Does CBD Oil Help Dogs with Epilepsy? What Dog Parents Need to Know

Pet owners understand the lengths they must go to for their furry companions’ health and happiness. And when a dog is dealing with something as serious as canine epilepsy, those protective instincts kick into overdrive. Canine epilepsy, marked by unpredictable and often frightening epileptic seizures, makes even the most experienced pet owners feel powerless.

Traditional anti-seizure medications help but often come with reported side effects like drowsiness, liver damage, or changes in behavior (Akyüz, E., et al., 2021)., leaving many pet owners on the lookout for safer, natural remedies that support both comfort and seizure control. CBD oil is an increasingly popular supplement from the cannabis plant. Known for its potential therapeutic properties, CBD has captured the attention of both pet parents and researchers. For dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (that is, epilepsy with no identifiable cause), CBD oil offers a promising alternative or complementary option to traditional seizure medications (García, G., et al., 2022). But does it help reduce seizure frequency and improve life quality for dogs with epilepsy?

This guide breaks down the science behind CBD treatment for canine epilepsy, examines what studies and veterinary experts have to say, and dives into real-world success stories from pet parents who’ve seen the impact of CBD firsthand. Whether a pet parent is new to CBD or just wants the latest insights on how it’s being used for seizure management in dogs, this guide discusses the essentials so one makes the best decision for a four-legged friend.

Understanding Canine Epilepsy

According to studies in Veterinary Record, “Epilepsy is the most common canine chronic neurological brain disease, affecting 0.6 to 0.75 percent of dogs and poses threats to both quality and quantity of life.” (Fenn, J., & Beltran, E., 2019; Packer, R., & Volk, H., 2015). Idiopathic epilepsy means it doesn’t have a clear, identifiable cause. Instead, it’s a brain condition that’s there to stay, resulting in recurrent seizures—a huge challenge for both pups and their owners.

Epileptic seizures in dogs are caused by electrical misfires in the brain, sending overactive neurons into a frenzy. An observational study found that “Epileptic beagle dogs show a specific pattern of brain damage, with common areas affected being the cerebral cortex, basal nuclei, claustrum, amygdala, septal nuclei, dorsal thalamic nuclei, isthmus of the pyri,” (Montgomery, D., & Lee, A., 1983). Seizures vary from mild “focal seizures” to full-blown “generalized seizures,” which make everyday life challenging for pet parents trying to keep their dog comfortable and safe. A study in The Journal of Small Animal Practice concluded that “Cluster seizures are highly prevalent in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, with intact females more likely to experience more frequent episodes, and euthanasia is associated with increased cluster seizure episodes,” (Monteiro, R., et al., 2012).

With traditional anti-seizure medications like phenobarbital and potassium bromide, some relief is possible. However, many dogs experience side effects. A comparative study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that although “Phenobarbital is more effective and better tolerated than bromide as a first-choice antiepileptic drug for dogs with epilepsy, Phenobarbital-treated dogs experienced greater ataxia, lethargy, and polydipsia, while bromide-treated dogs experienced greater vomiting,” (Boothe, D., Dewey, C., & Carpenter, D., 2012). 

Even worse? “Canine epilepsy treatment requires improved control rather than a cure, with 30% of dogs unadvisedly controlled using conventional drugs alone, highlighting the need for alternative treatments,” (Jeffery, N., 2014), and that’s where CBD oil steps in as a promising solution.

CBD Oil: What It Is and How It Works

CBD, or cannabidiol, is derived from the cannabis plant and is known for its therapeutic effects—without the “high” associated with THC. So, no, a dog does not suddenly become a couch potato binge-watching TV! Instead, CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in regulating the nervous system, stress response, and even neurological health.

CBD oil is thought to help calm overactive neurons by interacting with receptors in the brain, specifically GPR55 at excitatory synapses and TRPV1 channels, which play a role in managing neural activity (Nichol, K., et al., 2019). This is a big deal for epileptic dogs, as calming those neurons means a lower chance of having a seizure.

Anti-Seizure Properties of CBD: The Science

While there’s still more research needed, current studies and clinical trials offer promising results on the potential of CBD oil for dogs with epilepsy. Colorado State University conducted a groundbreaking study in 2019, revealing that dogs in the CBD group experienced a significant reduction in seizure frequency compared to those receiving a placebo oil. Here’s what they found:

• 89% of dogs in the CBD group had fewer seizures.
• Seizure days occurred much less frequently for these dogs than those in the placebo group.
• Oral cannabidiol (CBD) administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment significantly reduced seizure frequency in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (McGrath, S., et al., 2019).

In addition to this, a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine also observed that “Cannabidiol (CBD) at 9 mg/kg/day significantly decreased seizure frequency in dogs with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy, but liver enzymes should be monitored,” (Rozental, A., et al., 2023). These results are no small feat for pet owners seeking alternatives to traditional treatments for refractory epileptic seizures in dogs.

The Pros and Cons of Using CBD for Dog Seizures

CBD oil is generally well-tolerated, but it’s not entirely side-effect-free. Knowing both the pros and potential risks helps pet owners make an informed decision about using CBD to manage their dog’s seizures. Listed below are some factors to consider.

Pros of CBD Oil for Dogs with Epilepsy

Reduces Seizure Frequency: With studies showing decreased seizure frequency and seizure days in the CBD group, CBD has proven promising for seizure management.

Fewer Side Effects Compared to Conventional Drugs: Traditional anti-seizure drugs cause adverse effects like liver disease, behavioral issues, or even increased seizure frequency. In contrast, “CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract treatment for refractory epilepsy in dogs resulted in minimal adverse events, such as somnolence and transient increases in ataxia,” (García, G., et al., 2022).

Natural Remedy: For pet parents looking to go the holistic route, CBD provides a natural alternative that works with a dog’s own ECS to promote neurological health.

Cons of CBD Oil for Dogs with Epilepsy

Potential Side Effects: Some dogs experience decreased appetite, drowsiness, or mild gastrointestinal issues and ataxia. Monitoring liver enzymes regularly is also essential, as CBD impacts liver function.

Drug Interactions: CBD interacts with anti-seizure medications, potentially impacting their efficacy. Always consult a veterinary neurologist to manage these risks.

Dosage Uncertainty: Finding the effective dose of CBD for seizures in dogs is tricky, as there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Choosing a Quality CBD Oil for Dogs with Epilepsy

When it comes to choosing a CBD oil for a dog, especially if they have epilepsy, not all products are created equal. With so many options out there, finding a CBD oil that’s safe, effective, and specially designed for pets is essential. From formulation to third-party testing, below is a guide to picking the best CBD oil to support a pup’s health.

Look for Pet-Specific Formulations

While it is tempting to buy any CBD oil off the shelf, remember that CBD oil for dogs is designed specifically with pets in mind. Some human CBD products contain ingredients that are harmless to humans but potentially harmful to dogs, like flavoring agents or even higher concentrations of CBD. Dogs and humans metabolize CBD differently, and a product designed for people is too potent or contains added ingredients that cause adverse reactions in dogs.

Third-Party Lab Testing

When it comes to quality assurance, third-party testing is a must. Quality CBD oil providers send their products to independent labs to test for purity, potency, and safety. These labs confirm that CBD oil is free from contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and even THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis that’s toxic to dogs.

Why It Matters: Without third-party testing, pet parents don’t know for sure what’s in the CBD oil they’re giving their dog. The presence of harmful contaminants or inaccurate CBD concentrations leads to health issues, especially in dogs with conditions like epilepsy.

Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD

CBD oils come in a few different varieties: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Each type has its benefits and unique qualities.

Full-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC (under 0.3%), terpenes, and flavonoids naturally found in the cannabis plant. These compounds work together to enhance the entourage effect, potentially making CBD oil more effective at reducing seizures in dogs with epilepsy. However, the small amount of THC, while minimal, still poses risks for some dogs.

Broad-Spectrum CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum but without any THC. This type is often a safe choice for sensitive dogs or owners concerned about THC exposure, while still providing a range of cannabinoids and terpenes for added effectiveness.

CBD Isolate: For dogs that are particularly sensitive or have had adverse reactions to other types of CBD, CBD isolate provides pure CBD without other cannabinoids or THC. While it lacks the entourage effect, it’s ideal for dogs with high sensitivities.

CBD Concentration

One of the most crucial factors in choosing a CBD oil for epilepsy is CBD concentration. For dogs with epilepsy, maintaining a steady concentration of CBD in their system is important for reducing seizure frequency. Starting with a low concentration and gradually adjusting allows pet parents to find the most effective dose while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Dosage Strategy: Start with a low dose and observe how a dog responds. Always increase gradually under the guidance of a veterinary neurologist or veterinarian experienced with CBD, who helps find the right balance for optimal seizure control.

Organic and Natural Ingredients

CBD oils with organic certifications indicate that they’re free from pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals. For dogs with epilepsy, using an all-natural product minimizes the risk of exposure to potentially harmful substances that interfere with their health.

Products with Transparent Labeling

Reputable CBD brands provide clear labeling on their products. This transparency helps pet parents understand exactly what they’re giving their pet, from CBD concentration to ingredient lists. Some CBD oils are also blended with complementary ingredients that aid in calming or general health support, which is beneficial for dogs experiencing frequent seizures.

The Extraction Method 

The way CBD is extracted from hemp affects its quality and purity. Look for CBD oils made with CO2 extraction, which is considered the safest and most effective method. This method preserves the beneficial compounds in CBD while minimizing the presence of unwanted chemicals or residues.

Seek Out Trusted Brands with Veterinary Recommendations

CBD oil is still a relatively new area in veterinary medicine, but some brands have earned positive reputations and even recommendations from veterinary professionals. Choosing a brand that’s well-known, transparent, and reputable gives confidence in its quality.

FAQs 

Here are answers to some common questions pet owners ask before trying CBD oil for seizures in dogs:

Does CBD Oil Completely Cure Epilepsy in Dogs?

No, CBD oil is not a cure. It does, however, significantly reduce seizure frequency and improve the quality of life for many dogs with epilepsy.

What Is the Optimal CBD Dosage for Dogs?

CBD dosage varies widely depending on the dog’s weight, age, and seizure type. Consulting with a veterinarian for personalized recommendations is crucial.

Are There Any Serious Side Effects of CBD for Dogs?

Most dogs tolerate CBD well, but it’s essential to monitor for changes in liver enzymes and general well-being. Some mild side effects like decreased appetite or drowsiness occur.

The Future of CBD in Veterinary Medicine

While research on CBD oil’s effectiveness in controlling seizures is still emerging, scientific evidence shows great promise. As more clinical trials are conducted, the scientific community and general public get a clearer understanding of the best ways to use CBD for epilepsy in dogs, ideal CBD concentrations, and any long-term impacts. Future research also helps clarify how oral cannabidiol administration is optimized to enhance seizure control.

More veterinarians, including those in the American Veterinary Medical Association, are supporting further investigation into CBD as part of comprehensive epilepsy treatment in dogs. With quality, well-researched products, and proper seizure management, pet CBD potentially becomes an even more reliable option for supporting epileptic dogs.

Conclusion

While it’s no magic cure, CBD oil for dogs with epilepsy has the potential to make a significant difference in their lives. With its anticonvulsant properties and ability to potentially reduce seizures, it’s a great tool for pet parents looking for a natural remedy to support their furry friends. Working alongside a trusted veterinarian, more dog parents explore CBD oil as a complementary approach to traditional seizure treatments and take the first steps toward more effective seizure management.

For all the pet owners out there, it’s encouraging to know that the world of veterinary medicine is evolving, and options like CBD are making it easier to provide beloved pets with the care they need.

References

• Akyüz, E., Köklü, B., Ozenen, C., Arulsamy, A., & Shaikh, M. (2021). Elucidating the Potential Side Effects of Current Anti-Seizure Drugs for Epilepsy. Current Neuropharmacology, 19, 1865 – 1883. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X19666210826125341.
• Boothe, D., Dewey, C., & Carpenter, D. (2012). Comparison of phenobarbital with bromide as a first-choice antiepileptic drug for treatment of epilepsy in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 240 9, 1073-83. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.240.9.1073.
• Fenn, J., & Beltran, E. (2019). Dogs needed for epilepsy study. Veterinary Record, 185, 380 – 380. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.l5679.
• García, G., Kube, S., Carrera-Justiz, S., Tittle, D., & Wakshlag, J. (2022). Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966.
• Jeffery, N. (2014). Canine epilepsy: in search of a fitting end. Veterinary journal, 199 3, 311-2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.11.017.
• McGrath, S., Bartner, L., Rao, S., Packer, R., & Gustafson, D. (2019). 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. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 254 11, 1301-1308. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.254.11.1301.
• Monteiro, R., Adams, V., Keys, D., & Platt, S. (2012). Canine idiopathic epilepsy: prevalence, risk factors and outcome associated with cluster seizures and status epilepticus. The Journal of Small Animal Practice, 53 9, 526-30. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2012.01251.x.
• Montgomery, D., & Lee, A. (1983). Brain Damage in the Epileptic Beagle Dog. Veterinary Pathology, 20, 160 – 169. https://doi.org/10.1177/030098588302000203.
• Nichol, K., Stott, C., Jones, N., Gray, R., Bazelot, M., & Whalley, B. (2019). The proposed multimodal mechanism of action of cannabidiol (CBD) in epilepsy: modulation of intracellular calcium and adenosine-mediated signaling (P5.5-007). Neurology. https://doi.org/10.1212/wnl.92.15_supplement.p5.5-007.
• Packer, R., & Volk, H. (2015). Epilepsy beyond seizures: a review of the impact of epilepsy and its comorbidities on health-related quality of life in dogs. Veterinary Record, 177, 306 – 315. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.103360.
• Rozental, A., Weisbeck, B., Alvarenga, I., Gustafson, D., Kusick, B., Rao, S., Bartner, L., & McGrath, S. (2023). The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as an adjunct treatment for drug‐resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double‐blinded crossover study. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 37, 2291 – 2300. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16912.