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Top Natural Remedies and Vitamins To Help Manage Dog Seizures
Watching your dog have a seizure can be a traumatic experience, but there is hope for both you and your pet. Our own rescue dog, Legend, battled seizures, and through our journey to help him, we discovered effective tools could benefit many other dogs as well. Since Ask Ariel began in 2005, we have had the privilege of helping hundreds of seizure dogs using a combination of conventional treatments and natural supplements.
It’s important to understand how seizures affect your dog’s brain. Seizures occur when there’s a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity, causing neurons to misfire uncontrollably. Without proper control through medications or supplements, these misfires can intensify over time. This phenomenon, known as the "kindling effect," means that each seizure may prime the brain for more, increasing both the frequency and severity of future episodes. That’s why early and consistent management is important.
While some dogs may be fortunate enough to experience only a single seizure, managing seizures with medication alone is often not enough for most pets. Many dogs continue to experience breakthrough seizures even while on medication, and increasing drug doses or adding more drugs can lead to unwanted side effects. There isn’t a magical supplement to stop dog seizures, and it’s important to know that anti-seizure medications are not a cure-all either. From our experience, what seems to work best is a combination of holistic and conventional treatments for dogs with seizures.
Natural Treatments For Seizures In Dogs
 Amazing Omegas: Brain Health and Inflammation Support
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, play a critical role in brain health. Amazing Omegas provide the highest quality fish oil to support cognitive function and reduce inflammation, which can be a trigger for seizures. Amazing Omegas is the best fish oil for dogs with seizures. The quality and purity just can’t be compared. Amazing Omegas is naturally processed and third-party tested to ensure our omega-3 supplement is free of toxins and heavy metals (including mercury and PCBs). It is concentrated to provide a highly therapeutic dose from a small amount of oil. Packed in specialty glass bottles to maintain freshness and purity.
 K9 Digestive Enzymes: Gut Health For Seizure Control
Scientific researchers are studying the important connection between the gut and the brain, referred to as the “gut-brain axis.” The gut microbiome includes hundreds of species of bacteria and is now recognized as an important part of animal health. A healthy gut microbiome can affect brain function and may in fact affect seizure activity. Just as migraine headaches in humans may be affected by digestion and food intolerances, seizures in pets may be affected by a dog’s diet and gut health. K9 Digestive Enzymes contains powerful ingredients like ox bile extract and HCL to improve the digestion and absorption of fats and proteins.
 Power Probiotic: Immune and Digestive Support
Power Probiotic is a powerful, multi-strain probiotic that helps to improve your dog’s microbiome, which in turn can support overall immune health and digestive function. For dogs with seizures, maintaining a healthy gut-brain connection is important, as inflammation and imbalances in the gut can potentially impact neurological health. Power Probiotic works to restore balance in your dog’s gut, helping to reduce inflammation and promote better digestion, which may also help support their seizure management. Power Probiotic is safe and natural.
 Dog Brain Booster: Focused Brain Health Support
Dog Brain Booster contains two of the most powerful and beneficial natural brain nutrients, phosphatidylserine and acetyl-L-carnitine, to support and nurture brain health. Dog Brain Booster has been helpful for dogs with focal seizures and quite beneficial for dogs with brain tumors that can cause seizures. It is also extremely beneficial for pets with neurological conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and dementia. For dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (genetic), it will not control seizures in the same way as Happy Paws hemp extract.
.png) Happy Paws Organic Hemp Extract for Dogs
CBD oil has gained significant attention for its potential to help dogs with seizures, particularly in cases of idiopathic epilepsy. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp plants that interacts with your dog's endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating many bodily functions, including neurological activity.
Several studies have shown promising results regarding CBD oil’s ability to reduce seizure frequency and severity in dogs, especially when conventional medications are not enough. A notable 2019 clinical study conducted at Colorado State University found that 89% of dogs receiving CBD oil saw a reduction in the frequency of their seizures*. In the study, dogs with idiopathic epilepsy were given CBD oil in combination with their existing anti-seizure medications, and the results showed a marked improvement in seizure control for many dogs.
CBD works by calming overactive neurons, promoting a more balanced state in your dog’s brain, which can help reduce the likelihood of seizures. This makes it particularly beneficial for dogs who have not responded well to traditional medications like phenobarbital or potassium bromide.
Not all pet CBD oil is the same and the amount used needs to be properly controlled. More is not necessarily better, and many forms of pet CBD contain THC (which can have an adverse side effect on seizure dogs) or contain chemicals and pesticides. When using CBD oil for your dog, it's essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it based on your veterinarian's advice. Happy Paws Drops is a high-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil - to ensure your dog receives the full benefits of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which work together to provide therapeutic effects. Ask Ariel carefully researched our professional veterinary strength Hemp Extract. It is 100% organic grown in Colorado and bottled in the USA. It has been used successfully by many seizure patients, including our very own Legend (story below).
*Reference: Journal of the American Veterinary Association. June 1, 2019.
A Comprehensive Guide To Managing Seizures In Dogs
Managing dog seizures can be challenging, but there are practical steps you can take to help reduce their frequency and severity. By combining conventional treatments with holistic approaches, you can provide your dog with comprehensive care. Here are 8 tips that can support your dog's overall health and potentially help limit seizures.
1. When to Consult a Veterinary Neurologist for Your Dog’s Seizures
When a dog has its first epileptic seizure, depending upon the age and other health issues affecting the dog, the most common next step is a “wait and see” approach. Some dogs may never have another seizure. Some dogs may have another seizure a week later. Every dog is different. However, if your dog has a couple of seizures in a relatively short period of time or experiences cluster seizures (either several seizures one after another in the same episode or several seizures closely timed over a few days), then it’s a good idea to seek out the advice of a neurologist. Why? Veterinary neurologists see more seizure patients than a regular veterinarian and will have more experience and knowledge on how best to treat your pup. This does not mean you should rush and put your pet through stressful and expensive testing such as MRIs and spinal taps unless absolutely necessary. You can have an exploratory discussion with a neurologist just to learn what your treatment options are.
2. What Triggers Seizures in Dogs and How to Minimize Them
What can trigger a seizure in a dog? There are many things that can trigger your dog’s seizures. Causes of seizures in dogs can range from idiopathic epilepsy (inherited - no known cause), ingestion of toxins, low blood sugar, brain trauma and brain tumors. Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs and can occur when there are changes in brain activity, such as when the dog is waking up or excited. Knowing what can trigger a seizure in a dog can often reduce the frequency of seizures. Be sure to document each time your dog has a seizure and try to identify any factors that were different or unusual. Diet can be a HUGE trigger. What did your dog eat? Was your dog left alone longer than usual? Was it fed later than usual? Were there kids playing or loud music or cleaning products used? Changes in routine, loud noises, certain foods, and even emotional stress can play a role. By recognizing triggers, you may reduce the frequency of seizures.
3. Work With Your Veterinarian To Determine if Other Health Conditions May Be a Factor
Health conditions such as brain tumors, hypothyroidism or advanced liver or kidney disease can cause seizures. Having your dog thoroughly checked for other health issues is important. Age can also be a factor. A dog may have an occasional seizure as a young pup but then develop more frequent seizures as an adult dog. Your vet can help rule out these factors and offer better seizure management strategies.
4. The Role of Diet in Reducing Seizure Frequency
Food allergens can cause stress on your pet’s health and grains can be pro-inflammatory. Ideally, a canine epilepsy diet should include fresh ingredients such as a high-quality protein and vegetables and be low in carbohydrates. Food allergies can potentially trigger seizures in dogs, similar to how certain foods can cause migraines in people. Food allergies can create inflammation, which may affect a dog’s neurological system. Inflammatory responses caused by allergies can increase the risk of seizures in dogs that are already prone to them, as inflammation can disrupt the brain's normal activity. Many dogs improve by avoiding common allergens such as soy and poultry, grains, chemical additives and food colorings (found in many treats). A homemade or raw frozen commercial diet can be helpful. Please include your dog’s diet and treats on the order form at checkout, and we will provide diet tips on the packing slip that comes with your product directions.
5. Use The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Dogs with Seizures
Whether you try to control your dog’s seizures without medication or use antiepileptic drugs, supplements are an essential part of a seizure dog’s care. According to the AKC, between 20 and 30% of dogs taking antiepileptic medications still experience seizures, and some dogs do not respond effectively to conventional medication at all. This is where natural anti-seizure supplements for dogs can help your pet immensely. Natural remedies for dog seizures can help your dog’s anxiety and stress levels. Dog digestive supplements such as enzymes and probiotics are essential because digestive issues, intestinal dysbiosis and alterations in intestinal bacteria (currently being researched) may affect seizure activity.
Using supplements like Happy Paws Hemp Extract for Dogs and Amazing Omegas can provide natural support for your dog’s brain and overall health. Probiotics and digestive enzymes may also help reduce seizure activity by promoting a healthy gut, which researchers link to brain function. Some pet owners have found vitamins such as B Complex and milk thistle (important to use if your pet is taking antiepileptic medication that can affect liver health) to be helpful as well. When searching for the best vitamins for epilepsy in dogs, please work with your veterinarian to determine the best vitamins for your dog's needs.
6. How to Create a Safe and Stress-Free Environment for Seizure Dogs
Dogs with seizures tend to be more sensitive to their surroundings and small changes can sometimes trigger a seizure. Factors like loud noises, strong fragrances from scented candles or cleaning supplies, and even changes in routine can affect seizure-prone dogs more than others. There are certain breeds more prone to getting seizures that include herding dogs like Border Collies, Labrador & Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, Shelties, and breeds with short, flat noses like Pugs and Boston Terriers, but any dog can experience them.
If your dog has seizures, creating a calm, stable environment is key to helping them feel secure. Regular feeding schedules, consistent routines, and minimizing exposure to stressors can make a big difference. If you have a busy schedule, hiring a pet sitter or taking your dog to daycare can provide the extra care and stability they need. By reducing stress, you can help keep your dog more comfortable and lower the risk of seizures.
7. Use An Integrated Approach To Managing Your Dog’s Seizures
While some dogs may thrive with a natural approach, most seizure dogs will require medication. Newer dog seizure medications may have minimal, if any, side effects. For example, Keppra has far fewer side effects on a dog’s long-term health than older drugs such as phenobarbital. Some dogs may require multiple medications to control the seizures. Holistic treatments for dog seizures (feeding the best diet, making lifestyle changes and giving your dog seizure supplements) combined with conventional veterinary care will yield the best possible results. Before starting any natural anti-seizure supplements for dogs, it’s best to work with your veterinarian to integrate the remedies into your pet’s prescribed treatment protocol.
8. Maintaining A Consistent Routine for Dogs with Seizures
Consistency is key for seizure dogs. Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on a regular schedule. Do your best to feed your dog at least two meals a day at approximately the same time each day. If you are giving your dog medications, consider a pill reminder container along with phone alarms to ensure your dog gets the medication it needs at the scheduled time. It is very easy to forget if you gave your pet its medication, and the fluctuation can affect your dog’s brain seizure threshold. Breakthrough seizures often occur due to unintentional inconsistency in administering medications. We all get busy and distracted! Try to have a backup plan for your dog when you need to be gone from the home extra hours or are traveling. Plan ahead to maintain your dog's routine even when you're away.
Canine Epilepsy Success Stories
We wanted to share a few stories about seizure dogs that have benefitted from the combination of conventional and holistic treatments. It's important to know that things can get better for our dogs, even when their situation feels so dark.
Legend
"Our happy-go-lucky pup, Legend, was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. For most of his life, we managed his seizures holistically with help from our vet. By documenting his seizures, we discovered that they occurred when he hadn’t eaten for a while. Legend would eat grass and vomit before having a seizure, so we learned to watch the signs and averted seizures several times with food and digestive supplements. For seven years, this holistic approach kept his seizures to about one to three a year - better than most dogs on antiepileptic medications.
At 8.5 years old, things changed. Legend needed thyroid medication (hypothyroidism can affect seizures) and required anesthesia for a growth removal. Because he couldn’t eat before the anesthesia, the acid stomach caused him to have a grand mal seizure during surgery. After that, his seizures became more frequent, about every two months. We learned that as more seizures occur, it lowers the overall seizure threshold, making it likely that the seizure disorder will worsen. Legend’s seizures soon escalated to clusters, with five occurring in three days. The post-seizure phase was terrible - he was disoriented, agitated, & restless, sometimes staying up all night in a manic state. The seizures drained his personality, leaving him depressed and lethargic for weeks.
We sought the advice of a veterinary neurologist, Dr. Michelle Murray. She reviewed Legend's seven-year seizure history. While other clinics pushed for an MRI (which could trigger more seizures due to fasting for anesthesia), our neurologist believed Legend had idiopathic epilepsy, which is common in Siberian Huskies. Dr. Murray was hopeful for him and what happened next was truly a miracle.
Dr. Murray worked with us to introduce a very low dosage of Keppra into Legend’s schedule. His Keppra was given three times a day and his other supplements and CBD oil were given at other times. We made a huge commitment to keep his regimen for feeding, medications, supplements and activity as close to regular as we possibly could. This meant taking him with us as much as we could (he has always had separation anxiety) or hiring a pet sitter and keeping him on a regular schedule.
Over time, we saw our bouncy boy come back to us. Legend started playing with other dogs, wanting to go on walks and greeting guests when they walked in the door (previously he was hiding in another room). Legend didn’t have any side effects from the medication and had a wonderful quality of life, something we never thought possible at the height of his cluster seizures. Legend was seizure-free for over 6 years before losing his battle with liver cancer." - The Davis Family
Hope
"Hope came to live with us after spending two years at a rescue, where she had been treated for generalized seizures. For years, the phenobarbital seemed to keep her seizures under control. There were stretches of time where we thought she might no longer need it. In July 2019, Hope experienced a cluster of 7 seizures within one week. After consulting with our vet, her phenobarbital dosage was adjusted and she stabilized again.
There were challenges along the way. A blood test revealed that Hope's liver levels were dangerously high, and our vet even suggested she was in liver failure. We started giving her Liver Support and Special SAM-e and added some raw beets to her meals. At her next check-up, her liver values had returned to a healthy range. Even the vet couldn’t believe it was the same dog!
In October 2020, Hope had another setback. Over the course of a single day, she suffered 8 seizures. When the seizures were over, she continued knuckling and bumping into things. We visited a neurologist who added Keppra to her regimen. We started weaning her off of the phenobarbital. Her condition improved with time and she was again seizure-free for a while.
In addition to her medications, Hope took Power Probiotic and Amazing Omegas to support her brain health, and for years, these supplements seemed to make all the difference. She did remarkably well until July 2022, when she experienced multiple seizures and likely suffered a stroke, which led to blindness.
Despite these challenges, Hope lived seven wonderful years where her seizures were well-controlled, thanks to a combination of medication and holistic support. I'm grateful for the time we had together and the quality of life we were able to give her during those years." - Laura, California
We hope these stories can give you inspiration and encouragement. Please reach out to us at [email protected] - we are happy to help you find the right natural remedies for your dog’s seizures and overall health. While we cannot provide any consultative advice due to veterinary regulations that require a physical exam, you will receive a compassionate response from our team, and we can honestly say we have been in your shoes and understand what you are going through.
Updated: October 10, 2024
Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
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