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Gabapentin side effects for dogs: What to expect

Incorrect dosing of gabapentin can cause sleepiness and poor coordination in dogs
By | May 14, 2026 Medically reviewed by Emma Ryan, DVM
A dog: Gabapentin side effects for dogs

Key takeaways

  • Gabapentin is used off-label for pain, anxiety, and seizures in dogs.

  • Sleepiness and poor coordination are common gabapentin side effects.

  • Correct dosing helps reduce the risk of overdose and withdrawal problems.

In this article:

Gabapentin (generic Neurontin) is an oral medication that controls seizures and relieves nerve pain. Although it was developed for humans, veterinarians sometimes prescribe gabapentin off-label for dogs. Common side effects include sleepiness and poor coordination, but serious reactions can occur. Knowing what to watch for can help you know when to call your vet. 

What is gabapentin used for in dogs?

Gabapentin is used for the following indications in dogs:

  • Pain relief: Research suggests gabapentin may help manage chronic, neuropathic, and postoperative pain in dogs, often as part of a broader pain management plan that may include other pain medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Seizure control: Gabapentin may also be used as an add-on medication for dogs with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. “It’s never given as a solo treatment for seizures, and generally is added to combinations of drugs in difficult-to-control epileptics,” Dr. Christianson says.
  • Anxiety or stress relief: Because gabapentin can have a calming effect, vets may also prescribe it for dogs with anxiety, fear, or phobias before stressful events, such as grooming or veterinary visits. Some evidence also suggests gabapentin may reduce the amount of anesthesia needed during surgery and may improve aggression in some dogs.

Gabapentin is a medication that I prescribe daily,” Jessica Christianson, DVM, a veterinarian and ER lead at Thrive Pet Healthcare Specialists in Mansfield, TX. “The most common indication is for pain control, particularly when it is associated with neurologic disease or chronic discomfort, such as osteoarthritis.” 

Common side effects of gabapentin in dogs

The most common side effects of gabapentin in dogs are:

  • Sleepiness
  • Lack of coordination, also called ataxia

Your dog may sleep more than usual, sleep more deeply, or seem unsteady while walking. Lack of coordination can look like stumbling, swaying, falling, or trouble walking in a straight line. 

When your dog first starts gabapentin or begins a new dose, block access to the stairs until you know how they respond. Jumping on or off furniture can also be risky if your dog is wobbly. A crate, pen, or supervised rest area may be safest when you’re not nearby.

Gabapentin sometimes causes gastrointestinal side effects, such as:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Lack of appetite

Tell your veterinarian if your dog has repeated vomiting or diarrhea, refuses water, or seems unable to keep food down. These symptoms can increase the risk of dehydration. 

Some dogs may also drool more while taking gabapentin. Others may seem hungrier than usual, although this effect has been studied more in cats than in dogs. Keep food, trash, and unsafe items out of reach if your dog’s appetite or behavior changes. 

Less common but serious side effects of gabapentin in dogs

Less common but serious side effects of gabapentin in dogs may include allergic reactions and problems from stopping the medication suddenly.

Allergic reactions

Some dogs may be allergic to gabapentin. Tell your veterinarian if your dog has had an allergic reaction to gabapentin or a similar medication, such as pregabalin. Pregabalin is very similar to gabapentin and is also used for seizures and pain in dogs.

Seek emergency veterinary care right away if your dog develops hives, swelling, repeated vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening and should be treated quickly.

Withdrawal seizures

Do not stop giving your dog gabapentin suddenly unless your veterinarian tells you to. Abruptly stopping gabapentin may increase the risk of seizures, especially in dogs taking it for seizure control.

There is limited evidence of withdrawal seizures in dogs without seizure disorders, but withdrawal seizures have been reported in people after sudden gabapentin discontinuation. If your dog does not seem to be tolerating gabapentin well, ask your veterinarian how to safely taper the dose.

How soon do gabapentin side effects start in dogs?

Gabapentin starts working within two hours. Your dog may start to show signs of sleepiness, wobbliness, or other side effects during this time.

How long do gabapentin side effects last in dogs?

“Gabapentin side effects wear off within a few hours after a dose is administered,” says Christian Woelfel, DVM, Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), Neurology, at Garden State Veterinary Services in Woodbridge, NJ.  

Some side effects may also improve as your dog adjusts to the medication. “Dogs acclimate to gabapentin over one to three weeks,” Dr. Christianson says. Lingering side effects may be more common in dogs taking higher doses. 

What are the long-term side effects of gabapentin in dogs?

There are no known long-term side effects of gabapentin in dogs. However, your vet may still monitor your dog’s liver and kidney function through routine blood tests. Gabapentin isn’t harmful to these organs, but your dog may need a different dose if their kidney or liver health changes. 

Factors that increase the risk of gabapentin side effects in dogs

Certain dogs may be more likely to experience gabapentin side effects, depending on factors such as the following:

  • Higher doses: “There are often side effects for dogs when starting gabapentin, but the degree depends on the dose. Pain dosing is lowest, and seizure dosing is the highest,” Dr. Christianson says. Higher doses may increase the risk of sleepiness, especially when a dog first starts treatment or begins a new dose. 
  • Other sedating medications: Other medications can also increase the risk of side effects. This is especially true for medications that can cause sedation, such as antihistamines, opioids, and anti-anxiety medications like trazodone. Combining these medications with gabapentin may make your dog extra sleepy or unsteady. 
  • Older age: Side effects may also be more noticeable in older dogs. “It’s also more common to see side effects in senior dogs due to generalized muscle weakness associated with aging,” Dr. Christianson says. This can make loss of coordination more concerning. 
  • Kidney or liver disease: Dr. Woelfel adds, “I tend to be more cautious in prescribing gabapentin with senior pets or those with underlying kidney disease, as the drug is cleared through the kidneys.” Dogs with kidney or liver disease may process or clear medications differently, which can make side effects last longer or increase the risk of overdose. 

Signs of gabapentin overdose in dogs

“An overdose of gabapentin can cause a slowed heart rate, also called bradycardia, shallow breathing, hypothermia, sustained dilated pupils, tremors, and even coma in extreme cases,” Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, says. An overdose may also cause more severe sleepiness, wobbliness, vomiting, or diarrhea than usual. 

Any dog can accidentally have a gabapentin overdose. “Overdoses can occur with accidental ingestion if dogs chew on a bottle of gabapentin or eat pills left out,” Dr. Vasudevan says. 

Giving the wrong dose, miscalculating the dosage, or doubling up after a missed dose can also increase the risk of overdose symptoms. Because gabapentin dosage for dogs depends on factors such as weight, condition, and other health considerations, dog owners should follow their veterinarian’s instructions and avoid changing the dose on their own. Dogs with kidney or liver disease may also need closer monitoring or an adjusted dose. 

Safety measures while giving your dog gabapentin

To help reduce the risk of gabapentin side effects or overdose:

  • Follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions exactly.
  • Tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements your dog takes.
  • Confirm the dose and schedule, since gabapentin dosing may vary based on the condition being treated.
  • Protect your dog from stairs, furniture, or other fall risks until you know how gabapentin affects them.
  • Do not stop gabapentin suddenly unless your veterinarian tells you to.
  • Do not double up after a missed dose.
  • Tell your veterinarian about any new or worsening side effects.
  • Ask whether your dog needs routine monitoring of the kidneys or liver, especially with long-term use.
  • Never give your dog liquid gabapentin made for humans unless your veterinarian confirms it is safe.
  • Seek emergency veterinary care if you suspect an overdose or allergic reaction.
  • Tell your veterinarian right away if your dog becomes pregnant.

Bottom line: Is gabapentin safe for dogs?

“Overall, gabapentin is very safe for dogs when used as directed,” Dr. Woelfel says. Typical side effects include several hours of sleepiness and poor coordination. Some dogs acclimate to gabapentin and stop experiencing side effects after several weeks. 

Your veterinarian may be able to ease side effects by adjusting the dose. In rare cases, dogs can experience overdose, dehydration, allergic reactions, and withdrawal seizures. Seek veterinary care right away if your dog has severe symptoms or signs of an allergic reaction or overdose. 

Only a veterinarian can determine whether gabapentin is safe for your dog based on your dog’s medical history, current medications, and the reason for taking it. Your vet can help you weigh the benefits and risks and recommend alternatives if needed. 

Expert takeaway 

“Because gabapentin commonly makes dogs drowsy, I tend to prescribe a lower starting dose,” says Emma Ryan, DVM, member of the SingleCare Medical Board. “Once we know how the dog reacts, we can increase the dose to ensure the best treatment while minimizing side effects.”

Frequently asked questions

Can gabapentin make my dog sleepy?

Yes, gabapentin can make dogs sleepy. Mild sleepiness is one of the most common side effects, but extreme lethargy or trouble walking should be reported to your veterinarian. 

Is gabapentin dangerous for dogs?

Gabapentin is generally safe for dogs when prescribed by a veterinarian and given as directed. However, it may not be safe for dogs who are pregnant, allergic to gabapentin, or taking certain medications. 

What should you do if you miss a dose of gabapentin?

If your dog misses a dose of gabapentin, wait until the next scheduled dose and give it as usual. Do not double the dose or try to make up for the missed dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects or overdose. 

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