Our pets are our family, and few things are harder than watching them experience moments of discomfort you can’t control. For some dogs, these challenges come in the form of sudden episodes — shaking, stiffness, or unusual behavior that can leave any pet parent feeling helpless. Understandably, many turn to their vets, online forums, and natural wellness options in search of something that might provide additional comfort.
One natural option that has gained attention is CBD. Derived from hemp, CBD is being explored for its potential to support balance and calm in both humans and animals. While research is still developing, many pet owners are curious about how CBD could fit into their dog’s wellness plan.
What Do These Episodes Look Like?
Dogs experiencing brain function flare-ups may show a wide variety of behaviors. These can include:
- Sudden trembling or twitching
- Loss of coordination or unusual movements
- Staring spells or appearing “dazed”
- Whimpering, barking, or confusion
- Brief moments of collapse or rigidity
The causes behind these episodes can vary — from environmental triggers and stress to underlying health conditions. Because they can look alarming, many owners seek additional ways to provide comfort alongside professional veterinary care.
Why CBD Has Entered the Conversation
CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in hemp. Unlike THC, it doesn’t produce a “high,” but it does interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) — a network of receptors involved in balance, mood, and stress responses.
Because dogs also have an ECS, researchers and pet owners alike are interested in whether CBD could help promote calm and steadiness during times of imbalance. While studies are still in the early stages, anecdotal reports from pet parents suggest it may play a role in helping their furry friends feel more settled.
This is how they regulate things: by immediate feedback, turning up or down the activity of whichever system needs to be adjusted, whether that is hunger, temperature, or alertness.” (1) Our CB2 receptors are mostly found in our immune tissues and play a vital role in controlling and regulating our immune response and functionality. (1)
How can CBD oil work for seizures in dogs?
The CB1 receptor in your dog’s brain has the biggest impact on your dog’s seizures.
Studies suggest that the endocannabinoid system is altered by seizures and epilepsy. Research shows that CBD improves seizure control in patients with specific epilepsy syndromes. Seizures can have profound effects on the endocannabinoid system. This is why CBD, through a process known as “external modulation,” can reduce and sometimes stop seizures from happening. (2)
A study in 2018 tested CBD oil on 3 different dogs with epileptic seizures for 8 weeks and found that 2 of the dogs showed a decrease in seizure intervals, while the 3rd dog showed no improvements.
Another study done in 2022 found that cannabidiol can have antiseizure effects in rodents and human patients. Doses used in canine studies were well tolerated, and efficacy in canine drug-refractory epilepsy has been assessed in 2 studies.
If you have your doubts about the effectiveness of CBD oil for seizures, in 2018 the FDA approved the drug Epidiolex as the first CBD oral solution specifically for the treatment of seizures.
Choosing the Right CBD Product for Your Dog
If you’re curious about CBD for your pet, product quality matters more than anything else. Dogs are more sensitive than humans to additives and toxins, so it’s critical to select safe, transparent, high-quality formulas. Here’s what to look for:
- Full Spectrum Hemp Extract → Includes a variety of beneficial plant compounds, not just CBD.
- Certified Organic Ingredients → Ensures no unnecessary pesticides or solvents.
- Third-Party Lab Testing → Confirms purity and potency for every batch.
- Pet-Friendly Formulas → Avoids added flavors, sugars, or chemicals that may upset sensitive stomachs.
How to Use CBD with Dogs
CBD products for pets typically come in two forms:
- Oils → Can be added during or after meal time. Oils allow for easy serving adjustments.
- Chews → Pre-measured soft chews make CBD simple (and tasty!) for picky eaters.
As with any supplement, start with a low serving size and gradually increase only if needed. Consistency often makes the biggest difference — many pet parents find that daily use works better than occasional, one-off servings.
Beyond CBD: Holistic Tips for Canine Comfort
CBD can be one piece of the puzzle, but supporting your dog’s wellness often requires a broader approach:
- Regular Vet Visits → Always keep your vet in the loop if your dog experiences unusual episodes.
- Safe Environment → Remove hazards during spells of imbalance to prevent injury.
- Balanced Diet & Hydration → Nutrition plays a key role in overall resilience.
- Stress Management → Reducing triggers like loud noises or overstimulation may help minimize flare-ups.
- Routine & Consistency → Dogs thrive on predictable schedules, which can help reduce stress-related behaviors.
Final Thoughts
Watching your dog experience sudden episodes of discomfort can be heartbreaking. While CBD isn’t a cure or guaranteed fix, many pet owners are finding it worth exploring as part of a holistic wellness routine.
By choosing high-quality products, starting slow, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can make informed choices about whether CBD is right for your furry companion.
Works Cited
1. Grinspoon, Peter. “The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious.” Harvard Health, 11 August 2021, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569. Accessed 14 November 2022.
2. Helgeson, Kat. “Benefits Of CBD Oil For Dogs With Seizures.” Dogs Naturally, 12 April 2022, https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/cbd-oil-for-seizures-in-dogs/. Accessed 14 November 2022.
3. Potschka, Heidrun, et al. “Cannabidiol in canine epilepsy.” Science Direct, 17 January 2019, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090023322001289. Accessed 14 November 2022.
