How to test for epilepsy in dogs?

Watching your dog collapse into a seizure is one of the scariest moments a pet owner can face. Those convulsions, the confused stare afterward, the way their body goes rigid—you’ll do anything to find answers. Epilepsy in dogs isn’t rare, but figuring out if that’s what’s happening takes more than just guessing. It starts with knowing what to look for, and then letting the experts guide the tests.

First, you need to spot the signs between seizures. Not all episodes look the same. Some dogs zone out for a few seconds, others paddle their legs wildly. You might notice them drooling, chomping their jaws, or losing control of their bladder. Jotting down details helps—when it happens, how long it lasts, if there’s a pattern, like after exercise or during stress. Vets call these “seizure logs,” and they’re the first step in narrowing things down. Without this info, even the best tests can miss the mark.

Once you’ve got those notes, a vet will start with a physical exam. They’ll check for signs of other issues—like low blood sugar, liver problems, or even a head injury—that can cause seizures too. Blood work and urine tests usually follow. These rule out infections, toxin exposure, or thyroid issues, which can mimic epilepsy. It’s not about jumping to worst-case scenarios; it’s about crossing off other possibilities first.

If those come back clear, the vet might suggest more specific tests. An MRI or CT scan looks at the brain for tumors, inflammation, or structural issues. These aren’t cheap, but they’re crucial for ruling out causes that need different treatments than epilepsy. Then there’s an EEG, which measures brain activity. It can pick up the electrical misfires that signal epilepsy, especially in dogs that have frequent seizures. Not every case needs these, but they’re game-changers when they’re needed.

Timing matters, too. Many vets recommend waiting until your dog has had at least two unprovoked seizures before diving into epilepsy tests. One-off episodes can happen for all sorts of reasons—maybe they ate something odd or got overheated. Jumping into expensive scans after a single incident might not be necessary, and responsible pet care means balancing caution with common sense.

It’s also worth remembering that managing epilepsy often involves following local guidelines for pet health. Some regions require documentation of chronic conditions if you’re traveling with your dog, or when accessing certain pet care services. Keeping records of test results and treatment plans isn’t just good for your dog’s health—it ensures you’re covered if you need to prove their condition is being managed properly. Vets who specialize in neurology can help make sure you’re meeting those standards without extra stress.

No test is perfect, but getting answers brings relief. Epilepsy sounds scary, but with the right diagnosis, most dogs live happy, normal lives on medication. What matters most is staying observant, asking questions, and trusting your vet’s guidance. Those seizures might feel overwhelming now, but figuring out the cause is the first step toward helping your dog thrive—even with epilepsy in the picture.