What Is Levetiracetam For Dogs and What Is It Used For?

A seizure is one of the most frightening things a dog owner can witness.

If your dog has recently been diagnosed with epilepsy or another seizure disorder, chances are your vet has mentioned levetiracetam, sold under the brand name Keppra, as part of the treatment plan.

This guide covers how levetiracetam for dogs works, the appropriate dose, which side effects to watch for, and how to support your dog while they're on it.

TL;DR

Levetiracetam is an anti-seizure medication that calms overactive electrical activity in the brain, reducing how often seizures happen and how severe they are.

It's FDA-approved for people but used off-label in veterinary medicine, where it's become one of the most commonly prescribed seizure medications for dogs because of how well most dogs tolerate it.

It won't cure epilepsy and it isn't meant to stop a seizure that's already in progress in its standard tablet form, though vets sometimes use rectal or injectable levetiracetam for that purpose.

Most dogs need it multiple times a day, every day, for the rest of their lives, or until their vet determines otherwise.

What Is Levetiracetam?

Levetiracetam (commonly known by the brand name Keppra) is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used in human medicine to treat epilepsy, but it is also widely and effectively prescribed by veterinarians for dogs.

Levetiracetam belongs to a newer class of anti-epileptic drugs.

Researchers aren't entirely sure how it works, but the leading theory is that it binds to a protein involved in the release of brain chemicals, which dampens the runaway electrical signaling that triggers seizures.

Unlike older seizure medications, it isn't processed by the liver, which makes it appealing for senior dogs or dogs with liver concerns.

It's also fast-acting: oral doses are absorbed within 1-2 hours, though it typically takes days to weeks of consistent dosing before you see the full effect on seizure frequency.

What Does Levetiracetam Treat in Dogs?

Levetiracetam is most often prescribed for idiopathic epilepsy, the most common seizure disorder in dogs, where no underlying cause is identified.

It's used both as a standalone treatment and as an add-on to other seizure medications like phenobarbital or potassium bromide when those alone aren't controlling seizures well enough.

A retrospective study of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy found that 69% had at least a 50% reduction in seizure frequency on levetiracetam, and 15% became completely seizure-free.

Vets also use it for cluster seizures, where a dog has multiple seizures in a short window, often as a "pulse" treatment given only around the cluster rather than continuously.

Levetiracetam Dosage for Dogs By Weight Chart

Dosage depends on your dog's weight, the formulation, and whether they're on other seizure medications. Never adjust the dose yourself, even if your dog seems to be doing well.

In most cases, veterinarians prescribe levetiracetam at 20 mg per kg of body weight, given every 8 hours (3 times daily).

The extended-release version cuts that down to twice daily, but the tablets can't be split, so a compounding pharmacy may be needed to get an accurate dose for smaller dogs.

However, dosage may vary depending on your dog’s condition, other medications, kidney function, and whether an extended-release formula is used.

Here is a general reference chart using the standard 20 mg/kg dose every 8 hours:

Tablet sizes commonly available: 250 mg, 500 mg, and 1000 mg. Some doses require splitting tablets or compounding.

Important Dosing Considerations

The levetiracetam dosage for dogs by weight chart shown above is based on the widely accepted veterinary guideline of 20 mg per kg of body weight given every 8 hours.

This guideline is supported by veterinary research, which confirms that 20 mg per kilogram every 8 hours maintains therapeutic levels in dogs.

Further clinical investigation published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science (2018) demonstrated positive seizure control outcomes in dogs treated with levetiracetam at similar weight‑based doses.

Additionally, the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine confirms that dogs with refractory idiopathic epilepsy treated with about 20 mg/kg three times daily experienced a significant reduction in seizures.

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember and then time the next dose from there rather than doubling up. Never stop levetiracetam abruptly, since sudden discontinuation can trigger withdrawal seizures.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Some dogs get extended-release levetiracetam, usually given every 12 hours instead of every 8. These tablets should not be split or crushed and are often used for medium to large dogs. Your vet will decide which type is best.

Side Effects That Levetiracetam Can Cause

Levetiracetam has a reputation among vets as one of the better-tolerated seizure medications. A clinical study found no dogs experienced life-threatening side effects, though mild side effects showed up in 46 percent of dogs, most commonly sedation and ataxia (wobbliness).

Before starting levetiracetam, your vet will likely want to confirm your dog's kidney function is normal, since the drug is cleared through the kidneys rather than the liver.

Can Levetiracetam Be Combined With Other Medications?

Yes. Levetiracetam is often prescribed alongside other anti-seizure medications and generally has fewer drug interactions than older anticonvulsants, making it a popular choice for combination therapy.

It's commonly used with phenobarbital or potassium bromide when seizures aren't adequately controlled by a single medication. In some cases, adding levetiracetam allows the dose of these drugs to be reduced, which may help limit their long-term side effects, particularly the liver-related risks associated with phenobarbital.

One important consideration is that phenobarbital can cause dogs to clear levetiracetam from their system more quickly, making it less effective over time. If this happens, your veterinarian may adjust the dose or dosing schedule to maintain seizure control.

Some dogs also develop tolerance to levetiracetam after months or years of treatment, meaning a previously effective dose becomes less successful at preventing seizures.

This is a recognized pattern with the medication and doesn't mean the treatment has failed. Your veterinarian can recommend changes if needed.

Although there are no known major interactions between levetiracetam and NSAIDs such as Deramaxx or Rimadyl, you should always tell your veterinarian about every medication and supplement your dog is taking.

⚠️ Never start, stop, or combine prescription medications without veterinary guidance, as your dog's overall health, kidney function, and treatment plan all influence the safest approach.

What Causes Seizures in Dogs?

The most common reason dogs have recurring seizures is idiopathic epilepsy. This is an inherited condition, and in these cases, no specific cause can be identified.

Idiopathic epilepsy usually starts in young or middle-aged dogs. Dogs with this condition often need to take anti-seizure medicine for life.

But not all seizures are due to epilepsy. Sometimes, seizures are a sign of another health issue, especially in puppies or older dogs. Common causes include:

• kidney failure
• liver disease
• brain tumors
• head trauma
• Exposure to toxins (like some medications, foods, or household chemicals)

For dogs with epilepsy, some situations can make seizures more likely, even if they are on medication. Stress, anxiety, excitement, changes in routine, and not getting enough sleep are some of the most common triggers.

While it’s not always possible to prevent seizures, identifying and avoiding your dog’s individual triggers may help reduce how often they occur.

💡 Keeping a diary of your dog’s seizures can help you and your vet notice patterns over time.

Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Have Seizures?

Any dog can get epilepsy, but some breeds are more likely to have it. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Vizslas, Keeshonds, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Belgian Tervurens are some of the breeds most often affected.

If your dog is one of these breeds, it’s a good idea to learn the early signs of seizures. This way, you can get veterinary help quickly if you notice any symptoms.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure?

It can be scary to see your dog have a seizure, but try to stay calm. This is one of the best ways you can help.

Gently move your dog away from stairs, furniture, or anything they might bump into and get hurt. Do not try to hold them down or put anything in their mouth.

Make the area quieter and dimmer by turning off bright lights and lowering loud sounds. Keep other pets away until the seizure is over.

If possible, keep track of how long the seizure lasts. Most seizures are under two minutes. If it goes on for more than five minutes or your dog has several seizures in a row, get emergency help right away.

If your dog has epilepsy, learning more about it can help you spot what triggers seizures, notice changes in how often they happen, and know what to do during an episode.

Stay in touch with your vet, give your dog’s medicine just as directed, and keep a diary of seizures. Write down when they happen, how long they last, and anything that might have triggered them.

This can help your vet make changes to your dog’s treatment if needed.

How Can CBD Oil Help Dogs on Levetiracetam?

Some dog owners look to CBD oil as a complementary way to support their dog's comfort while managing a seizure disorder.

CBD isn't a replacement for prescribed anti-seizure medication, but it's sometimes used alongside it to support general calm and wellbeing.

Innovet’s PurCBD+ oil has just two ingredients; hemp extract and hemp seed oil, with no additives or preservatives.

For dogs with heart conditions who are already on several medications, keeping things simple can be important.

While medications are the cornerstone of epilepsy treatment, some natural supplements may help support your dog's overall comfort.

These products should never replace veterinary care, but they can complement your dog's treatment plan when used under your veterinarian's guidance.

Here are a few options to consider:

• CBD Oil for Dogs: Heart disease can sometimes leave dogs feeling anxious, restless, or less comfortable, especially as symptoms progress.
• Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil with Hemp Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon oil supports cardiovascular health by helping maintain a healthy inflammatory response.

CBD may help promote calmness, support a normal inflammatory response, and improve overall quality of life.

Innovet's CBD Oil for Dogs is also formulated specifically for pets and can be used alongside a veterinarian-approved treatment plan.

It promotes healthy skin, joints, and cognitive function, making it a valuable daily supplement for aging dogs with heart disease.

If your dog doesn't like oils, Innovet also offers CBD soft chews, treats, capsules, and topical products, making it easy to choose a format that fits your dog's preferences and daily routine.

⚠️ Always consult your veterinarian before adding CBD or any supplement to your dog's routine, especially if they have heart disease or are taking prescription medications.

Shop CBD oil for dogs. →

If you have questions about how CBD might work with your dog’s current heart treatment, you can reach our team at (310) 817-5731.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is levetiracetam safe for long-term use in dogs?

Generally, yes. It's one of the better-tolerated seizure medications available for dogs, and many dogs stay on it for life without major issues. Regular check-ins with your vet help catch tolerance or dosing changes early.

2. How long does it take for levetiracetam to work?

Oral doses reach effective levels in the bloodstream within one to two hours, but it can take days to weeks of consistent dosing to see the full impact on seizure frequency.

3. Can I give my dog human levetiracetam?

Only under a vet's direction. Human tablets come in fixed strengths that may not match your dog's needed dose, and a vet may recommend a compounding pharmacy instead for an accurate amount.

4. What happens if my dog misses a dose?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, then resume the regular schedule from that point. Don't double up to make up for a missed dose, and don't stop the medication suddenly without your vet's guidance.

5. Will my dog need levetiracetam forever?

Most dogs with idiopathic epilepsy stay on seizure medication for life. Some vets may attempt a gradual taper if a dog has been seizure-free for a long stretch, but this is always done under close veterinary supervision.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Levetiracetam is a prescription medication and should only be given to your dog under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. Never start, stop, or adjust your dog's dosage without consulting your vet.

Ivana Vukasinovic grew up in Serbia and attended the University of Belgrade where she received a degree in Veterinary medicine in 2012 and later completed surgical residency working mostly with livestock. Her first year of practice was split between busy small animal practice and emergency clinic, and after two more years of treating many different species of animals, she opened her own veterinary pharmacy where an interest in canine and feline nutrition emerged with an accent on fighting animal obesity. In her free time, she acts as a foster parent for stray animals before their adoption, likes to read SF books and making salted caramel cookies.

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