The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy’s professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.
Hi, I’m Dr. Candy Akers, a holistic veterinarian, and I’d love to help you understand one of the most overlooked nutrients in canine health—choline.
This powerful compound supports your dog’s brain, liver, and metabolism, and it’s a key ingredient in the Standard Process® Choline supplement I often recommend through Journeys Holistic Life for my clients.
Let’s go over what choline does, when to use it, and how to give it safely.
What is Choline by Standard Process?
Choline is an essential nutrient, meaning your dog’s body can’t make enough on its own. It functions much like a B-vitamin—supporting healthy brain activity, liver detoxification, and fat metabolism.
Standard Process creates whole-food-based supplements that work in harmony with the body. Their Choline formula provides this nutrient in a natural, bioavailable form (from food rather than synthetic isolates), which makes it easier for dogs to absorb and use.
I often include choline in wellness plans for dogs who need support with:
- Senior cognitive decline or early “doggy dementia”
- Liver stress from medications or toxins
- Slow metabolism or fatty liver changes seen on bloodwork
Key Benefits of Choline for Dogs
1. Brain & Cognitive Function
Choline helps form acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that supports memory, focus, and muscle coordination.
It can:
- Support senior dogs showing signs of confusion or nighttime restlessness
- Help younger dogs stay sharp during training
- Aid recovery after neurologic injury when used with cold laser therapy or other integrative treatments
2. Liver Health & Detox Support
Choline acts as a lipotropic agent, which means it helps the liver process and move fats efficiently.
This can:
- Prevent fat buildup in the liver (hepatic lipidosis)
- Support detoxification pathways
- Improve energy levels and digestion
3. Nervous System & Muscle Control
Because it helps nerves send messages, choline supports smooth movement, balance, and strength. I often combine it with Cataplex B or E2 from Standard Process for additional nerve and muscle support.
4. Cellular Health & Metabolism
Choline is part of every cell membrane in your dog’s body. It helps maintain strong, flexible cells and supports normal metabolism, including the breakdown of homocysteine (an amino acid linked to heart stress).
What’s Inside: Powerful Nutrients from Whole Foods
The Standard Process Choline formula focuses on quality and balance rather than high doses. Each ingredient works together to nourish the whole body.
Main Ingredient:
- Choline bitartrate – a readily absorbed form that supports brain, liver, and metabolic health.
This nutrient doesn’t work alone. It fits beautifully into a whole-body wellness plan that includes:
- Fresh, species-appropriate food
- Gut health support (such as probiotics)
- Regular movement and mental enrichment
How Choline Helps Common Health Concerns
Here’s how I use choline in my holistic practice:
1. Cognitive Decline (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction)
- Dogs may seem disoriented, anxious, or forget familiar routines.
- Choline helps slow mental decline and supports brain cell communication.
- Works even better when combined with omega-3s and daily mental exercise.
2. Liver Stress or Fatty Liver
- Dogs with elevated liver enzymes often benefit from added choline.
- It helps the liver process fats and toxins more efficiently.
- I often pair it with Standard Process Hepatrophin PMG or Livaplex for deeper liver support.
3. Heart & Metabolic Support
- By regulating homocysteine levels, choline contributes to cardiovascular wellness.
- Helps balance fat metabolism and maintain healthy weight and energy
Dosage & How to Give It
Every dog is unique, so I always adjust based on weight, diet, and overall health.
General guidelines for Standard Process Choline tablets:
| Dog Size | Typical Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1–20 lbs) | 1 tablet | twice daily |
| Medium (21–50 lbs) | 1½ tablets | twice daily |
| Large (51 lbs +) | 2 tablets | twice daily |
Tips for giving supplements:
- Give with meals to support digestion.
- If your dog resists tablets, hide them in food or a treat (peanut butter, cheese, or a soft bite).
- Stay consistent. You’ll usually see the best results after a few weeks of daily use.
If your dog is on prescription medication or has a chronic illness, check with your veterinarian first so we can personalize the dose safely.
Possible Side Effects & Safety Notes
Choline is very safe when used at the right dose. Still, a few dogs may experience:
- Mild stomach upset (vomiting, loose stool, or decreased appetite) if started too quickly
- Drooling or teary eyes if given in excess
If you notice these signs, stop for a day or two, then restart with a smaller amount. Severe symptoms like tremors or difficulty breathing are extremely rare and usually related to overdosing.
Always buy supplements directly from a trusted source like Journeys Holistic Life, where I provide genuine Standard Process products stored under proper conditions. Quality matters—low-grade supplements may not deliver the same benefits.
Integrating Choline into a Holistic Wellness Plan
I like to view choline as part of a complete wellness foundation rather than a “quick fix.” It works beautifully alongside:
- Cold Laser Therapy: supports nerve healing, liver detox, and brain circulation.
- Whole-food diets: balanced homemade or lightly cooked meals.
- Targeted supplements: probiotics, antioxidants, or glandular support when needed.
Together, these therapies help dogs regain energy, clarity, and overall vitality.
Final Thoughts
Supporting your dog’s brain and liver health with choline can make a big difference—especially as they age or recover from illness.
When used correctly, Standard Process Choline is gentle, effective, and part of a holistic path toward long-term wellness.
If you’d like personalized guidance or a full wellness plan for your dog, you can schedule an online holistic consultation with me through Journeys Holistic Life.
Let’s give your dog every chance to thrive—inside and out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choline is one of those quiet heroes in your dog’s body—it supports healthy brain function, liver detox, and fat metabolism. It helps create neurotransmitters (the brain’s messengers) that keep memory, focus, and coordination strong. When dogs get enough choline, their energy, digestion, and overall vitality often improve noticeably.
Choline is a key building block for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps your dog think, learn, and move smoothly. It’s especially helpful for senior dogs showing early signs of confusion or disorientation. Regular choline support can keep their minds sharper and spirits brighter well into their golden years.
Your dog’s liver works hard to filter out toxins and process fats—and choline helps it do both efficiently. It keeps fats moving out of the liver instead of building up, which reduces the risk of fatty liver disease and supports healthy detoxification. This makes choline especially valuable for dogs on medication or those with elevated liver enzymes.
Yes. While Standard Process Choline was originally formulated for people, veterinarians (including myself) have safely and effectively used it for dogs for many years. Always start with professional guidance so the dosage fits your dog’s specific needs. You can purchase authentic Standard Process Choline directly from me at Journeys Holistic Life, where all supplements are stored and shipped under proper conditions.
Choline is very safe when used correctly. A few dogs may experience mild stomach upset or drooling if they get too much too soon. Rarely, excessive doses can cause nausea or loss of appetite. To keep your dog comfortable, always follow the recommended dose and check in with your vet if you notice any unusual behavior.
