Finding the Best CBD Oil for Dogs With Seizures
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Time to read 10 min
Watching your dog experience a seizure can be frightening and leave you feeling helpless. It prompts many dog owners to search for ways to provide comfort, relief, and better long-term care, one of which is CBD oil .
CBD oil for dogs with seizures can complement your vet’s treatment plan of antiepileptic drugs, whether for a single episode or a chronic condition like canine epilepsy. It may help your dog live more comfortably, but with so many options available, it’s essential to choose a safe, high-quality CBD oil for dogs.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand what seizures in dogs are, how to choose pet-safe CBD oil, and how to make informed decisions that give an extra layer of natural support to your pup’s health.
Table of Content
What Is a Seizure in Dogs? Types of seizures in dogs Limitations of traditional anti-seizure medications How Can CBD Oil Help Dogs with Seizures? What to Look for in High-Quality CBD Oil for Dogs Top 5 CBD Oils for Dogs with Seizures Full-Spectrum (1,000 mg) Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil Innovet Full Spectrum CBD Oil HolistaPet CBD Oil for Dogs Medterra Pets CBD Drops How to Safely Use CBD Oil for Dogs with Seizures Conclusion: Supporting Your Dog Through Seizures Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
What Is a Seizure in Dogs?
Canine seizures happen when there’s a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These unusual episodes manifest differently in each dog, ranging from small facial twitches or drooling to more severe symptoms, such as collapsing, losing consciousness, or experiencing full-body convulsions.
Not all unusual movements or collapses are seizures. Some health conditions, such as fainting due to heart issues , can mimic seizure-like symptoms.
If your dog has these symptoms, a veterinary neurologist can identify the cause and recommend the best treatment. Possible seizure causes include:
Epileptic seizures
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where dogs experience recurrent seizures. When no underlying condition can be identified, it's referred to as idiopathic epilepsy . It typically involves generalized seizures and may begin from 6 months of age.
Specific dog breeds are more prone to seizures than others due to genetic mutations passed down through breeding. The list includes Beagles, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers.
When seizures continue to occur despite appropriate treatment , they may be classified as refractory epileptic seizures (also known as intractable idiopathic epilepsy ). In these cases, medication may reduce seizure frequency or severity to some extent, but not enough to maintain a good quality of life for your dog. This is a type of condition where dogs continue to experience seizures despite taking anti-seizure drugs (e.g., high serum phenobarbital concentrations).
Trauma
Dog seizures can result from past trauma, especially brain or nervous system injuries. They may appear weeks or months later and have lasting effects, requiring a full medical history review by a veterinary specialist for proper treatment.
Toxins
Certain chemicals can trigger seizures in dogs. Common dog toxins may include human medications, insecticides, household cleaning agents, and even human foods like chocolate or xylitol. Ingestion or exposure to these substances can lead to sudden and severe seizures that require immediate veterinary care.
Brain tumors
Brain tumors are a more common cause of seizures in senior dogs, though they can occur at any age. These growths, whether cancerous or benign, can press on or damage parts of the brain that control movement, behavior, or nerve signals, leading to seizures.
Metabolic disorders
Conditions like liver disease, kidney failure, or low blood sugar can disrupt physiological processes and normal brain activity, which can lead to seizures. Identifying and managing the underlying issue helps prevent future seizure episodes.
Types of seizures in dogs
Here are the most common types of seizures and symptoms that pet owners should watch out for:
Generalized seizures
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain and the entire body. The dog will lose consciousness and fall over, experience muscle stiffness, jerking or paddling movements, drooling, and involuntary urination or defecation.
Focal seizures
Focal seizures are partial ones that come from a specific brain area and may affect only specific areas or body parts. Watch out for facial twitching, limb tremors, or unusual repetitive behaviors, including head shaking and chewing motions. The dog may appear distressed, but will remain conscious and of its surroundings.
Psychomotor seizures
Psychomotor seizures cause sudden, unusual behaviors like barking at nothing, tail chasing, confusion, or aggression. These actions are involuntary, triggered by abnormal brain activity.
Limitations of traditional anti-seizure medications
Traditional anti-seizure meds are essential, but some seizures, like in refractory epilepsy, may persist and need ongoing adjustments. With vet guidance, many owners explore supportive options to enhance their dog’s quality of life.
This is where the use of CBD oil for dogs with seizures comes in.
How Can CBD Oil Help Dogs with Seizures?
Using CBD oil for dogs with seizures may help support the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a natural regulatory system in your dog’s body that influences mood, sleep, immune response, and brain function. The ECS includes CB1 and CB2 receptors that help regulate how nerves communicate. CBD is believed to interact with these receptors and other pathways to help stabilize nerve activity. While research is still ongoing, early studies suggest that CBD oil for dogs with seizures may reduce seizure frequency or severity in some dogs with epilepsy, though it should be used under veterinary supervision.
Research done by Colorado State University suggests that CBD may be used alongside conventional antiepileptic treatment to help with canine idiopathic epilepsy. In their clinical trial, their sample of 12 dogs that were given CBD showed a reduction in seizure frequency in 89% compared to a placebo group, marking a great potential for CBD's role in seizure management.
CBD use also shows encouraging results in human patients, especially among individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy. Other randomized controlled trials are also published to better understand how CBD works in dogs and help establish safe, effective dosing guidelines.
While the use of CBD oil for dogs with seizures seems promising, prescribed anti-seizure medications should not be replaced. Not all types of seizures can be treated with CBD oil usage (like toxin exposure), so always consult your veterinarian to help with creating a safe and effective treatment plan for your dog.
What to Look for in High-Quality CBD Oil for Dogs
Organic pesticide-free source
High-quality CBD oil comes from gentle, pesticide-free ingredients, including naturally occurring cannabis plant extracts. Check labels and avoid products with synthetic chemicals, artificial additives, or fillers since these could harm your pet or trigger allergic reactions.THC content below 0.3% (or THC-free for safety)
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound in the hemp plant that gives psychoactive effects, such as feeling “high.” The THC component offers calming effects, but if administered in substantial amounts, it can cause disorientation, lethargy, and even toxicity. Pet-safe CBD products should contain little to no THC.Full- or broad-spectrum options
Also, check the CBD profile. When selecting a CBD oil for dogs with seizures, you can choose between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD includes a range of cannabinoids plus trace amounts of THC (under 0.3%), while broad-spectrum CBD contains similar benefits but is completely THC-free , making it a safer option for sensitive pets.Third-party lab testing and certificate of analysis (COA)
Opt for a third-party lab-tested CBD oil to be safe. This process of independent testing confirms that the product is free from harmful contaminants and that the amount of THC is within safe limits. Always look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify the product’s quality, purity, and transparency.Pet-specific formulations and accurate dosing guidance
Not all CBD oils are made for pets, so it's essential to choose products designed specifically for animals. Administering CBD oil requires accurate dosing, especially for seizures, so choose products with clear guidance and consult your vet before starting your CBD regimen.
Top 5 CBD Oils for Dogs with Seizures
Now that we know how CBD works for dogs with seizures and you have been given the go-ahead by your vet to use CBD oil, let’s look at our most recommended products.
Full-Spectrum (1,000 mg) Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil
Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil is a high-potency, full-spectrum hemp extract made specifically for dogs. Each bottle contains cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, vitamins, and essential fatty acids to support the overall wellness of dogs with seizures.
Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil is organic, non-GMO, vegan , and suitable for all breeds , with less than 0.3% THC , so it’s therapeutic rather than psychoactive, and safe for daily use. The included dropper allows easy and accurate dosing, and every batch is third-party tested for purity and potency.
Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil
Honest Paws CBD Oil is a full-spectrum, organic hemp extract crafted with human-grade ingredients and designed specifically for calming and seizure support. The product is also third-party tested, with clear lab results, so you're assured of its safety and transparency.
This CBD oil is more expensive than some other CBD oils—something to consider if you're on a budget.
Innovet Full Spectrum CBD Oil
From one of the most trusted names in broad-spectrum, Innovet is a non-nutritional botanical extract made from mature hemp stalks and seeds, and independently tested in third-party laboratories. It’s 100% non-GMO, with no additives, preservatives, or pesticide residues, and delivers a full entourage effect for enhanced support for dogs with seizures.
HolistaPet CBD Oil for Dogs
HolistaPet CBD Oil is an all-natural, full-spectrum blend with no additives, designed to support dogs dealing with epilepsy, arthritis, and overall wellness.
Medterra Pets CBD Drops
Medterra Pets CBD Drops is a broad-spectrum, THC-free formula designed with veterinary input, making it a safe, trusted, and affordable option for pet parents. It delivers the benefits of multiple hemp compounds without any psychoactive effects, supporting both dogs with health conditions and healthy dogs alike. Always consult your vet to determine how much CBD oil is appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.
How to Safely Use CBD Oil for Dogs with Seizures
Before starting any CBD oil regimen for dogs with seizures, always consult your veterinarian , especially if your pet is already on anti-seizure medication. Your vet can develop a treatment plan based on what CBD is appropriate and what the safest starting point is.
It’s better to start with a low dose and gradually increase it, depending on your vet’s advice based on your dog’s response. Keeping a seizure journal can help you track progress, record frequency, duration, and symptoms, and share valuable insights with your vet.
Alays be consistent . Make sure to administer the CBD oil as recommended by your vet to help maintain a steady plasma CBD concentration in your dog’s system.
Conclusion: Supporting Your Dog Through Seizures
Seizures can be alarming, but understanding them is the first step in managing your dog’s health. Since causes and symptoms vary, each case of canine epilepsy is unique.
CBD treatment is emerging as a supportive option in veterinary medicine. For dogs with seizures, always choose a high-quality, pet-safe, third-party tested CBD oil. Consult your vet before starting, as they can identify the cause, guide treatment, and help create a safe, effective plan. With proper care, dogs with canine epilepsy can still live healthy, happy lives.
Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench
With nearly two decades of experience, Cambridge veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Dench is dedicated to enhancing animal health through holistic practices. A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, she focuses on preventive care over traditional methods, particularly for long-term wellness solutions in pets suffering from anxiety and chronic conditions. As Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins, she champions holistic strategies and education to revolutionize pet care practices.
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How soon can I expect results?
The response time to CBD Happy-Furever™ can indeed differ from one dog to another, as it is a natural supplement that dogs may need time to adapt to. Many dog parents have observed noticeable positive changes in their pets' behavior and well-being within just a few days of starting the supplement. Common early signs of the supplement taking effect include better sleep, a calmer demeanor, and an increased appetite—all indicators of a content and healthy dog.
As the weeks go by, further enhancements in your dog's health may become evident. You may notice a shinier coat, a reduction in bodily pains, and an increase in energy, evident from bursts of playful excitement like the "zoomies" during fetch.
It's crucial to acknowledge that, like humans, some dogs may require a longer period to fully benefit from natural supplements like CBD oil. Patience is key, and during this time, it's also important to continue reinforcing good behavior.
When CBD helps to bring your dog to a more tranquil state, it's an opportune moment to introduce new habits and work on phasing out any undesirable behaviors. Remember, while CBD can support your dog's well-being, it is not a substitute for consistent training and conditioning.
Keep an eye out for signs of improvement; sometimes, they may not be immediately obvious. Documenting your dog's journey with videos and photos can help you recognize progress that you might otherwise overlook.
Furthermore, improvements might be taking place internally, such as enhanced immune function or reduced inflammation, which aren't always visible. The absence of health issues can often be a silent testament to the efficacy of the supplement, reflecting your dog's overall health and vitality. So, while some benefits of CBD are seen, others are felt—a healthy dog is a happy dog, inside and out.
Will these products make my pet 'high'?
Absolutely not! It's not possible for dogs to get 'high' off our CBD as they contain less than 0.3% THC, which won't cause any intoxicating effects. However, your pup might seem a lot more relaxed, and might be sleeping more - which is a healthy sign! Keep in mind that young puppies and senior dogs should be sleeping for up to 18-20 hours of their day, while adult dogs sleep approximately 16 hours.
The lack of quality sleep can affect their health and anxiety in many ways.
CBD can make older pooches act ‘puppy-like’ and nervous young pups feel calm. The ingredients that makeup hemp contribute to a balanced mood, resulting in a sense of relaxation for your pet.