Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder in dogs, causing recurring seizures that are distressing for both dogs and owners, and requiring lifelong management to minimise seizure frequency and medication side effects.
Canine epilepsy causes suffering in two distinct phases: the seizure itself, during which dogs are unconscious and experiencing uncontrolled neurological activity, and the post-ictal period, during which dogs may be confused, distressed, and disoriented for hours. Poorly controlled epilepsy progressively impairs quality of life and may cause brain damage through repeated hypoxia. The goal of treatment is not merely reducing seizure frequency but preserving overall quality of life — including from medication side effects like sedation, polyphagia, and liver disease. Regular monitoring of drug levels, liver enzymes, and quality-of-life scoring guides treatment optimisation. Dogs with refractory epilepsy benefit from specialist neurological referral and consideration of adjunctive therapies.