Over the years, I’ve learned that aging dogs bring a unique set of challenges. One of the hardest for many families is watching their dog’s mind begin to change.

If you’ve ever experienced canine cognitive dysfunction (sometimes called “doggy dementia”), you know how heartbreaking it can be. Dogs may pace at night, seem anxious or restless, appear confused, or develop what many people call sundowning—when symptoms worsen in the evening. 

I know this feeling all too well. Cooper and Brinx both experienced cognitive decline as they aged. Ultimately, as the distress, confusion and agitation increased, quality of life declined and at-home euthanasia became our final act of love for them. So, when Winnie began showing early signs of sundowning a few years ago, I FREAKED then I decided to try Halscion by Gold Standard Herbs. She was already two other GSH formulas, Lumbrex and Voltrex, which I was extremely pleased with. In fact, I have never begged a brand to let me carry their products as fast as I did with Gold Standard Herbs. 

The directions said it could be two weeks before noticing a difference but in just a couple doses, those symptoms Winnie was exhibiting disappeared. 

And they’ve stayed away. We have been following the same herbal protcol since July 2023 and Winnie is well into her 16th year of life. 

Because of that experience, Halscion has become one of my all-time favorite products for aging dogs.

What Is Halscion?

Halscion is an herbal supplement formulated by integrative veterinarian Dr. Steve Marsden using principles from Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). The goal of the formula is to support calmness, healthy brain function, and balanced stress responses in dogs.

The blend contains a wide range of herbs traditionally used to support neurological and adrenal health, including:

  • Rehmannia root

  • Panax ginseng

  • Angelica root

  • Goji berry (Lycium fruit)

  • Scutellaria root

  • Jujube fruit

These herbs work together to support circulation to the brain, regulate stress responses, and promote more normal cognitive function.

The powder is simply mixed into a dog’s food, making it easy (and safe) to use long-term.

What Dogs Might Benefit?

While many people reach for Halscion when their dog shows signs of cognitive decline, I recommend it in a few other situations as well.

In my experience, it can be incredibly helpful for:

  • Senior dogs showing signs of confusion or dementia

  • Dogs with seizures disorders

  • Dogs with chronic anxiety that isn’t related to lack of exercise or stimulation

  • Dogs who seem restless, unsettled, or unable to relax

Halscion is considered an adaptogenic formula, meaning it helps the body respond more appropriately to stress rather than simply sedating the dog.

That distinction is important. The goal isn’t to dull your dog—it’s to help their brain function more normally.

The Story Behind Gold Standard Herbs

One of the reasons I trust this line so much is the story behind it.

Gold Standard Herbs was developed by Dr. Steve Marsden, a highly respected integrative veterinarian known for combining Western medicine with Traditional Chinese herbal therapy.

When Dr. Marsden moved to California from Canada,  he couldn’t practice veterinary medicine there using his Canadian license. Instead of stepping away from helping animals, he began volunteering at a local shelter.

There, he saw firsthand how stress, fear, and trauma affect dogs—especially those transitioning from shelter life into homes.

Using his deep knowledge of Chinese herbal medicine, he began creating herbal formulas designed to support dogs during those difficult transitions. Over time, those formulas evolved into the Gold Standard Herbs line used by veterinarians, shelters, and pet parents today.

Why I Love This Line

At Hot Diggity, I’m incredibly picky about what we recommend.

Gold Standard Herbs checks all the boxes for me:

  • Formulated by a veterinarian

  • Rooted in traditional herbal medicine

  • Uses whole herbs rather than isolated compounds

  • Organic and carefully manufactured 

  • Can be used safely alongside other medications

But the biggest reason I love Halscion?

I’ve seen it work.

Watching Winnie regain her normal routine—and peaceful evenings—was honestly remarkable. I also enjoyed sleeping through the night again. 

A Final Thought

Aging is a privilege for our dogs, but it often requires a little extra support. Products like Halscion remind me how powerful gentle, well-formulated herbal medicine can be.

If you have a senior dog who seems anxious, restless, or confused, it may be worth exploring.

Sometimes a sharper mind—and a calmer night—can make all the difference. 

I carry Halscion in all three Hot Diggity locations but you can also find it in our online store here.