.edu