Supplements for Brain Health
These are the supplements with the strongest evidence in senior-dog cognitive care. These supplements are often added in early CCD or when dogs need extra support. Many are used in combination products, or offered as individual additions depending on the dog’s needs.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA & EPA)
Omega-3s — especially DHA — are essential for brain cell health, reducing inflammation, and supporting memory and learning. They’re one of the few supplements consistently shown to improve cognitive signs.
Good for:
✓ memory
✓ night-time anxiety
✓ slowing progression
2. Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT Oil)
MCTs act as an alternative fuel source for the ageing brain. When older brains struggle to use glucose, ketones from MCTs step in to support energy and neuron health.
Good for:
✓ disorientation
✓ social interaction
✓ sleep–wake cycles
3. Antioxidants & Mitochondrial Support
Oxidative stress increases as pets age. Antioxidants help protect the brain from ongoing cell damage.
Common antioxidants used in senior-dog care include:
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
L-carnitine
Alpha-lipoic acid
These support mitochondrial function — essentially giving the brain’s energy factories a little more strength.
4. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo is known for improving blood flow to the brain and supporting memory. It’s widely used in human cognitive support, and some vets use it carefully in senior dogs.
May help:
✓ mental alertness
✓ circulation
✓ mild disorientation
(Note: should be avoided in dogs on blood-thinning medications.)
5. Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter production — including serotonin and dopamine. Low levels can worsen irritability, anxiety, and cognitive changes.
May help:
✓ mood
✓ anxiety
✓ neurologic function
6. Resveratrol
A plant-based antioxidant found in grapes and berries. It supports cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and may protect neurons from oxidative ageing.
May help:
✓ slowing brain ageing
✓ protecting nerve cells
✓ supporting overall vitality
7. SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine)
SAM-e supports liver function and boosts mood by improving neurotransmitter processing. It’s used in senior pets for both brain and liver support.
May help:
✓ activity levels
✓ mood
✓ daytime engagement
8. Phosphatidylserine
A natural phospholipid found in brain cell membranes. It supports memory, focus, and healthy nerve signalling.
May help:
✓ learning
✓ memory
✓ reducing confusion
This is one of the stronger “nootropic-style” supplements for dogs.
9. Ashwagandha
A gentle adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support stress, anxiety, and sleep. In senior dogs, it may help with night-time restlessness and stress-related behaviours.
May help:
✓ anxiety
✓ sleep
✓ stress tolerance
10. Medicinal Mushrooms
Certain mushrooms — like lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps — are used in integrative medicine to support brain health, immunity, and calmness.
Lion’s mane: supports nerve growth and cognitive function
Reishi: calming, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating
Cordyceps: energy, vitality, oxygenation
May help:
✓ cognitive clarity
✓ inflammation
✓ ageing-related fatigue
✨ The Best Approach: Combination Support, Not Just One Supplement ✨
Cognitive decline comes from multiple processes — inflammation, oxidative stress, reduced blood flow, changes in neurotransmitters, and energy deficits in the brain.
That’s why a multi-modal approach works best:
A brain-supportive diet
Omega-3s + MCTs
Antioxidants
Gentle herbal supports (ashwagandha, mushrooms, ginkgo)
Cognitive enrichment and predictable routines
Supplements help, but they can’t replace comfort, routine, connection, and thoughtful veterinary care.
⚠️ Important Safety Notes
Because senior dogs often have other medical conditions:
Always check supplements with your vet — especially if your dog has heart disease, kidney disease, or is on medications.
Avoid ginkgo in dogs on anticoagulants.
Human supplements can be unsafe or dosed incorrectly for dogs.
Stop any supplement that causes vomiting, diarrhoea, agitation, or behaviour changes.
Start slow — one new thing at a time.
A Gentle Word for Pet Parents
Supporting a dog with cognitive decline is emotional, tender work.
You’re not alone, and you’re not expected to figure it out by yourself.
With the right mix of nutrition, supplements, comfort, and veterinary guidance, many dogs experience improved clarity, calmer nights, and a more peaceful ageing process.
If you ever want personalised support, a quality-of-life check, or a gentle home visit, I’m here to help you and your beautiful senior pet every step of the way.