Seizures in dogs are always alarming, and when they seem to be triggered by stress, it can be even more concerning for owners.
Stress-related seizures can happen in dogs of any age and may point to underlying health issues that need attention.
We outline the common causes of dog seizures due to stress, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Seizures Due to Stress — Why It Happens
Stress can play a role in triggering seizures in dogs, but it is rarely the only cause. Underlying neurological conditions, metabolic imbalances, toxins, or previous brain injuries can all make a dog more prone to seizures, with stress acting as a tipping point.
Loud noises, travel, changes in routine, or separation anxiety can add to the risk in susceptible dogs. For some, stress simply lowers the seizure threshold, making an episode more likely to occur.
Dog Seizures Due to Stress: Common Causes
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is one of the most common causes of seizures in dogs. In epileptic dogs, the brain’s electrical activity becomes disrupted, leading to sudden convulsions.
Stress can increase the likelihood of a seizure in an epileptic dog. You might notice twitching, paddling of the legs, drooling, or loss of consciousness during an episode.
Because epilepsy is a chronic condition, management is important to reduce stress and minimize episodes.
Read more: Dog shaking like seizure (Here’s why)
Brain Injury or Trauma
A past head injury can leave lasting changes in a dog’s brain function. Even if the dog seemed to recover well initially, scarring or damage in certain brain areas can increase seizure risk.
Stressful situations can heighten brain activity and trigger seizures in dogs with a history of head trauma.
You may also see personality changes, disorientation, or unusual behavior between seizures.
Toxins or Poisoning
Some toxins, such as certain plants, pesticides, or human medications, can directly cause seizures.
Dogs already exposed to low levels of toxins may experience an episode when stressed, as their bodies become less able to cope.
If your dog’s seizure follows possible toxin exposure, you may also notice vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or collapse. This is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Low blood sugar can disrupt brain function and lead to seizures. Small breeds, puppies, and diabetic dogs are most at risk.
Stress can accelerate glucose use in the body, causing levels to drop faster. Signs may include weakness, confusion, trembling, or collapse before a seizure begins.
Heat Stress or Heatstroke
High temperatures can cause the body to overheat, leading to brain swelling and seizures.
Dogs in stressful, hot environments—such as traveling in a car without proper ventilation—are particularly vulnerable.
Early symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, and weakness. If heatstroke progresses, seizures can occur, and this situation is life-threatening.
Infections Affecting the Brain
Certain infections, like canine distemper or meningitis, can inflame the brain and cause seizures. Stress on the immune system can make symptoms worse.
Dogs with brain infections may also show fever, neck pain, changes in vision, or unusual vocalizations alongside seizures.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Having a Seizure Due to Stress
If your dog is having a seizure, keep them safe by moving objects away and ensuring they are in a comfortable space where they cannot injure themselves.
Avoid putting your hands near their mouth, as involuntary jaw movements could cause accidental bites.
After the seizure stops, stay calm and speak softly to help your dog recover. Offer fresh water and allow them to rest in a quiet, familiar environment.
If stress appears to be a trigger, take steps to minimize stressful events in their daily routine.
This may include creating a predictable schedule, avoiding sudden changes, and providing calming aids or enrichment.
Your veterinarian may recommend anti-seizure medication, especially if episodes become frequent. Always keep a seizure diary to track frequency, duration, and potential triggers.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog’s seizure lasts more than five minutes, if multiple seizures occur close together, or if they do not fully recover between episodes.
You should also contact your vet if this is your dog’s first seizure, if they have other health conditions, or if you suspect toxin exposure.
Signs that require urgent attention include difficulty breathing, severe disorientation, persistent vomiting, or collapse. These may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Read more: Dog Seizure and Not Eating (Explained)
Key Takeaway
Stress can trigger seizures in dogs, but it is often a sign of an underlying medical issue.
By identifying and managing both the medical and emotional factors, you can help reduce your dog’s risk.
Work closely with your veterinarian to develop a tailored treatment and stress-reduction plan. With the right care, many dogs with stress-related seizures can live long, happy lives.