Best CBD Oil for Dogs

2022 Full reviews

1. Best CBD oil for dogs
– Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil

2. Best value CBD oil for dogs
– Simple Wag CBD Oil

3. Best CBD oil for dogs with Arthritis
– CBDistillery Pet Tincture

CBDistillery checks all the boxes of a great CBD oil for dogs, but we think it’s particularly suited to dogs with arthritis and joint degeneration.

Lab reports for CBDistillery’s full-spectrum oil show it contains six of seven major cannabinoids, including high levels of CBD-A, which is known to reduce pain and lower joint inflammation. In our analysis, CBDistillery was one of only four brands to offer products containing CBD-A, and possessed the highest levels of those four.

4. Best CBD oil for dogs with Cancer
– Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract

This pet CBD tincture from Charlotte’s Web contains one of the richest cannabinoid extracts currently available for dogs made from premium Colorado-grown CBD.

Independent lab reports show high levels of CBC and CBG, which in addition to CBD, can help dogs manage the symptoms of cancer (some studies have even been shown to suppress tumor progression).

5. Best CBD oil for dogs with Seizures
– Receptra Pet Tincture

Receptra Naturals scored solidly across each of our ranking factors, making it a good all-around CBD oil for dogs. In our full analysis, we found their CBD extract contained the highest level of CBD-V of any product we’ve reviewed. Combined with an organic MCT carrier oil and great value for money, Receptra is our top recommendation for dogs with seizure conditions.

In clinical trials on the effectiveness of cannabis against fits and seizures, researchers have discovered that CBD and CBD-V show the most anti-convulsant potential of all cannabinoids.

6. Best organic CBD oil for dogs
– NuLeaf Naturals Pet

Being a natural plant product, it makes sense to seek out high-quality ingredients when searching for the best CBD. We think NuLeaf Naturals Organic CBD oil for dogs is a premium option by a brand that pays extra attention to the quality of their hemp and carrier oil.

In our detailed analysis of NuLeaf Naturals, we liked how the brand operates on a seed-to-shelf policy, meaning that they’re in control of the entire lifecycle of their product, from sowing seeds to shipping oil to consumers.

NuLeaf Naturals only use organic hemp plants grown in Colorado and irrigated with Rocky Mountain water. They infuse their extract into an organic virgin hemp seed oil carrier, which is full of beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants.

7. We also like
– Innovet Pur CBD Oil

Larger breeds and dogs with chronic conditions often need considerable amounts of CBD. This can be an issue for owners due to the considerable cost of most CBD products. When it comes to value for money, our pick is Innovet Pet’s PURCBD oil, thanks to their high-quality CBD extraction and large range of concentrations, which lets consumers get the most for their money.

In our full Innovet Pet review, we found that the brand has the cheapest cost per mg of CBD of any product we’ve analyzed. This is because Innovet offers its CBD oil in six different concentrations, from a 125mg bottle all the way up to a huge 6000mg. At the largest size, customers can pay less than a cent per mg of CBD.

8. Best THC-free CBD oil for dogs
– Joy Organics

All the CBD oils in this list are safe for dogs, and the products above only contain tiny traces of THC (below 0.3%).

Because this cannabis compound is famous for causing intoxication in higher doses, however, many owners feel uncomfortable with any amount of THC in their dog’s cannabis products. Others may be shopping from locations where only 0% THC oils are legal.

Joy Organics is aware of these needs and has developed a product that offers CBD’s benefits in a zero-THC format. Their CBD oil for dogs contains an organic broad-spectrum extraction, meaning it’s been modified to remove THC whilst still retaining good amounts of CBD and other cannabinoids, like CBG.

Because unprocessed, full-spectrum CBD oils are considered the most effective CBD products, our scoring system does slightly penalize broad-spectrum and isolate CBD oils. However, this shouldn’t be a concern for owners specifically looking for non-THC products.

9. Best isolate CBD oil for dogs
– Medterra

CBD isolates go further than broad-spectrum oils by removing all cannabis compounds except CBD. This leaves an oil that’s highly predictable and easy to dose—if a little less potent than wider spectrum products.

We’ve chosen Medterra as our pick for best isolate CBD oil because of its US Hemp Authority certification, organic hemp, and an impressive number of positive independently verified reviews. In our Medterra CBD for dogs review, we liked how the brand infuses organic flavorings into their oil, with beef and chicken versions to help tempt picky pups.

10. Best CBD oil for dogs Canada
– Honest Botanicals

While CBD is legal nationwide in Canada, transporting cannabis products across the border remains strictly prohibited. So for Canadian pups, this isolate CBD oil from Vancouver’s Honest Botanicals provides all the same benefits and manufacturing best-practices as the other CBD oils on this list.

Honest Botanicals Bacon Flavour CBD oil for dogs uses the same premium extract as their human CBD products, which is made from 100% Canadian-grown hemp. Lab tests show a 99.6% pure extraction, with no traces of solvents or pesticides.

The CBD is then infused into an organic MCT oil carrier, and flavored with natural bacon extract. An unflavored option is also available.

Extra: Best CBD dog treats
– Honest Paws Calm Bites

We chose Calm Bites as the best CBD oil for dog treats due to Honest Paws high-quality CBD oil and healthy surrounding ingredients. Made with the same full-spectrum CBD as their oil tincture products, along with organic barley, oats, and human-grade peanut butter.

HP’s Calm Bites target anxious and hyper behaviors in dogs, from nervousness and phobias to severe separation anxiety. While prescription medications for canine anxiety are available, many owners are wary of potential side effects and are keen to try less invasive solutions.

Honest Paws also has a line of Mobility, Relief, and Well Bites that focus on different canine symptoms.

CBD Oil for Dogs: FAQ

Everything owners need to know when shopping for pet CBD.

CBD oil for dogs basics

• What is CBD oil?

• How does CBD oil work?

• Is CBD right for my dog?

• What’s the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil?

• What’s the difference between full-spectrum and isolate CBD?

• What is a CBD carrier oil and which type is best for dogs?

• Which CBD extraction method is best?

Buying CBD oil for dogs

• What size CBD oil should I buy?

• Should I buy CBD oils or CBD treats?

• Where can I buy CBD oil for dogs?

• Is it legal to buy CBD oil for dogs in the US?

Giving CBD to your dog

• How do I give my dog CBD oil?

• How much CBD should I give my dog? (dosage guide)

• How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?

• Can I give my dog human CBD oil?

• Can dogs overdose on CBD oil?

• Does CBD oil for dogs have any side effects?

• Will my dog get high on CBD oil?

• Will my dog feel anything when they take CBD oil?

CBD and canine healthcare

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with arthritis?

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with anxiety?

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with seizures?

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with cancer?

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with hip dysplasia?

• How does CBD oil work for dogs with skin conditions?

• Do vets recommend CBD oil?

• Can dogs take CBD alongside other supplements or medications?

What is CBD oil?

CBD is a natural hemp extract, which is proven to reduce inflammation in dogs and humans. Short for cannabidiol, CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, each with its own soothing properties.

Most CBD oils (and all CBD oils for dogs) are made from hemp plants. Hemp is the legal, non-intoxicating version of cannabis, and cannot cause a high. The mind-altering effects often associated with cannabis come from consuming a different, more potent type of cannabis plant called marijuana.

How does CBD oil work?

CBD works by affecting receptors in a part of humans’ and dogs’ bodies called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is a far-reaching mechanism that plays a role in regulating inflammation across all major organs. It can be triggered by internal or external stressors. For example, a rise in ambient temperature, the presence of a perceived threat, a fever, or an insect bite can all activate the ECS.

Other bodily functions impacted by the ECS include digestion, coordination, immune function, mood regulation, pain, swelling, and sleep.

Taking CBD can support the ECS in returning the body to a state of homeostasis (balance), lowering stress and inflammation, and reducing pain, anxiety, and swelling.

Is CBD right for my dog?

CBD is a relevant supplement for any dog with an inflammatory-based condition. This includes:

• Dogs with joint diseases like arthritis or hip dysplasia
• Dogs with neurological or nerve disorders like epilepsy or seizures
• Dogs with canine anxiety, including phobias, separation anxiety, and OCD
• Dogs with allergies and skin irritations
• Dogs with inflammation due to cancers, injuries, and surgical procedures

Happy dogs showing no signs of anxiety, inflammation, or chronic conditions, shouldn’t take CBD or any other wellness supplement without a good reason.

What’s the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil?

To capitalize on the popularity of CBD products, many retailers have started selling hemp oils for humans and dogs. While both products are made from the same plant, hemp oil and CBD oil are not the same.

CBD oils contain cannabinoids extracted from hemp flowers. These are the anti-inflammatory ingredients that make CBD effective against canine disorders.

Hemp oils, on the other hand, are made by cold-pressing the seeds of hemp plants. While these oils are full of healthy polyunsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamins A, C, and E, they are not CBD.

To confuse things further, some CBD extracts are infused into hemp seed oil, making them a combination of both products.

Always read product labels and packaging carefully to check whether an oil actually contains CBD.

What do different cannabinoids do?

Here are some of the most common cannabinoids found in full-spectrum CBD oils, and the current research on their benefits:

• CBD (Cannabidiol)

The main cannabinoid in every CBD oil, cannabidiol can reduce inflammation, anxiety, pain, and seizures. This makes it relevant to dogs with training, behavioral, or inflammatory issues.

Studies performed on dogs have associated CBD with reduced inflammation, lowered joint swelling, and decreased seizure frequency and intensity.

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

This psychoactive compound is famous for producing a high when consumed in large quantities. In trace amounts, however, it can have a non-intoxicating, pain-relieving effect.

Pet CBD products can contain up to 0.3% CBD while remaining both legal and safe for dogs.

• CBG (cannabigerol)

CBG has demonstrated anti-tumor properties when tested on human gastrointestinal cancer cells, while research on mice has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory properties.

CBG is a relatively common cannabinoid found in many high-quality full-spectrum CBD oils.

• CBN (cannabinol)

In rats, CBN has been shown to possess pain-relieving abilities, while anecdotal reports suggest that CBN can be a mild sedative, making it useful for aiding sleep and anxiety reduction.

• CBC (cannabichromene)

Research suggests CBC is able to fight pain by stimulating the release of anandamide, a natural pain-fighting compound produced by the body.

In one study on mice, CBC had an antidepressant effect, improving animals’ reactions to stress.

• CBD-V (cannabidivarin)

CBD-V is being used by major pharmaceutical companies to develop drugs that reduce seizures in humans.

Experts believe that CBD-V targets neural pathways associated with the onset and progression of epilepsy.

• CBD-A (Cannabidiolic Acid)

Research shows that CBD-A performs many of the same functions as NSAIDs to reduce inflammation.

Scientists in Canada found that CBD-A was more effective than CBD at reducing nausea and anxiety by binding to serotonin receptors.

What is a CBD carrier oil and which type is best for dogs?

CBD is more effectively absorbed into the body when it’s consumed with quality fats. That’s one of the reasons why we think oil tinctures are better than other pet CBD products like treats or creams.

A carrier oil is the oil into which a CBD extract is infused. The best kinds of carrier oil are full of healthy fats, such as hemp seed oil and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil.

Hemp seed oil is our favorite carrier because it contains a balanced mix of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fats. It’s also rich in antioxidants and amino acids, helping dogs keep their skin and coat in shape.

MCT oil is also a good choice for carrying CBD. It’s usually made from fractionated coconut, which has a milder taste than hemp seed oil while still aiding digestion.

Other, less popular options include olive oil and grape seed oils.

Which CBD extraction method is best?

What size CBD oil should I buy?

Most pet CBD brands offer products in several sizes to help owners get the best value for their dog’s needs. Because CBD dosages are calculated by weight, bigger dogs often need a lot more CBD oil than smaller breeds.

Pups with chronic conditions, such as recurrent seizures, may also need larger daily dosages than dogs with infrequent issues like phobias, who might only take CBD once every few months.

Owners of large dogs or dogs with ongoing conditions should look at high-concentration CBD oils. While they are more expensive than smaller-sized products, they usually offer a lower cost per mg of CBD, meaning that you’ll save money in the long run.

Should I buy CBD oils or CBD dog treats?

We generally recommend CBD oils over CBD treats for two reasons.

First, consuming CBD alongside high-fat foods can increase absorption into the body by up to four times.

Second, because CBD oils are more versatile than treats. Owners can decide exactly how much CBD their dog should get, and add it to their pup’s favorite foods, treats, or directly into their mouths.

CBD treats do have their benefits, though. Many owners prefer the convenience of a pre-made snack, and infusing CBD directly into foods can help reduce any strong plant flavors.

Where can I buy CBD oil for dogs?

Is it legal to buy CBD oil for dogs in the US?

Yes. As long as CBD oil is made from hemp, there are no federal restrictions on buying CBD oil for your dog.

Some state-level regulations limit the types of CBD products eligible for sale:

How do I give my dog CBD oil?

How much CBD should I give my dog? (dosages)

Because CBD is unregulated, there are no official dosage recommendations for CBD and dogs. However, most owners begin by giving their dog 0.2 milligrams of CBD per pound of its body weight and move up from there.

So, if your dog weighs fifty pounds, a good starting dose would be 10 milligrams of CBD. If dogs tolerate CBD well without any side effects, then owners can begin to slowly increase dosages until benefits begin to take effect.

While it’s possible that CBD will begin to work soon after an initial dose, many owners find that effects are cumulative, and begin to show around a week or two after a consistent dosage schedule.

Here’s our full CBD oil for dogs dosage guide, which lays out exactly how much and how to give CBD to your pup.

How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?

Can I give my dog human CBD oil?

Dogs should never be given human CBD products made from marijuana plants (often labeled simply as ‘Cannabis CBD’). They should also never be given CBD oils that contain more than 0.3 percent THC, or pungent terpene profiles.

If a human CBD oil is made from industrial hemp and doesn’t contain significant levels of other cannabinoids or terpenes, it may be ok for dogs to consume. Remember to always follow dosages appropriate for animals rather than humans.

Can dogs overdose on CBD oil?

It is nearly impossible for dogs to overdose on CBD alone. The level is extremely high, at around 30 milligrams of CBD per kg of bodyweight. For most dogs, this is equal to more than an entire bottle of CBD oil in a single dose.

A higher dose of CBD doesn’t necessarily lead to stronger effects, but dosage amounts can differ by condition. For example, higher doses that are effective in treating epilepsy may not affect other conditions such as anxiety, whereas lower doses are.

Does CBD oil for dogs have any side effects?

Compared to most traditional medications for dogs, CBD is extremely safe and has a highly favorable side effect profile. However, a minority of dogs may experience mild side effects when taking CBD. These include:

• Sleepiness, fatigue, or lethargy
• Urinary incontinence
• Vomiting
• Ataxia (coordination issues / drunkenness)
• Hyperesthesia (hyper-sensitivity / overwhelming sensations)

If dogs continue to display these or other side effects after taking CBD products, then supplementation should be stopped.

Will my dog get high on CBD oil?

No. Dogs may feel calmer and more relaxed when taking CBD, but correctly made CBD products are non-intoxicating and incapable of producing a high.

Always ensure your dog’s CBD oil contains less than 0.3 percent THC and is made from hemp plants.

Will my dog feel anything when they take CBD oil?

Dogs may feel calmer, more relaxed, or sleepy after taking CBD oil. Many dogs also show no outward behavioral signs of change.

CBD oil for dogs with arthritis

Because canine osteoarthritis is an inflammatory issue, CBD can soothe joint pain and reduce swelling, which often leads to increased mobility and wellbeing in dogs.

A recent study by Baylor College of Medicine found that four weeks of daily CBD supplementation significantly improves the symptoms of canine arthritis, as assessed by owners and independent veterinarians. Improvements were recorded for up to two weeks after supplementation was stopped.

In 2016, a study using CBD on rats with induced arthritis found that a transdermal CBD gel significantly reduced joint swelling.

Likewise, a similar study on mice with induced arthritis designed to mimic rheumatoid arthritis found that CBD improved the condition of mice’s hind paws and caused immunosuppressive effects on further arthritic damage.

Related: best CBD oil for dogs with arthritis

CBD oil for anxious dogs

As intelligent and social creatures, dogs are particularly prone to anxiety. The two most common forms of canine anxiety are phobias and separation anxiety.

Phobias occur when dogs form negative associations with harmless places, objects, and people. Exposure to those stimuli can then trigger a panic response, causing a dog to whine, scratch, try to run, and even become aggressive.

Separation anxiety is the result of hyper-attachment, a behavioral issue where dogs become overly dependent on a member of their family.

While the effects of CBD on anxiety haven’t been directly tested in dogs, a review of studies on rodents and humans concluded that CBD was able to reduce anxiety behaviors related to PTSD, GAD, PD, OCD, and SAD.

Another study on rats, CBD was found to reduce contextually conditioned fear responses. CBD helped rats deal with anxiety triggers that were associated with particular contexts.

Related: best CBD oil for anxious dogs

CBD oil for dogs with seizures

Many breeds of dogs are susceptible to seizures, which can be environmentally caused or due to underlying health and genetic conditions.

Often, fits and convulsions are related to issues with dogs’ kidneys, livers, brains, and nervous systems. Other factors include the consumption of toxins, low blood sugar, and electrolyte deficiencies. Sometimes, however, no clear cause of a seizure is ever found.

For dogs, Scientists from Colorado State University who conducted a clinical trial found that 89 percent of those treated with CBD experienced reductions in seizure frequency.

Related: best CBD oil for dogs with seizures

CBD oil for dogs with cancer

The most common cancers reported in dogs are mammary cancer (the risk of which can be reduced by spaying) skin cancer, bone cancer, and leukemia.

An increasing number of effective cancer treatments are making their way into veterinary practices from the world of human medicine. Today, dogs with cancer can receive chemotherapy, surgery, and courses of immunotherapy.

CBD is not a cure for cancer, and should never replace conventional treatments. But research indicates that cannabis compounds can play a significant role in helping slow cancer growth in dogs, as well as helping to soothe indirect symptoms.

Studies on the ability of CBD to reduce inflammation suggest that cannabis compounds can reduce the risk of cancers with inflammatory components. CBD oil can also help manage the pain and discomfort caused by traditional cancer treatments and is a less intrusive alternative to opioids.

Related: best CBD oil for dogs with cancer

CBD oil for dogs with hip dysplasia

While hip dysplasia is more common in older dogs, its roots begin during puppyhood when uneven bone growth makes joint degeneration more likely later in life.

As dysplasia progress, dogs can become severely affected, with pain and inflammation making it difficult to run, walk, or move from a laying down position to standing up.

CBD oil for dogs with hip dysplasia may help to prevent further joint damage.

In this way, CBD may be an appropriate alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which frequently cause unwanted side effects.

CBD oil for dogs with skin conditions

The topical application of CBD on dogs can directly soothe skin disorders and irritations, while regular CBD and hemp seed oil supplements help keep dogs’ skin and coat in good condition thanks to enriching Omega fatty acids.

In trials conducted on humans and mice, CBD was effective at reducing or curing conditions including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, scarring, pruritus, inflammatory skin disease, and even skin cancer.

Do vets recommend CBD oil?

Because CBD is not yet approved by the FDA, veterinarians cannot prescribe CBD products. But that doesn’t mean animal healthcare experts aren’t acknowledging the benefits of CBD for dogs. Many vets are already using CBD oil with their own pets.

Legislation in a minority of states does allow vets to discuss (but not prescribe) CBD with pet owners.

Can dogs take CBD with other medications?

CBD is compatible with the vast majority of medications. However, dogs being treated with drugs that are metabolized by CYP450 enzymes shouldn’t take CBD.

This is because cannabis compounds have been known to inhibit how these enzymes break down drugs in the liver. This effect can also be caused by other foods and supplements, such as grapefruits and ginger.