Safety deserves more attention than it usually gets in conversations about natural brain health for dogs. “Natural” does not automatically mean gentle, and the brain is not a place to experiment casually. Some compounds that affect neurotransmitters can have real risks; repeated exposure to certain serotonin-targeting inhibitors has been associated with neurotoxic effects in dogs in research settings (Chang JC, 2014). That doesn’t mean common supplements are dangerous, but it does underline the principle: choose products designed for dogs, and involve your veterinarian when your dog has medical complexity.
Be especially careful if your dog is on behavior medications, seizure medications, or has liver or kidney disease. Introduce one new product at a time, watch for appetite changes, GI upset, restlessness, or unusual sedation, and stop the product if something feels off. A calm, methodical approach is part of good brain care.