Stress-Induced Fits in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Natural Treatments

If your dog suddenly starts trembling, drooling or collapsing after a stressful situation — it might be more than just fear. It could be a stress-based Fits or seizure, also called a stress-induced fit. These episodes can be scary, but with the right understanding and natural remedies, you can protect your furry friend and prevent future attacks.

Let’s decode what’s happening inside your dog’s brain — and how Ayurveda and natural calming medicines can help.

What Are Stress-Based Fits in Dogs?

Stress-based fits occur when a dog’s brain becomes overwhelmed by anxiety or emotional triggers, leading to a temporary neurological imbalance. These aren’t the same as epilepsy or chronic seizure disorders — but they look and feel just as intense. Check here Bella’s Story

Dogs with sensitive nervous systems, past trauma or health weaknesses may experience:

• Sudden collapse
• Muscle twitching
• Stiffness or spasms
• Heavy drooling or jaw locking
• Loss of awareness
• Post-fit confusion or tiredness

These episodes are typically short (under 2 minutes) and happen after a trigger like:

• Vet visits or grooming
• Loud noises (crackers, horns, construction)
• Extreme excitement or fear
• Physical pain (e.g. anal gland cleaning, injections)
• Emotional trauma (abandonment, fights)

Why Do These Fits Happen?

When dogs are overwhelmed, their body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. If their brain or body can’t handle this surge, it may “short-circuit,” triggering a neurological response — a fits.

Stress-based fits usually indicate:

• High anxiety or panic sensitivity
• Weak nerve-muscle coordination
• Inflammation or low brain minerals
• Lack of calming neurotransmitters like GABA

Ayurvedic & Natural Solutions for Stress-Induced Fits

Good news: stress-based seizures are very manageable with a calm routine and the right natural supplements. Here are some of the best Ayurvedic and herbal options recommended by vets and dog parents.

1. Pet Neuron Syrup (Ayurvet)

Category: Ayurvedic nerve tonic
Key Herbs: Brahmi, Ashwagandha and Jatamansi
Benefits:

• Supports calmness
• Strengthens brain signals
• Reduces nervous hyperactivity
• Helps during and after stress

Dosage:

• Small dogs: 5 ml twice daily
• Medium/Large dogs: 10 ml twice daily (or as per vet advice)

When to use:

• After stressful incidents like vet visits, fights, etc.
• Daily for 1–2 weeks in recovery phase

2. Pet Calm Syrup (Vivaldis)

Category: Herbal anti-anxiety syrup
Ingredients: L-Theanine, Valerian root and Chamomile
Benefits:

• Reduces panic during triggers
• Prevents overstimulation
• Safe for long-term calming

Best for:

• Hyperactive or sensitive dogs
• Use before stressful events

3. Zylkene Capsules (Vetoquinol)

Category: Natural stress relief
Ingredient: Alpha-casozepine (from milk protein)
Benefits:

• Non-sedative calming
• Ideal for travel, fireworks, or major anxiety
• Vet-recommended worldwide

Dosage: Based on dog weight. Usually 1 capsule per day mixed in food.

4. SeizureGuard Plus (USA-based) – FDA Warns Recently for this

Category: Brain support supplement
Ingredients: Taurine, Magnesium, B-Vitamins and Milk Thistle
Role:

• Supports brain health
• Prevents oxidative stress
• Used for seizures of various types
  (Note: Imported product – consult your vet first)

When to See a Vet Immediately

If fits last more than 3 minutes, happen more than once a week, or your dog doesn’t recover consciousness quickly — visit the vet urgently. These might not be just stress-based fits and further tests like bloodwork or neurological scans may be needed.

Final Woof: Natural Healing is Real

Stress-based seizures can break your heart — but they’re not a life sentence. With love, awareness and holistic support like Pet Neuron, Zylkene and Pet Calm, your dog can live a happy, seizure-free life.

Stay alert, stay calm — your dog feeds off your vibe.
Calm you = Calm pet. That’s the secret.

— Dr. Gippy
For Fooundit Explore | Helping paws heal with nature

References & Further Reading

AKC (American Kennel Club) – Seizures in Dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/seizures-in-dogs/