PupkeeperFirst aid
Seizures (fits): dog first aid
Use this when your dog is having a fit: shaking, paddling its legs, foaming at the mouth or losing control of its bladder.
Get your dog to a vet as soon as you can
Find an emergency vetWhat to do
- Stay calm. If your dog is on a sofa or bed, carefully move it to the floor.
- Clear space around your dog and pad hard edges with cushions or a blanket.
- Dim the lights and keep the room quiet and cool.
- Time the seizure, and video it if you can.
- Call your vet right away if it lasts more than 2 minutes, or if your dog has more than one in 24 hours.
- Wait until the seizure stops before moving your dog, unless your vet says otherwise.
- Once it stops, keep your dog warm and quiet, and call your vet.
Don't
- Don't hold your dog down or try to stop the seizure.
- Don't put your hands or anything else in or near its mouth.
- Don't shout at, shake or wrap up your dog.
Signs
- Shaking, trembling or paddling legs
- Foaming at the mouth
- Peeing or pooping without control
- Confused or wobbly afterward
Why
Most seizures last a few minutes, but long or repeated seizures are an emergency. Keeping your dog safe and timing the fit helps your vet.
Sources
- PDSA: What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure
- AVMA: Pet First Aid (client brochure)
- Blue Cross: Emergencies and First Aid in Dogs
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.