Best CBD Oil for Dogs with Seizures

We reviewed 40 CBD brands and here are the top 7 for dogs with seizures

Spring 2023 update | 7 min read

Canine seizures are an upsetting and common condition – and while they’re often more scary than serious – it’s important for dogs to receive effective treatments without side effects.

A growing number of pet owners and animal healthcare experts have found that CBD oil for dogs can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures, offering a legitimate alternative or supplement to existing treatments.

7 Best CBD Oils for Dogs with Seizures in 2023 lined up in side by side

Top 7 CBD oils for dogs with seizures (at a glance):

Honest Paw’s Well uses an organic, full-spectrum CBD oil that is rich in supportive cannabinoids, and has more positive testimonials among pet owners than any brand. Lab reports show that Honest Paws’ hemp extract is particularly relevant for dogs with seizure conditions.

Why trust our CBD reviews?

Our team is made of dog owners and research experts dedicated to all things pet CBD.

We take our recommendations seriously, comparing independent lab results and unbiased testimonials from 40 of the most CBD brands.

How do we rate CBD oils?

We rate CBD oils for dogs with seizures by extract-quality and online customer reviews.

  • CBD extract quality

    The best CBD oils for canine seizures are full-spectrum. This means they contain all the active compounds present in the original hemp plant.

    Studies show that CBD oils with supplementary compounds such as CBD-V may be more effective at reducing symptoms, so we analyze batch tests to make sure our recommended products contain safe, well-rounded CBD.

  • Customer reviews

    Owners of dogs with seizures often have a deep understanding of their pets’ condition, from knowing what triggers a fit, to observing the side effects of medications.

    We analyze independent reviews from Google and Facebook to see what real people say about CBD oils – and whether they really make a difference for dogs with seizures.

How CBD works for canine seizures

CBD interacts with a part of dogs’ bodies called the endocannabinoid system, a regulating mechanism capable of reducing inflammation across major organs.

By stimulating this system, CBD changes brain activity, altering the signals between neurons and reducing the chance of a convulsion.

CBD is also known to reduce nausea and inflammation often associated with convulsions.

Jump down to the science of CBD and seizures from the most up-to-date clinical studies.

Full Review of CBD for Dogs with Seizures

1. Best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
Honest Paws Well CBD Oil

CBD quality

Organic full-spectrum

Great

Owner reviews

630+ ratings

4.9/5

Honest Paws Wellness Oil is the best CBD oil for dogs with seizures for many reasons. Firstly, the product contains 7 of the 7 supportive cannabinoids we look for in CBD oils. A fuller cannabinoid profile improves the efficacy and absorption of CBD in dogs. One of the cannabinoids it contains high amounts of is CBDv, which has been linked with helping seizures.

The reason HP CBD has such a rich cannabinoid profile comes from their use of organic, Colorado grown hemp that is delicately extracted. This ensures a consistent, high-quality full spectrum CBD oil everytime.

We also love hearing from so many pet owners how HP CBD has helped their pets. The brand boasts a 4.9 / 5 star rating from over 600 independent reviews. This says it all.

It’s available in three convenient sizes – 250mg, 500mg, and 1000mg, but we recommend the 1000mg as it offers the best value for the price. At a cost of $0.10 per mg of CBD, it’s only $0.01 more expensive than the industry average.

Honest Paws is so confident in the efficacy of its products that it offers a 30-day money back guarantee on all orders.

All-in-all, if you want the best CBD, best reviews, and best value for the money, HP Wellness Oil is the clear choice for canine seizures.

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Label accuracy: 94%

Supportive cannabinoids: 7 / 7 (view Honest Paws Well lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 125, 250, 500, 1000

Owner reviews: 4.9 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $48, subscribe and save 15%

2nd best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
Batch CBD Pet Oil

CBD quality

Organic full-spectrum

Great

Owner reviews

44+ ratings

5.0/5

Batch CBD is our second pick for the best CBD oil for dogs with seizures. It uses an organic full-spectrum CBD from 100% organic, Wisconsin-grown hemp. It contains the second-highest cannabinoid count of all the pet CBD brands we reviewed, and contains high levels of CBDv, which has shown promising potential in studies done on dogs with seizures.

Batch CBD also offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, which gives pet owners peace of mind when trying out the product. While it may not have as many reviews as other brands, the product boasts an impressive 5/5 star rating from the 44 reviews it has received so far. It also comes in a tasty Alaskan salmon oil and bacon flavor.

The only downsides of Batch CBD Pet oil are that it is only offered in the 750mg size, and it does not use additional therapeutic ingredients like chamomile or turmeric.

Get lowest price on Batch CBD Pet Oil here

Label accuracy: 93%

Supportive cannabinoids: 6 / 7 (view Batch CBD Pet Oil lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 750

Owner reviews: 5 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $25, Subscribe and save 25%

3rd best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
CBDfx Pet Tincture

CBDfx Pet Tincture

CBD quality

Broad-spectrum

Okay

Owner reviews

330+ ratings

4.6/5

CBDfx Pet Tincture is a great option for dogs with seizures, and is our top pick for THC-free CBD oil. With its many positive testimonials, organic and non-GMO ingredients, and vegan-friendly formula, it is a trusted choice for pet owners. CBDfx is made in the USA, comes in four convenient sizes, and has accurate CBD labeling.

However, being a broad-spectrum CBD oil with only 3 of the 7 cannabinoids that we look for, it may not be as effective as a full-spectrum CBD oil. Additionally, CBDfx is not a pet-only focused brand. Overall, CBDfx Pet Tincture is a solid choice for pet owners seeking a broad-spectrum CBD to help manage their dog’s seizures.

Label accuracy: 95%

Supportive cannabinoids: 3 / 7 (view CBDfx for dogs lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 250, 500, 1000, 2000

Owner reviews: 4.6 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on all orders

4th best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
Receptra Pet Tincture

Receptra Natruals Pet Tincture

CBD quality

Full-spectrum

Good

Owner reviews

215+ ratings

4.6/5

Receptra is good all-round brand. Their CBD oil for dogs contains high levels of CBDv and manage to offer excellent value for money.

With a high-quality hemp extraction and a price of just 6 cents per mg of CBD, we had to give Receptra a spot in our list of CBD oils for dogs with seizures. So, for owners considering CBD as a long-term treatment on a budget, this is definitely a product to take closer look at.

Label accuracy: 97%

Supportive cannabinoids: 4 / 7 (view Receptra Pet Tincture lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 480, 750

Owner reviews: 4.8 / 5

Shopping perks: 30 day money-back guarantee, free shipping on all orders

5th best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract

Charlottes Web Hemp Extract for Pets

CBD quality

Full-spectrum

Good

Owner reviews

85+ ratings

3.2/5

Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract Drops for Dogs offers a cannabinoid rich full-spectrum CBD from US grown hemp, with a chicken flavor and unflavored option.

However, its biggest downside is that its lab reports can be inconsistent, with CBD levels advertised on the label only matching its lab tests by 85%. Additionally, it has worse reviews than most brands, with a rating of just 3.2 / 5, and customers have complained about product consistency and unresponsive customer support.

It is also the most expensive option on our list, making it not our top choice, but is a good quality full-spectrum CBD oil worth noting for dogs with seizures.

Label Accuracy: 85%

Supportive cannabinoids: 6 / 7 (view Charlotte’s Web for Dogs lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 510, 1700

Owner Reviews: 3.2 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $74, subscribe and save 20%

6th best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
Holistapet CBD Oil for Dogs

Holistapet CBD Oil for Dogs

CBD quality

Broad-spectrum

Good

Owner reviews

175+ ratings

4.0/5

We like that Holistapet CBD Oil for Dogs is made in the USA using natural ingredients. Additionally, the oil contains high levels of CBDv, which has been found to help with seizures as we have mentioned.

Other nice features are its 4 / 5 star rating from 3rd party reviews, it is offered in 5 convenient sizes so you can choose the perfect size for your dog’s needs, and comes in 3 different flavoring options.

Holistapet’s downsides is that it uses broad-spectrum CBD with only 4 out of the 7 cannabinoids we look for. This means that your dog may not experience the same benefits that come with a fuller profile of supportive cannabinoids.

Label accuracy: 88%

Supportive cannabinoids: 4 / 7 (view Holistapet lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 150, 300, 600, 1200, 3000

Owner reviews: 4 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $50

7. Best CBD isolate oil for dogs with seizures
Medterra Pet Oil

CBD quality

Isolate

Okay

Owner reviews

346+ ratings

4.3/5

Medterra Pet Oil uses a CBD isolate oil, which means that it does not contain any of the additional supportive cannabinoids, like CBDv.

Nonetheless, for pet owners seeking a CBD-only product, this organic oil from Medterra is the top choice as far as CBD isolates go. The brand has garnered many positive reviews, although not all are pet-specific. Their Pet Oil comes in four convenient strengths – 150mg, 300mg, 750mg, and 1200mg CBD – and in a beef, chicken, and unflavored option.

Label accuracy: 95%

Supportive cannabinoids: 1 / 7 (view Medterra CBD Pet Oil lab report)

CBD sizes (mg): 150, 300, 750, 1200

Owner reviews: 4.3 / 5

Shopping perks: Free shipping on order over $75, subscribe for 30% off

The science of CBD and seizures

Unlike some supplement products, CBD has a real clinical record when it comes to having a positive effect on seizure symptoms in dogs.

Researchers are currently assessing the benefits of CBD for a wide range of common inflammatory canine conditions, such as anxiety, arthritis, and digestion issues.

Recent research on CBD and seizures

In 2018, the FDA made its first-ever approval of a CBD-based drug. Called Epidiolex, it’s intended for humans with two types of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. A second CBD-based treatment is also in development, containing the secondary cannabinoid CBD-V.

A randomized 2019 study using dogs with seizures by Colorado State University found that a medium daily dose of CBD was able to reduce both seizure frequency and intensity when compared to a placebo.

CBD spectrum

Any CBD oil made from healthy hemp plants can help reduce inflammatory symptoms in dogs. But some CBD oils have more potential to fight seizures than others.

Cannabis experts agree that products containing full-spectrum extracts usually offer greater benefits than other types of CBD products.

CBD “spectrum” describes the diversity of hemp compounds found in a CBD product:

  • Full-spectrum CBD extracts contain a variety of active hemp compounds, such as CBC, CBN, CBD-A, and CBD-V
  • Broad-spectrum CBD extracts are processed to produce a curated selection of cannabinoids (often done to comply with stricter state laws)
  • Isolate CBD extracts are heavily processed to remove all hemp compounds besides CBD

Beyond CBD spectrum, the quality of hemp plants and manufacturing processes play a big role in how potent and well-rounded a CBD extract is.

For dogs with seizures, we always recommend full-spectrum CBD oil.

CBD-V and other cannabinoids

Even among full-spectrum CBD oils, there are differences worth noting. Depending upon the sub-species of a hemp plant, different combinations of cannabinoids (active hemp compounds) may be present in a CBD extract.

Of the hundreds of active compounds contained in hemp flowers, two have been identified in clinical research as showing the best anticonvulsant effects: these are CBD and CBD-V.

Because of this, we look for extracts that contain high amounts of CBD and CBD-V when recommending products for dogs with seizures.

CBD-V (Cannabidivarin)

The compound CBD-V is very similar to CBD. But some research, including this 2013 study, suggests its different molecular structure may make it more effective at reducing the effects of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures.

CBD and treatment alternatives

Part of the excitement surrounding CBD is caused by dissatisfaction with existing seizure treatments for dogs.

Pharmaceutical drugs like phenobarbital and potassium bromide do work well for some pets but can have serious adverse side effects for others, such as liver toxicity and blood cell loss.

Traditional medications are also rarely a cure for seizures, with dogs needing to continue prescriptions for their entire lives.

Researchers estimate that as many as 40 percent of canine epilepsy cases are drug-resistant. When a condition is classed as drug-resistant, it means that at least two different drugs have been tried and failed.

Another issue with traditional anticonvulsant drugs is that they’ve been known to lose effectiveness without a clear reason.

CBD, on the other hand, is showing similar and reliable results in a significant number of dogs, with a preferable side effect profile.

What causes seizures in dogs?

Environmental triggers

Not all canine seizures are caused by triggers, but keeping a record book of how and when your dog’s seizures occur may help you find patterns and tell-tale signs that a convulsion is imminent.

Common seizure triggers include:

  • Stress, panic, and intense anxiety
  • Dramatic changes in air pressure or weather
  • Being suddenly woken

Whatever a dog’s seizure triggers are, identifying them helps owners to minimize exposure and better prepare.

Diet

A diet that’s rich in fatty acids may help to reduce seizures in some dogs. Studies have found that a diet of high-quality fats and proteins (a Keto diet) reduced symptoms in dogs with seizure conditions.

Hempseed oil is a great fatty acid supplement, being a rich source of omega 3 and omega 6 oils.

Toxins

Several household items that are safe for humans to consume can cause fits and seizures in dogs. These include:

  • Xylitol – a sweetener used in many food and drink products
  • Caffeine – a stimulant found in coffee, tea, soda drinks, sports drinks, and supplement powders

CBD oil for dogs with seizures – FAQ

  • What is CBD oil for dogs with seizures?
  • How does CBD oil work with seizures?
  • What size CBD oil should I buy?
  • Should I buy CBD oils or CBD dog treats for dogs with seizures?
  • How do I give my dog CBD oil for seizures?
  • How much CBD should I give my dog for seizures? (dosages)
  • How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?
  • Can dogs overdose from CBD oil?
  • Does CBD oil for dogs have any side effects?
  • Do vets recommend CBD oil for dogs with seizures?
  • Can dogs take CBD with other seizure medications?
What is CBD oil for dogs with seizures?

CBD oil for seizures in dogs is a natural supplement produced by combining a fatty oil (coconut or hemp seed oil) with a hemp plant extract. Hemp is a non-intoxicating cannabis species with a high concentration of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the buds.

Cannabinoids are natural anti-inflammatory substances. CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids in hemp, along with terpenes, which are relaxing fragrant oils.

How does CBD oil work with seizures?

With research still in its early stages, it’s not known exactly how CBD helps prevent seizures in dogs or humans.

However, researchers suspect that CBD’s antiseizure effects may come from reducing the sensitivity of certain neurons and receptors.

CBD is also an anti-inflammatory agent. Seizures are often triggered by increased brain inflammation.

Therefore, by reducing brain inflammation, CBD may help prevent the conditions where seizures are more likely to occur.

What size CBD oil should I buy?

The amount of CBD oil that a dog needs is often determined by their size and weight, as well as the intensity of their seizure disorder.

A daily dose of CBD administered regularly over several weeks or months may be more beneficial to dogs with continuing seizure issues (or indefinitely). A medium-to-large size CBD oil will provide the best value for money in these situations.

Should I buy CBD oils or CBD dog treats for dogs with seizures?

In most cases, the CBD extract contained in a treat or oil product is the same. So whether you go with one type of product or the other is generally a matter of personal preference.

CBD treats may be more appealing to dogs who are wary of medications. Treats are also easy to transport and use when you’re not at home.

CBD oils can be given directly to dogs or mixed into food and non-CBD treats, allowing owners to customize dosage.

Aside from personal taste, most experts recommend CBD oils since combining CBD with a fatty oil (such as coconut or hempseed oil) can improve absorption during digestion.

How do I give my dog CBD oil for seizures?

CBD isn’t a direct treatment for seizures and shouldn’t be used in a reactive way, so don’t try to give your dog CBD oil during or directly after a convulsion or fit.

Instead, use CBD oil as a daily supplement with the idea that its effects will build over the long term.

Most people add a few drops of CBD oil to their dog’s food every day for seizures. This eliminates the requirement for an additional routine in their schedule.

How much CBD should I give my dog for seizures? (dosages)

When it comes to seizures, most dogs need a moderate-to-high dose of CBD to feel the benefits. That said, dosages can also vary widely, and most owners will spend a week or two dialing in their pet’s dose when beginning CBD treatment.

Because CBD is a supplement rather than a prescribed medication, there aren’t any official dosage instructions. Instead, most CBD experts agree that a dose of 1-2 mg of CBD per pound of body weight is a good place for owners to start.

From here, dog owners can carefully observe their pet for any effects, and gradually increase the dosage if necessary.

Daily routine or single dose?

Some people only recommend giving a dog CBD oil at the point of need. For example, during a fireworks display or a long road trip.

Using CBD in this reactive way may work for some dogs, but evidence from clinical studies suggests that a consistent daily dose is the best approach to using CBD for treating canine seizures and epilepsy.

How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?

Unlike some owners who use CBD to treat disorders like inflammation or anxiety, it should be reasonably obvious whether CBD supplementation is having a positive effect on dogs’ seizure conditions.

CBD is unlikely to completely resolve seizure symptoms, but for dogs who do respond positively, the frequency and/or intensity of symptoms should decrease.

Dogs who benefit from CBD oil may also show less sensitivity to environmental triggers and may experience less nausea as a result of seizure events.

In some dogs, these changes may be gradual, taking place over weeks or months. In these cases, it can be helpful to keep a symptom diary or tracker to record subtler improvements.

Can dogs overdose from CBD oil?

CBD and other hemp compounds do not generate psychotropic or harmful effects, so overdosing on CBD oil is not a realistic possibility.

When scientists tested the upper limits of CBD consumption on monkeys in the early twentieth century, they discovered that long-term exposure to exceptionally high doses of CBD could cause liver damage.

To approach this threshold, dogs would have to consume many times the recommended dose, and would still be unlikely to experience irreversible damage.

Does CBD oil for dogs have any side effects?

While there is no evidence of CBD overdose, some owners have reported mild side effects after giving CBD oil to their dogs. These side effects could be caused by a reaction to the CBD extract, the high-fat carrier oil, or both.

The following are the most frequently reported CBD oil side effects in dogs:

  • Nausea
  • Sleepiness
  • Diarrhea
Do vets recommend CBD oil for dogs with seizures?

Thanks to FDA approval, doctors can now recommend CBD to humans for certain seizure conditions. However, the same approval status doesn’t yet exist in the veterinary world, meaning that most vets are unable to recommend CBD oil for dogs in any official capacity.

However, laws surrounding CBD are quickly changing, and many animal healthcare experts are happy to discuss their personal views on the pros of CBD with dog owners.

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