Diazepam for Dogs: A Benzodiazepine to Treat Seizures and Anxiety

Diazepam (Valium) is a medication that’s prescribed for dogs and people. Veterinarians often use it for the treatment of seizures and with other medications for anesthesia. In some cases, they may also prescribe diazepam to be given at home. If that’s the case, you can learn more about diazepam here.

Diazepam for dogs at a glance

What is diazepam for dogs, and how does it work?

Diazepam, also known by the brand name Valium, is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Diazepam is primarily used to treat anxiety in people. In dogs, veterinarians may use it for anxiety, seizures, and muscle tremors. They may also use it with anesthesia before a procedure.

Diazepam works on the brain and nervous system. It boosts the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA slows the transmission of nerve signals. By increasing GABA activity, diazepam calms the nervous system.

What is diazepam used for in dogs?

Diazepam has a number of uses in dogs that are all related to the medication’s calming effects on the brain. 

Seizures

Diazepam is often used for short-term treatment of seizures and muscle tremors in dogs. There are many underlying causes of seizures and muscle tremors in dogs. Treatment often requires identifying and addressing the cause, which can take time. 

But it’s dangerous to let seizures continue unchecked until an effective treatment is found. In these cases, diazepam can be given via intravenous (IV) injection or a syringe in the rectum or nose to quickly stop seizures and tremors. However, diazepam is not typically used for long-term seizure or tremor control in dogs. 

Sedation

Veterinarians also use diazepam as a sedative or anesthetic. If your dog is having a procedure, such as X-rays, your veterinarian may give a diazepam injection. Diazepam, when combined with other medications, can also be used to put a dog under anesthesia. 

Anxiety

Diazepam’s brain-calming effects can also treat anxiety in dogs. However, it’s rarely the first choice because there are other, more effective options for treating canine anxiety. But for some dogs, diazepam may be a good option. 

What is the dosage of diazepam for dogs, and how is it given?

Your veterinarian will determine the best dose of diazepam for your dog. Your dog’s dose will be based on their body weight and what you’re treating. Some issues respond to very low doses of diazepam, while others require higher doses. Your veterinarian will use the lowest possible dose to reduce the risk of side effects for your dog.  

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Diazepam can be given to dogs in a variety of forms. If your veterinarian wants you to use diazepam at home, they may give you oral diazepam tablets. This is the most common form of diazepam used for dogs.

Dogs with a history of prolonged or recurrent seizures may be prescribed rectal diazepam for emergency use. In the veterinary hospital, diazepam is usually given by injection. 

Regardless of the dose and formulation, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely when giving diazepam.

Diazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance in the U.S. This means there may be additional restrictions if your dog is prescribed this medication.

What should you do if your dog misses a dose of diazepam?

If you miss a dose of diazepam, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then, wait the prescribed amount of time before giving your dog their next dose of diazepam. 

Do not give two doses of diazepam at once. This will significantly increase your dog’s risk of side effects.

If you have questions about a missed dose, contact a veterinarian. 

What are the common side effects of diazepam in dogs?

The most common side effects of diazepam in dogs include: 

• Restlessness

• Sedation

• Increased appetite

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

In some cases, dogs may become aggressive while taking diazepam. This may be caused by a loss of inhibition. Just like some people become aggressive under the influence of alcohol, dogs may become aggressive with diazepam. 

Some dogs may also experience a condition known as “paradoxical excitement” while taking diazepam. Instead of calming down, these dogs become more agitated. They may show: 

• Excitement

• Agitation

• Vocalization (barking, whining)

Side effects of diazepam generally wear off as the medication leaves the body. If you notice any side effects associated with diazepam, contact your veterinarian. 

What are the most serious risks of diazepam for dogs?

Serious side effects of diazepam may include:

• Loss of consciousness

• Coma

• Death

Serious side effects are more likely in dogs with liver disease. Diazepam is processed through the liver, and dogs with liver disease may not be able to clear diazepam from their body. 

If your dog develops serious side effects, contact a veterinarian or a veterinary emergency hospital immediately. 

Carefully give diazepam to dogs at the exact dosage prescribed by your veterinarian, and only give it as prescribed by a veterinarian. An overdose of diazepam can be serious for dogs.

Does diazepam interact with any other dog medications?

Diazepam interacts with a number of other medications. Make sure your veterinarian knows about any other medications your dog takes. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter medication, and supplements. 

Medications that may interact with diazepam include: 

• Antacids

• Digoxin (a heart medication)

• Other benzodiazepines (alprazolam, midazolam) 

• Other sedatives 

• Some antibiotics

• Some antifungals

• Some antidepressants

Talk to your veterinarian before combining any medication with diazepam. 

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Written by:

Catherine Barnette, DVM

Catherine Barnette, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian with 14 years of experience providing preventive care, medical workups, and surgical services in a number of general veterinary practices. She also served on her county's board of health for several years and taught biology laboratories for college students.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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