Dogs are cherished family members, and watching your companion experience epilepsy or seizures can be deeply concerning for any pet owner.

Many pet owners are exploring natural remedies as potential options to support their dog’s well-being.

Did you know that the only cannabis-derived product approved for medical use by the FDA is for treating seizures in humans? This is because CBD has been shown to help treat some types of seizures. 

Here’s how you can use CBD oil for dog seizures, what science says about it, and its potential therapeutic benefits for your dog. We’ll also discuss dosage and other natural remedies to consider.

What is CBD?

It’s important to understand that CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t produce any “high” effects. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the hemp plant, which is a member of the cannabis family. 

Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD focuses on potential therapeutic properties without altering perception or behavior.

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system present in all mammals. The ECS plays a role in regulating various functions, including sleep, mood, pain, and immune responses. 

In dogs, CBD is primarily used for its potential to reduce inflammation, anxiety, and, importantly, seizure activity. Early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD oil for dog seizures could offer a promising, natural alternative for managing epilepsy.

Seizures in Dogs: Types, Causes, and Symptoms

Seizures in dogs can be caused by several underlying conditions. Understanding the types, causes, and symptoms can help you and your veterinarian create an effective management plan. Here are the key details:

Types of Seizures in Dogs

• Generalized (Grand Mal) Seizures: These affect the entire body and are the most dramatic, often involving loss of consciousness, muscle rigidity, and convulsions.
• Focal (Partial) Seizures: These occur in specific parts of the brain, leading to localized symptoms such as twitching in one limb or facial muscles. They can be further divided into:
  • Simple Focal Seizures: The dog remains conscious.
  • Complex Focal Seizures: The dog’s consciousness is altered.
• Psychomotor Seizures: These may involve unusual behaviors, such as chasing imaginary objects or snapping at the air.

Causes of Seizures in Dogs

• Idiopathic Epilepsy: This is the most common cause, an inherited condition with no identifiable underlying cause.
• Structural Brain Problems: Brain tumors, infections, injuries, or malformations.
• Metabolic Disorders: Liver or kidney disease, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), electrolyte imbalances.
• Toxins: Ingestion of poisons or certain medications.

Symptoms of Seizures in Dogs

• Pre-ictal Phase (Aura): This occurs before the seizure and can include restlessness, hiding, whining, or trembling.
• Ictal Phase (Seizure):
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Falling to the side
  • Involuntary muscle contractions (jerking or paddling of limbs)
  • Stiffness
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Urination or defecation
• Post-ictal Phase: This is the recovery period after the seizure, which can last from minutes to hours. Symptoms can include:
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Restlessness
  • Temporary blindness
  • Increased thirst or hunger

Recognizing these signs early can help you seek timely veterinary care and explore effective treatments like CBD oil for dog seizures.

CBD Oil for Dog Seizures – What Does Research Show?

If you are wondering, “Can CBD help a dog with seizures?” here’s what early studies suggest:

Mogi & Fukuyama Study (2019)

Researchers tested CBD oil on three epileptic dogs for eight weeks. Doses were 0.51, 1.25, and 5 mg/kg/day. The study found mixed results:

• One dog experienced a reduction in seizure frequency and behavioral improvements like less barking.
• Another showed no significant change in seizure frequency but had an increased appetite.
• The third dog, receiving the highest dose, had fewer seizures and reduced aggression.

McGrath et al. Study (2019)

This study investigated the effects of a CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract on dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy. Fourteen dogs were given either a placebo or the hemp extract (at 2 mg/kg every 12 hours) for 24 weeks, alongside their regular anti-seizure medication. Key findings:

• Six dogs experienced a 50% or greater reduction in seizures on the hemp extract, compared to none on the placebo.
• Seizure frequency reduced, with an average decrease from 8 to 5 seizures.

Garcia et al. Study (2022)

Sixteen dogs with difficult-to-treat epilepsy received either a hemp extract (2 mg/kg twice daily) or a placebo for three months, along with existing anti-epileptic medications. Results showed:

• A 33% reduction in seizure frequency in dogs receiving the hemp extract compared to the placebo.
• A correlation between CBD blood levels and seizure reduction.

Rozental et al. Study (2023)

Fifty-one dogs with epilepsy experiencing at least two seizures per month participated in this study. They were given either CBD (initially 5 mg/kg/day, later 9 mg/kg/day) or a placebo for three months, with a one-month break in between. Findings included:

• A significant reduction in both total seizures and seizure days at the higher dose of CBD.
• A 24.1% decrease in seizure days for dogs on CBD, compared to a 5.8% increase for those on the placebo.

Potential Benefits of CBD for Seizures

Based on the aforementioned studies, CBD can potentially help alleviate seizures in dogs. The potential benefits include:

• Reduction in Seizure Frequency: Studies showed fewer seizures in dogs receiving CBD, especially at higher doses.
• Improved Behavior and Appetite: Some dogs exhibited reduced aggression, less barking, and increased appetite.
• Neuroprotective Effects: High doses of CBD may protect against the negative effects of chronic epilepsy.

CBD regulates several physiological and neurological responses. While the exact mechanisms for its anticonvulsant activity aren’t fully understood, research suggests it may work by boosting calming signals in the brain, potentially by increasing the activity of GABA, a chemical messenger that calms down nerve activity. 

It also seems to influence the body’s own cannabinoid system, which helps regulate various functions like mood, pain, and inflammation. High doses of CBD might also offer neuroprotective effects, meaning they could protect brain cells.

The FDA approval of a CBD medication for specific seizure disorders in humans further supports the potential of CBD in managing seizures. Clinical trials for this medication showed that patients taking CBD along with other seizure medications experienced fewer seizures than those taking a placebo.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

Pet owners often have questions about safety when considering new treatments for their dogs.

Preliminary research suggests CBD is generally safe for dogs, but some studies noted mild elevations in liver enzymes, especially ALT. Ask your veterinarian about baseline and follow-up blood tests if your dog already takes other medications.

Veterinarians cannot currently prescribe or administer CBD themselves due to federal regulations, and no cannabis-based products are FDA-approved for animals. Because the market isn’t regulated, always review third-party lab reports to confirm CBD potency and ensure THC levels stay within safe limits for dogs.

CBD Dosage for Managing Dog Seizures

• Start with 2.5 mg/10 lb/day
• Split into 2–3 servings (microdosing)
• Observe for ≥ 2 weeks (up to 4 for full effect)
• Titrate up or down based on results or lethargy
• Log doses and effects to share with your vet

How to Give CBD to Your Dog

Sublingual Administration: This is often the most effective method. Gently lift your pet’s lip and apply the desired amount of CBD oil directly onto their gums, under the tongue. This area is rich in blood vessels, allowing for rapid absorption.

Mixing with Food: If your dog resists direct administration, you can mix the CBD oil with their food. Fatty foods can aid in absorption, but it will take longer (30-45 minutes) for the CBD to enter the bloodstream as it needs to go through the digestive system.

Homemade CBD Edibles: You can make homemade CBD treats with your dog’s favorite snack carrots or peanut butter. However, cooking with CBD can make it trickier to get the exact dose.

CBD vs Other Treatments for Dog Seizures

CBD can’t replace prescription anti-seizure drugs, but it may work alongside them to cut seizure frequency and, in some cases, let your vet lower doses of harsher medications. Although research is limited, CBD appears to be an excellent complementary therapeutic treatment for managing dog seizures alongside conventional therapies.

It’s often used alongside conventional treatments to potentially enhance their effectiveness and reduce the dosage of traditional medications, thus minimizing potential side effects. 

Dos and Don’ts When Your Dog Is Having a Seizure

Here are some important recommendations for managing seizures in dogs:

Dos

• Stay Calm: Your composure helps keep your dog safe and reduces stress during an episode.
• Clear the Area: Remove objects that could harm your dog during a seizure.
• Track Seizure Activity: Record the date, duration, and intensity of each seizure to share with your veterinarian.
• Consult a Veterinarian: Seek professional guidance to develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
• Get an Emergency Vet Appointment: If your dog has a seizure lasting longer than 3-5 minutes, has multiple seizures in a row, or has difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary attention.
• Consider CBD: Explore CBD oil as a natural remedy to complement traditional seizure treatments.

Don’ts

• Do Not Restrain Your Dog: Restraining can cause injury to both you and your pet.
• Avoid Putting Anything in the Mouth: Contrary to myths, dogs cannot swallow their tongues during seizures, and inserting objects can cause harm.
• Don’t Put Your Hands in Your Dog’s Mouth: They may bite you unintentionally during a seizure if you insert your hand in your dog’s mouth.
• Don’t Ignore Frequent Seizures: Regular seizures require immediate veterinary attention.
• Don’t Self-Medicate: Always consult a vet before introducing new treatments or supplements.
• Don’t Move Them Unless Absolutely Necessary: Only move your dog if they are in immediate danger, such as near stairs or a busy road.
• Don’t Give Them Food or Water Immediately After a Seizure: Wait until they are fully conscious and alert before offering food or water.

Final Thoughts

CBD oil shows potential as a natural option for managing dog seizures, though research is still developing. Current studies suggest it may help reduce seizure frequency when used alongside conventional treatments. Always talk to your veterinarian before starting any new treatment.

If you’re considering CBD for your dog’s seizures, explore our Organic CBD Oil for Pets, formulated specifically for pet wellness and backed by our commitment to quality and transparency.

CBD Oil for Dog Seizures FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about using CBD for dog epilepsy:

What should I do if my dog is having a seizure?

Stay calm and follow these steps:

• Move furniture and sharp objects away from your dog.
• Don’t hold or restrain them, and don’t put anything in their mouth.
• Time the seizure with a watch or phone.
• Keep lights low and voices quiet while they recover.
• Call your veterinarian once the episode ends, or seek emergency care if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if more than one occurs in 24 hours.

Is CBD oil safe with my dog’s current medications?

Possibly, but you need your vet’s input. CBD can change how the liver processes many drugs, including common anti-seizure medicines. Ask your veterinarian before starting CBD, and request a blood test after two to four weeks to watch liver enzymes. Stop or adjust the dose if you see side effects like vomiting, sleepiness, or loss of appetite.

What are other natural remedies for dog seizures?

Some owners try omega-3 fish oil, a high-fat ketogenic diet, acupuncture, or calming herbs like valerian or chamomile. Evidence is limited, so talk with your veterinarian before adding any supplement or making big diet changes.

Do veterinarians recommend CBD for dog seizures?

Most vets can’t legally prescribe or dispense CBD, but many will discuss it if you ask. Early studies show promise, yet CBD isn’t FDA-approved for pets, so quality and dosing vary. Bring a certificate of analysis from a trusted brand and work with your vet to set a safe starting dose and monitoring plan.

What types of seizures might CBD help with?

Most research focuses on idiopathic (cause unknown) and drug-resistant epilepsy. Studies show fewer generalized and focal seizures in some dogs when CBD is added to standard medicine. Results vary, and CBD hasn’t been proven for every seizure type.

References

Garcia GA, Kube S, Carrera-Justiz S, Tittle D, Wakshlag JJ. Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2022 Jul 29;9:939966. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2022.939966. PMID: 35967998; PMCID: PMC9372618. 

McGrath S, Bartner LR, Rao S, Packer RA, Gustafson DL. Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2019 Jun 1;254(11):1301-1308. doi: 10.2460/javma.254.11.1301. PMID: 31067185. 

Mogi, C, and Fukuyama, T. Cannabidiol as a potential anti-epileptic dietary supplement in dogs with suspected epilepsy: three case reports. Pet Behav Sci. (2019) 7:11–6. doi: 10.21071/pbs.v0i7.11800

Rozental AJ, Weisbeck BG, Corsato Alvarenga I, Gustafson DL, Kusick BR, Rao S, Bartner LR, McGrath S. The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as adjunct treatment for drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double-blinded crossover study. J Vet Intern Med. 2023 Nov-Dec;37(6):2291-2300. doi: 10.1111/jvim.16912. Epub 2023 Oct 27. PMID: 37889215; PMCID: PMC10658598.