Best Dog Food For Dogs With Seizures/Epilepsy
If you have a dog that is having seizures or epilepsy then you already know that it’s a condition that’s not always easy to manage. Even with medication, seizures can occur. The very nature of epilepsy means that the cause of the seizures is often hard to diagnose.
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Diets for Epileptic Dogs
The fact is that there are no specific dog foods made for dogs with seizures or for dogs with epilepsy. This is probably because seizures can have many different causes, some of which are entirely unknown. With that said, changing a dog’s diet does help some dogs who have seizures. There are also some prescription dog foods sometimes prescribed for other conditions that also seem to help dogs with seizures. However, these foods work on a case by case basis.
Ketogenic diet
Ketogenic – also known as “keto” – diets are high in fat, low in carbs, and have a restricted number of calories. This forces the body to produce ketones by making the body use its stored and consumed fats as a source of energy instead of carbs. This method has been used as a way to treat epilepsy in humans.
It’s not clear yet why these diets help some people who have epilepsy. When in ketosis – the state of the body using fat for energy – ketones provide the primary source of energy for the brain. When there is an increased concentration of ketones the seizure activity appears to decrease. Higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may also help subdue seizures by reducing the excitability of nervous tissue and altering levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain.)
However, whether or not a ketogenic diet would actually help dogs with epilepsy seems doubtful based on the initial study results. For one, dogs do not go through the ketosis process as readily as humans do. There can also be issues caused by a high-fat diet such as pancreatitis and could produce dietary deficiencies or nutritional imbalances. However, more research probably needs to be done. Keto is certainly not a diet you would want to put your dog on without discussing the option and your concerns thoroughly with your vet.
Raw Food Diets For Epileptic Dogs
Many advocate a raw dog food or homemade dog food, in fact, most canine nutritionists and researchers seem to agree that if your dog is having seizures then lowering carbohydrates in the diet can be helpful.
Canine nutritionist Lew Olson, PhD, provides good information about this approach to feeding a dog with epilepsy. She recommends reducing carbs in the diet or eliminating them completely, along with increasing fat and protein which is similar to a ketogenic diet, though not as extreme.
If your dog is taking phenobarbitol, which increases triglycerides (a lipid fat in the blood,) she recommends using a protein with lower fat. If you are feeding your dog kibble, she recommends changing to a raw or home-cooked diet in order to provide your dog with more nutrients and amino acids from animal protein sources – especially l-taurine and l-carnitine. As she states, you can add these amino acids to kibble, but it doesn’t compare to getting them from a fresh source. They are plentiful in beef, lamb, and pork heart, among other meats.
Olson also recommends adding DMG (dimethylglycine) to your dog’s diet:
“[DMG] is an amino acid that comes from glycine. It is thought to help the immune system, enhance memory, and may slow down the rate of seizure activity. It is thought to add oxygen to the blood and is used frequently by athletes. Studies are mixed on the effectiveness of DMG, but it is inexpensive and has no side effects. It also seems to help with dogs that have allergies and skin irritations caused by itching and scratching.”
VetriScience Vetri-DMG
Product Description
Supports immune system function and performance in dogs and cats. Recommended to help support proper immune response, cardiovascular and skin health, glucose metabolism, and proper nerve and brain functions.
Key Benefits
- Veterinary formulated
- 6mg of DMG per drop
- Can be given by mouth or added to food
Additionally, The Bark magazine discusses holistic treatments for dogs with epilepsy in an article online – “Holistic Treatments for Epilepsy in Dogs,” by Jenny Taylor, DVM, including nutraceuticals and Western herbs:
“Nutraceuticals: The exact mechanism of action of each supplement is beyond the scope of this discussion, but a variety of vitamins and nutritional supplements have been highly effective in decreasing seizures in dogs. In my practice, we regularly recommend the following for our epileptic patients: DMG (n, n dimethyl-glycine); Choline; taurine; L-tryptophan; magnesium; melatonin; phosphatidylserine; and antioxidants such as vitamins C, A and B complex [Biotin].
Western Herbs: Many over-the-counter Western herbs, in both capsule and tincture form—including chamomile, milk thistle, skullcap, valerian, oat straw and ginkgo biloba—are used to treat seizures. As with nutraceuticals, always discuss appropriate herbs and dosages with your veterinarian(s) before giving them to your dog.”
Zesty Paws Omega-3 Salmon Bites EPA & DHA Support
Product Description
Zesty Paws includes EPA, DHA, omega-3 and 6, EPA, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Biotin–a powerful B-complex vitamin– and this supplement is made in the USA in an FDA-registered, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified facility.
Key Benefits
- Contains many of the recommended supplements in one chew
- Can be used as a treat instead of a mix-in supplement
- Contains eight out of the twelve recommended supplements for dogs with seizures
Zesty Paws Omega Bites Skin & Coat Support
Product Description
Contains Omega-3, EPA, DHA, Omega-6, Omega-9, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Biotin all in one supplement. Although very similar to the Zesty Paws chewable supplement above, they differ slightly in nutritional information and flavor.
Key Benefits
- Contains many of the recommended supplements in one chew
- Can be used as a treat instead of a mix-in supplement
- Contains eight out of the twelve recommended supplements for dogs with seizures
Prescription Diets for Dogs with Seizures
While feeding a raw or homemade diet may be desirable, it’s often not practical for various reasons, and veterinarians are often willing to prescribe prescription diets or veterinary formulations for dogs with seizures. As already mentioned, there are no specific dog foods for dogs with epilepsy or seizures in general. However, if your dog is taking medication for seizures, some can put extra stress on a dog’s liver. For this reason, vets may prescribe prescription diets for the liver or hypoallergenic diets.
Dogs taking potassium bromide for seizures need to avoid added salt in the diet. Salt is often found in salty treats such as jerky treats but it can be found added in some dog foods (including prescription dog foods) and even in chicken broth.
Prescription diets are made to precise specifications with tight quality control so your dog gets exactly what he needs in his diet in terms of nutrients. The foods may also contain some special ingredients that are not found in ordinary commercial dog food. So, don’t expect organic ingredients and high meat content. However, the foods consistently get very positive reviews.
Hill’s Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care Pork Flavor Dry Dog Food
Product Description
The liver is your dog’s largest internal organ with many functions, including the digestion and conversion of nutrients, the removal of toxic substances from the blood and the storage of vitamins and minerals. The liver has an amazing ability to repair and regenerate itself, and nutrition plays a vital role in this process.
Key Benefits
- Helps reduce liver workload allowing liver tissue to regenerate
- Helps maintain normal fat metabolism in the liver
- Helps avoid nutrient deficiencies commonly related to liver issues
- Supports a healthy immune system
- Moderate levels of high quality protein
- High L-carnitine & L-arginine levels
- Appropriate level of zinc
- Low copper
- Clinically proven antioxidants
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Selected Protein Adult PR Dry Dog Food
Product Description
You won’t find many ingredients in this veterinary-recommended dry food. What you will find is one happy, great-feeling pup! The veterinary-prescribed formula is perfect for any dog with food allergies that can lead to constant sneezing, excessive licking of the paws, gastrointestinal upsets, and skin eruptions. Delicious rabbit and added vitamins and amino acids are great for your dog’s skin and muscles, and are guaranteed to make dinner-time the best time of the day.
Key Benefits
- Grain and gluten-free recipe
- The protein in the diet is provided by potato, rabbit and hydrolyzed soy
- Prescribed by veterinarians specifically for dogs with food-related allergies
- Optimal amounts of B vitamins and amino acids help maintain the skin’s natural barrier effect
- Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids are long chain omega-3 fatty acids that promote a healthy skin and coat
- Naturally preserved to ensure freshness and quality
- Complete and balanced nutrition
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dry Dog Food
Product Description
Food sensitive dogs can benefit from Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Canine Formula, a unique vegetarian dog food that features simple proteins and low-allergen carbohydrates designed to minimize the risk of food allergic reactions. It offers dietary benefits that provide optimal nutrition while meeting your adult dog’s or growing puppy’s special needs.
Key Benefits
- Vegetarian formula
- Single hydrolyzed protein source
- Single low-allergen carbohydrate source
- Highly digestible
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Ultamino Dry Dog Food
Product Description
Canine Ultamino is a highly palatable, highly digestible, complete and balanced hydrolyzed protein diet for adult dogs.
Key Benefits
- Formulated with low molecular weight peptides to support dermatological and gastrointestinal health in dogs with food sensitivities
- Formula and production process dedicated to quality and food safety
- Highly palatable and highly digestible
- Complete and balanced nutrition
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food
Product Description
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food is a highly palatable, highly digestible, complete and balanced hydrolyzed protein diet. The diet is specifically formulated for use as short-term elimination feeding and as long-term nutrition for dogs with food sensitivities. It contains all of the proteins, amino acids, and vitamins needed to boost the immune system and give your pup the energy he needs without upsetting his sensitive tummy. This special prescription dry dog food formula also provides a healthy skin barrier that protects against environmental allergens and bacteria.
Key Benefits
- Vitamin B12 supplement boosts gastrointestinal function
- Beet pulp maximizes nutrient absorption
- Naturally preserved hypo hydrolyzed protein dry dog food formula
- Taurine protects the heart
- Hydrolyzed soy protein, composed of low molecular weight peptides, is highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health
- Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids are long chain omega-3 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat
- Specific nutrient blend to help regulate intestinal transit and to help support the digestive flora
Commercial, Non-Prescription Foods for Dogs with Seizures
The Honest Kitchen has a nice article about managing epilepsy through diet.
Diet may have an effect on the incidence of seizures in some pets. Anecdotal research shows that a diet free of chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT and Ethoxyquin may help to reduce seizure frequency. Artificial flavors and colorings should also be avoided in seizure-prone pets. A minimally processed, home made or other natural diet is thought to be beneficial; such diets are richer in natural antioxidants, enzymes and other important compounds that are necessary for optimal health.
The goal of nutritional therapy is to nourish the brain and nervous system, while detoxifying the body and the pet’s surrounding environment. Limiting consumption of organ meats (especially liver) is also wise during detoxification, since these are the most heavily contaminated with antibiotics and other medications.
These seem like sensible recommendations. Many people feeding good quality dog foods probably already avoid chemical preservatives and seek out natural antioxidants and enzymes. It also makes sense that avoiding liver for your dog could be a good idea if he is having seizures. The article also discusses the subject of avoiding gluten for dogs prone to seizures.
Some people have had success using foods from the Honest Kitchen such as;
- Honest Kitchen Love Dehydrated Dog Food (grain free beef formula)
- Honest Kitchen Zeal Dehydrated Dog Food (grain free fish formula)
- Honest Kitchen Preference Dehydrated Dog Base Mix and add their own meat.
Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw is another food that is often recommended for dogs that have seizures. These foods are grain-free and gluten-free.
- Instinct by Nature’s Variety Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Dry Dog Food
- Instinct by Nature’s Variety Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Dry Dog Food
- Instinct by Nature’s Variety Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Beef Dry Dog Food
Another food that is sometimes recommended by people with dogs who have seizures is Vital Essentials.
- Vital Essentials Chicken Entree Mini Nibs Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food (grain free beef formula)
- Vital Essentials Duck Entree Mini Nibs Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food (grain free fish formula)
- Vital Essentials Turkey Entree Mini Nibs Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food and add their own meat.
While this is by no means an exhaustive list, we hope that this was a good starting point for you and your pup!
Below is a list of Products reviewed in this article
- VetriScience Vetri-DMG
- Zesty Paws Omega-3 Salmon Bites EPA & DHA Support
- Zesty Paws Omega Bites Skin & Coat Support
- Hill’s Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care Pork Flavor Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Selected Protein Adult PR Dry Dog Food
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Ultamino Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hypoallergenic contains:
fructooligosaccharides = SUGAR;
unknown origin and kind of ‘natural flavors’
That’s why I hate sponsored articles and marketing-treated authors… unreliable content!
Thanks for a very informative article but I had & am having a VERY hard time with the side-to-side moving ad at the bottom of the screen on my phone!! I actually left the article a few times because I couldn’t take the movement anymore! It was making me agitated as I have motion sickness & I can’t handle this or when news stations run side-to-side reports on the bottom. I even clicked on the moving ad hoping it would stop it when I went back to reading your article but it didn’t. I finally taped a piece of paper over it. My dog started seizures mid-April, have seen 3 vets, a holistic vet, neurologist, is on a med, changed diet, added supplements, etc, & I research everyday. I had to read your article but the movement of the ad caused me much anquish. Hope you can change it. Your info is so valuable.
Confused…please recommend another brand of DMG for canine epilepsy…Rosemary extract, according to what I have been reading recently, has a tendency to create some stimulation to the brain and can create a possible trigger…Vetri-Science brand has this ( a natural preservative) extract in it…I would much appreciate another recommendation…I’ll be adding DMG, b-complex vitamins with vitamins C, and E in his BARF diet…could there possibly be all of these vitamins in one brand and what brands would you recommend?
Looking forward to hearing your feedback.
Marilyn Williams