• Onion, garlic, and other toxic foods may cause seizures in some dogs.onion image by Marek Kosmal from Fotolia.com
  
  According to Pawprints & Purrs, Inc., seizures are among the most common neurological problems in dogs. Also called fits or convulsions, they may feature a loss of consciousness, involuntary muscle contractions, salivation, urination or defection, hallucinations or behavioral changes. Seizures may occur in any breed and at any age, but some factors put a dog at greater risk.
  
  

Genetics

• Some dog breeds have a higher risk of seizures than others. These include German shepherds, cocker spaniels, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, dachsunds and beagles. Simply belonging to one of these breeds does not mean a dog will get seizures, but a family history of epilepsy or other seizure-inducing diseases does heighten the risk.
  
  

Blood Sugar

• Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, may cause dogs to suffer seizures or unconsciousness. This is most likely to occur in diabetic animals which have been given too much insulin. Very high levels of sugar in the blood have also known to cause seizures, and are most common in dogs with untreated diabetes. Normalizing the blood sugar is the best way to treat and prevent a seizure.
  
  

Hypocalcemia

• Dogs with very low levels of calcium may suffer from seizures. Hypocalcemic seizures are a risk in puppies with serious worm infestations or lactating mothers which aren't getting enough calcium in their diet. If a dog is in either of these situations, owners should seek treatment immediately, and keep close watch to prevent a seizure.
  
  

Liver and Kidney Disease

• Problems in the liver and kidneys may cause toxins to build up in a dog's blood, resulting in neurological problems and seizures. Any dog with a known history of problems with the kidneys or liver is at risk, but proper treatment of these diseases can reduce that risk.
  
  

Head Trauma

• Injuries to the head can cause blood clots to form in the brain, or create swelling that presses on the brain. This may disrupt neural function, resulting in a seizure. Prompt treatment of head trauma decreases the chance of a seizure, and ensures correct healing in the long term.
  
  

Infections

• Rabies, distemper and bacterial encephalitis can all lead to seizures, due to their effects on the brain. Unfortunately, these diseases are serious, and are often fatal.
  
  

Poisoning

• Ingestion of toxic substances, including oil-based paint, roofing materials, tar paper, and heavy metals, may cause seizures. Some foods, like chocolate and onions, can cause seizures in sensitive animals. Pets which have eaten any toxic substance should see a vet immediately to reduce the chance of seizures and other serious side effects.