Dogs are cherished members of our families. When our dogs experience seizures, the episodes can be stressful and frightening. For this reason, pet owners are increasingly interested in CBD for seizure control in dogs.
Remember: epilepsy is a serious medical condition. Consult your veterinarian to manage seizures in pets; do not use CBD to replace prescription seizure medication, but consider it as an option to discuss with your veterinarian.
Research on CBD for Dog Seizures
One CBD for dog seizures study at Colorado State University found that epileptic dogs who took CBD alongside their usual seizure medication had fewer episodes (7).
A study of 51 dogs with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy found that CBD at a 9 mg/kg/day dosage significantly reduced seizure frequency. Compared to a placebo, dogs on CBD experienced a 24.1% reduction in seizure days. The study also involved a placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover design, and safety assessments. Results suggest CBD as a promising adjunct treatment for managing seizures in dogs.
For more details, you can view the full study here.
CBD shows potential as an adjunct treatment for dogs with seizures, with studies indicating it may reduce seizure frequency and severity. While results are promising, further research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and optimal dosage.
Does Using CBD Oil for Dog Seizures Help?
Many dog owners have found CBD oil to be a game-changer in managing their pets' seizures, with some reporting a noticeable reduction in both the frequency and intensity of seizure episodes. While CBD oil isn't a guaranteed solution for every dog, it offers a promising, natural alternative for those seeking to alleviate their dog's discomfort.
For dogs suffering from seizures, CBD may not only provide relief but also comes with a low risk of serious side effects. Most dogs tolerate CBD oil well, and any adverse effects are typically mild—such as loose stool or minor digestive upset—especially when given at the right dosage for your dog's size.
In rare cases or with higher doses, dogs may experience drowsiness or temporary lack of coordination. These side effects are often linked to the dosage, and adjusting it can help mitigate them.
If your dog is already on anticonvulsant medications, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian before introducing CBD. CBD can interact with certain medications, so it's important to ensure your dog's safety and avoid any potential drug interactions.
Which Dogs Could Benefit Most?
Dogs with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy may benefit the most from CBD, based on current research. While it has shown promise in reducing seizure frequency, especially in those not responding well to traditional medications, it’s essential for dog owners to consult with their veterinarian before adding CBD to their dog's treatment plan, as individual responses can vary. CBD should never replace conventional treatments but may serve as a complementary option.
High-Quality CBD Oil for Dogs: What to Look For
Because CBD oil for pets isn't strictly regulated, you need to know how to spot high-quality products. The following are quality indicators to look for when choosing the best CBD oil for your dog:
1. Independent Lab Testing
Reputable CBD companies will provide independent laboratory test results for each batch of CBD oil. This information confirms the concentration and purity of the product and verifies that it meets legal requirements.
2. Comprehensive Ingredient Lists
Check that the product label lists the amount of CBD in milligrams and any other ingredients that are included. This transparency lets you stay informed about what you're giving your dog. A clear label will also help you spot allergens or ingredients harmful to dogs, such as the artificial sweetener xylitol.
3. Commitment to Animal Welfare
Finally, choose a company demonstrating its commitment to animal health and welfare. Potential means of support include donating proceeds to animal rescue organizations and conducting cruelty-free testing.
So, What’s The Final Verdict?
Seizures in dogs can be frightening, but there are steps you can take to treat and manage them.
The best first step is to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian. Your vet will check for underlying conditions that could be causing the attacks and treat them. If your dog is diagnosed with epilepsy, they'll help you build a management plan to improve your dog's quality of life.
If you're interested in CBD, you can also bring up CBD oil with your vet. Remember, CBD works best alongside traditional medications. Your vet will determine whether CBD is safe for your pup and help you choose an appropriate product.
