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Dog on phenobarbital for seizures: lethargic, thirsty, wobbly. Normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 7 years and 10 months old

Hi my dog has recently been diagnosed with epilepsy and has been prescribed phenobarbital. He takes 2 pills daily each is 12.5 ml. Since being on them his fits have stopped completely which is good . But he has changed he is lethargic very thirsty and slightly wobbley on standing up. My vet said this is normal and not to worry. Could it be possible that the dose he is on is too high?. Hes only a small dog. Any advice would be much appreciated Thankyou

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is very normal in the first 2 weeks of starting phenobarbital. The dogs experience lethargy and the hind legs are wobbly and they appear to walk drunk. This will resolve in 2-4 weeks. The dogs do remain thirsty and have increased hunger on the medication. I wish Ceasar the best!

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