We reviewed 40 pet CBD brands and here are the 10 best in 2023
Top 10 CBD oils for dogs at a glance:
1. Honest Paws Calm Oil – best for anxiety (use COFD for 20% off)
2. Honest Paws Mobility Oil – best for arthritis (use COFD for 20% off)
3. Batch CBD Oil for Pets – next best
4. Penelope’s Bloom – best thc-free (use savemore for 15% off)
5. HP Calm Bites – best treats
6. CBDistillery Pet Oil
7. Charlotte’s Web for Pets
8. CBDfx
9. Holistapet
10. Medterra Pets CBD – best isolate (use COFD for 15% off)
Honest Paws uses full-spectrum CBD from organically grown hemp, with the most cannabinoid-rich oil of any brand. With the most positive testimonials from dog owners and backed by a 30 day money back guarantee, this was an easy choice as our top pick.
How CBD works for dogs (in short)
CBD, or cannabidiol, works in dogs by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system that helps regulate many physiological processes in the body, such as mood, inflammation, appetite, and immune response.
When cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, CBN, CBG, and trace amounts of THC, are introduced into a dog’s system, they interact with these receptors to help regulate these physiological processes.
How we Rank CBD Oil for Dogs
Our two main ranking factors are (1) CBD quality and (2) real testimonials.
We analyze independent lab results for supportive cannabinoids and look at dog-owner reviews from independent sources like Google and Facebook.
CBD Quality
While CBD is effective in treating a range of conditions, it has been shown to work more effectively with additional supportive cannabinoids (something called the entourage effect).
When a brand uses higher-quality hemp with better extraction processes, the CBD extract will contain more of these beneficial cannabinoids.
Real Dog Owner Reviews
We look at what pet owners are saying on third-party platforms, like Google or Facebook, not the reviews that brands choose to show you on their website.
Other factors
Lastly, we always check industry certifications from the NASC or US Hemp Authority, label accuracy, additional therapeutic ingredients, customer support, and value for the price.
Full CBD Oil for Dogs Reviews
1. Best CBD oil for dogs
Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil
Honest Paws is our #1 CBD brand for dogs, and their Calm Oil is a top seller. It uses a full-spectrum hemp extract, organically grown in Colorado, which contains all 7 of the supportive cannabinoids we look for to maximize efficacy and absorption.
One cannabinoid in particular it is high in is CBC, which has been shown in studies to have anti-anxiety properties. It also infuses organic chamomile for additional calming effects, making HP Calm Oil our top rated CBD oil for dogs with anxiety.
With its superior CBD quality, it’s no wonder pet owners rave about the effectiveness of Honest Paws. The brand has an impressive 4.9 / 5 star rating from over 630 independent reviews, more than any brand we have reviewed. HP is so confident with their CBD products that all orders come with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
What’s more, the amount of CBD advertised on the label matches the lab reports by 97%, so you can be confident in giving your pup the same consistent product every time.
With the best CBD, best testimonials, and being competitively priced at $0.10 per mg of CBD in the 1000mg size (just $0.01 more expensive than the industry average cost), Honest Paws is our favorite brand and their Calm Oil is our clear winner as the best CBD oil for anxious dogs.
Label accuracy: 97%
Supportive cannabinoids: 7 / 7 (view Honest Paws Calm lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 125, 250, 500, 1000
Owner reviews: 4.9 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $48, subscribe and save 15%
2. Best CBD oil for dogs with Arthritis or Pain
Honest Paws Mobility CBD Oil
Honest Paws products share many features that make this brand great. All of their oils use a rich full-spectrum CBD from organically grown, Colorado hemp. Pet owner reviews are outstanding for all of their products, which all contain 7 of the 7 beneficial cannabinoids, along with accurate labeling and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
The Mobility Oil in particular is formulated specifically for dogs with joint pain and inflammatory issues like arthritis. Infused with turmeric for additional anti-inflammatory effects, and high in CBDa which has been shown in several studies to soothe pain and improve mobility in dogs with arthritis, it is our top choice and effective CBD oil for dogs with arthritis.
Label accuracy: 93%
Supportive cannabinoids: 7 / 7 (view Honest Paws Mobility lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 125, 250, 500, 1000
Owner reviews: 4.9 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $48, subscribe and save 15%
3rd best CBD oil for dogs
Batch CBD Pet Oil
Batch CBD’s is another brand that uses a true full-spectrum CBD with a high concentration of cannabinoids. In fact, it has the second highest cannabinoid count of any of the CBD brands reviewed. This pet oil really stands out for its high levels of CBDv – a supportive cannabinoid shown to specifically help with seizures.
It is made with 100% organic, non-GMO, Wisconsin grown hemp. It uses an organic MCT oil, and comes in both a bacon & Alaskan salmon oil flavor, which is easy on the tastebuds and the stomach. With a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, Batch CBD stands behind the great ingredients that go into its pet CBD products.
While Batch CBD may not have as many reviews as some other brands, the 5/5 star rating from the 44 reviews they do have is certainly impressive.
One thing to keep in mind is that Batch CBD only carries the 750mg size and does not use additional therapeutic ingredients such as turmeric or chamomile, which may be important to some pet owners.
Overall, at $0.09 per mg, Batch CBD’s full-spectrum, organic pet CBD oil is a little less expensive than some other brands, making it a great choice for pet owners who want a potent and effective product without breaking the bank.
Label accuracy: 93%
Supportive cannabinoids: 6 / 7 (view Batch CBD Pet Oil lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 750
Owner reviews: 5 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $25, Subscribe and save 25%
4. Best THC-free CBD oil for dogs
Penelope’s Bloom
If you’re looking for a broad-spectrum CBD oil for your dog, look no further than Penelope’s Bloom. This product boasts the highest cannabinoid count of THC-free choices, making it the most effective choice for managing various ailments in dogs.
It uses organic, USA-grown hemp and contains chamomile for additional calming effects. Available in 4 convenient sizes and priced below the industry average, PB CBD oil for dogs is an affordable option for pet owners.
The only downside to Penelope’s Bloom is it’s not a true full-spectrum CBD oil, meaning that the THC has been removed. While this might make it slightly less effective than the options mentioned above, it’s the best choice for those looking for a THC-free option.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, THC-free CBD oil for your dog, Penelope’s Bloom is the perfect choice. With its high cannabinoid count, organic ingredients, and affordable price, it’s the best broad-spectrum CBD oil for dogs on the market.
Label accuracy: 97%
Supportive cannabinoids: 5 / 7 (view Penelope’s Bloom lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 250, 500, 750, 1000
Owner reviews: 4.2 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $75, subscribe and save 20%
5. Best CBD dog treats
Honest Paws Calm Bites
We chose these Calm Bites as the best CBD dog treats due to their high-quality CBD extract and healthy recipe. Made with the same full-spectrum CBD as the Calm Oil, this formula infuses Honest Paws’ extract into a mix of organic barley, oats, and human-grade peanut butter.
Honest Paws’ Calm Bites are designed to support anxious and hyperactive dogs, lowering stress-caused inflammation, which can make many dogs more receptive to owner commands.
6th best CBD oil for dogs
CBDistillery Pet Tincture
CBDistillery Pet Tincture is the least expensive full-spectrum CBD oil on this list, at a cost of $0.07 per mg of CBD, and contains 5 of the 7 cannabinoids we look for.
It may be slightly cheaper because it is not organic or grown in the USA.
The two biggest downside to CBDistillery Pet Tincture is that its lab reports and label advertising of CBD levels are not closely matched, which may make it difficult for pet owners to accurately dose their dog. Furthermore, the product’s reviews are not as good as the products recommended higher in this list.
Label accuracy: 88%
Supportive cannabinoids: 5 / 7 (view CBDistillery Pet Oil lab report)
CBD sizes (in mg): 150, 600
Owner reviews: 3.9 / 5
Shopping perks: Subscribe to save 30%
7th best CBD oil for dogs
Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract
Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract Drops for Dogs uses a full-spectrum CBD from US grown hemp to deliver a high-quality CBD product for dogs. In fact, it has one of the highest cannabinoid profiles of the best CBD oils for dogs. It’s available in a chicken flavor and an unflavored option.
Despite the high-quality CBD used by Charlotte’s Web, it does have few downsides.
The first is very few reviews and poor reviews, with a rating of just 3.2/5. Customers have complained about leaky bottles and unresponsive customer support, which is a concerning issue. It does not perform well in terms of value, either, as the most expensive product on our list.
The product’s lab reports can also be inconsistent, with different CBD levels reported compared to what’s advertised on the label. It’s also worth noting that Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract Drops for Dogs is only available in two sizes, which may not meet the needs of all dogs.
Overall, Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract Drops for Dogs performs well in terms of cannabinoid profile, but not in our remaining ranking factors.
Label Accuracy: 85%
Supportive cannabinoids: 6 / 7 (view Charlotte’s Web for Dogs lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 510, 1700
Owner Reviews: 3.2 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $74, subscribe and save 20%
8th best CBD oil for dogs
CBDfx Pet Tincture
CBDfx Pet Tincture is a great option to consider thanks to many positive testimonials and the fact that it uses organic, non-GMO, and vegan product made in the USA.
Its lab reports accurately reflect the amount of CBD on its labeling labeling, so pet owners can feel confident knowing that the advertised CBD content is in line with what’s actually in the product. It comes in 4 sizes making it convenient for any breed.
The only real downside to CBDfx Pet Tincture is that it uses a broad-spectrum CBD extract that only contains 3 of the 7 cannabinoids we look for. This may make it less effective than a richer full-spectrum CBD oil. Additionally, CBDfx is not a pet-only focused brand, which may be important for some pet owners.
Label accuracy: 95%
Supportive cannabinoids: 3 / 7 (view CBDfx for dogs lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 250, 500, 1000, 2000
Owner reviews: 4.6 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on all orders
9th best CBD oil for dogs
Holistapet
Holistapet is a reputable name in the CBD pet industry. They use a broad-spectrum CBD extract, meaning that it has some supporting cannabinoids without any trace amounts of THC. This is a good option for dog owners who are unwilling to use a CBD oil with THC (even though all CBD products we recommend are well below the 0.3% THC safety threshold).
While their broad-spectrum won’t be as effective as the higher rated full-spectrum CBD oils on our list, we do like that Holistapet uses all natural ingredients without additives or preservatives.
Pet owner reviews are about what we would expect from their CBD quality. 4 / 5 stars from 175 reviews is better than some brands in our list, but we think a wider spectrum CBD would be more effective.
Label accuracy: 88%
Supportive cannabinoids: 4 / 7 (view Holistapet lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 150, 300, 600, 1200, 3000
Owner reviews: 4 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on orders over $50
10. Best isolate CBD oil for dogs
Medterra CBD for Pets
CBD isolates are made by removing all hemp compounds from an extract besides CBD. This leaves an oil that’s highly predictable and easy to dose – though 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 amount of positive customer feedback.
They also infuse organic flavorings into their oil, with beef and chicken versions, to help administer the oil to picky pups.
When shopping from Medterra’s website, customers can enjoy free shipping on orders over $49, and a 15% discount when they use our promo code, COFD.
Label accuracy: 95%
Supportive cannabinoids: 1 / 7 (view Medterra CBD Pet Oil lab report)
CBD sizes (mg): 150, 300, 750, 1200
Owner reviews: 4.3 / 5
Shopping perks: Free shipping on order over $75, subscribe for 30% off
CBD basics
What is CBD oil?
CBD (cannabidiol) oil is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids, and is most popular for its potential health benefits in both humans and animals. Although research on the use of CBD oil for dogs is still limited, anecdotal evidence and some studies suggest it helps with various issues such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, and seizures.
How does CBD oil work for dogs? The endocannabinoid system
CBD oil is believed to work in dogs by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a cell-signaling system in dogs, and in all mammals, that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall balance and homeostasis in the body. It is composed of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes that work together to regulate various physiological processes such as pain sensation, immune response, and mood.
CBD doesn’t bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors like other cannabinoids, such as THC. Instead, it acts as an indirect antagonist. This means that CBD may help prevent overstimulation of the receptors and maintain a balanced ECS.
CBD also supports the production of our body’s endocannabinoids, like anandamide. By inhibiting the enzymes that break down these compounds, CBD allows them to stay in the body longer and have a more significant effect. This helps to enhance the ECS’s ability to regulate various functions, such as pain, mood, and sleep.
In summary, CBD helps the endocannabinoid system do its job better by promoting a balanced state, supporting the production of endocannabinoids, and interacting with other receptors that influence your dog’s well-being.
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?
While both products are made from the same plant, hemp oil is made from hemp seeds, which contain no CBD or therapeutic properties, while CBD is sourced from the entire hemp plant, containing therapeutic cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, CBN, etc.
These cannabinoids are the anti-inflammatory ingredients that make CBD effective against canine disorders.
Hemp oils, on the other hand, are full of healthy polyunsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamins A, C, and E, but do not contain CBD or therapeutic cannabinoids.
To capitalize on the popularity of CBD products, many retailers have started selling hemp oils for humans and dogs, so always read product labels and packaging carefully to check whether an oil actually contains CBD.
What’s the difference between full-spectrum and isolate CBD oil?
One of the confusing things about CBD oils is that they often contain other cannabis compounds, called cannabinoids, besides CBD itself.
Most experts agree that the best CBD oils for dogs contain a range of cannabinoids alongside CBD. This helps dogs receive the full benefits of hemp.
To help describe how many different types of compound are contained in a CBD oil, brands often use the term ‘spectrum’.
- Full-spectrum CBD is an unprocessed, whole-plant extract. It contains CBD + all the cannabinoids found in the original plant.
Broad-spectrum CBD is a hemp extract that’s been processed to remove certain cannabis compounds, most notably THC. This is often done to comply with state laws.
- Isolate or pure-isolate CBD is a hemp extract that’s been extensively processed to produce a CBD powder, containing no other cannabis compounds.
We prefer full-spectrum CBD oils because they allow dogs to experience the full benefits of hemp. Complementary cannabis compounds like CBG, CBN, and CBD-V have been shown in clinical studies to possess their own soothing qualities, and can enhance CBD’s effectiveness thanks to something called the entourage effect.
The entourage effect says that cannabis compounds work synergistically, and are most effective when consumed in their natural form and ratios. When an oil contains a diverse range of cannabis compounds, dogs may feel more benefits than when supplementing with isolate CBD.
CBD brands put lots of time and effort into breeding hemp strains with a rich spectrum of cannabis compounds. As a result, two similar-looking full-spectrum CBD products may contain very different CBD extracts.
The best way to see exactly what’s inside a CBD extract is to read a product’s certificate of analysis, which is compiled by a third-party lab.
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.
Hemp seed oil
Is this carrier oil safe for dogs?
Yes
Does it have any additional benefits?
• High amounts of Omega fatty acids
• Anti-oxidizing and cholesterol inhibiting compounds
MCT / coconut oil
Is this carrier oil safe for dogs?
Yes
Does it have any additional benefits?
• Promotes fast absorption into the body
• Reduces fat storage and may speed up CBD effects
Grape seed oil
Is this carrier oil safe for dogs?
Yes
Does it have any additional benefits?
• Contains antioxidant compounds
Other plant oils
Is this carrier oil safe for dogs?
Yes
Does it have any additional benefits?
Depends on the specific oil
Which CBD extraction method is best?
To extract CBD and other cannabis compounds from hemp plants, manufacturers use one of three established methods: CO2 extraction, solvent extraction, or oil infusion.
Giving CBD to your dog
How do I give my dog CBD oil?
CBD oil is a versatile product. Most owners give their dog CBD oil by mixing it into their dog’s food, but there are also benefits to dropping it directly into dogs’ mouths or rubbing it into an affected area.
How much CBD should I give my dog? (dosages)
CBD dosages for dogs depends on (1) their size/weight, (2) their ailment being treated, and (3) their tolerance for CBD. As with any therapeutic supplement, it is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase.
With that being said, we recommend starting with a daily dose of 1 mg CBD per pound of your dog’s body weight, and gradually increase to 4 mg/lbs. (if needed). So, for a 20 pound pup, start with a 20 mg dose of CBD.
Dosages are also symptom/ailment dependent. Dogs suffering situational anxiety, for example, require less CBD than a dog suffering from more severe cancer or arthritic symptoms.
Scientific studies on CBD doses for dogs
- A study done on canine osteoarthritis found that dogs that were given 2 mg/kg CBD twice per day (approximately 1 mg/pound) for 4 weeks experienced significant reduction in pain and increased activity levels.
- Another study on dogs suffering seizures found that two daily doses of 2.5 mg/kg CBD (approximately 1.1 mg/pound) led to an 89% reduction in seizures compared to the placebo group.
While it’s best to start low, the good news is that it’s incredibly difficult (if not impossible) for dogs to overdose on CBD. Keep in mind to always use a reliable brand, and not to give your pup human CBD, as these can contain higher levels of THC unsuitable for dogs.
Here’s our full CBD dosage for dogs guide for more information.
How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?
CBD works differently for all dogs. Some owners have reported noticeable effects as soon as thirty minutes after a first dose, while others only seem to benefit after a week or more of daily supplementation.
Variances may be due to the quality of a CBD product, a dog’s individual condition, or genetic factors.
In general, three signs suggest CBD is beginning to improve a dog’s quality of life:
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.
CBD and canine healthcare
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.
Buying dog-specific CBD products
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?
In the USA, you can buy CBD oil for dogs at various places, both online and in physical stores. Some options are better than others, however, which are listed below:
- Online CBD retailers (Yes): There are many online shops that specialize in CBD products for pets, such as Honest Paws, Penelope’s Bloom, or Medterra, which offer a wide range of CBD products, including oils, treats, and topicals specifically designed for dogs. The advantages of buying directly from a brands website are (1) more knowledgeable sales support, (2) subscription services that offer a reoccurring discount on every order, (3) greater selection than physical stores, (4) some brands will offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee or your money back, and (5) the convenience of ordering from home.
- Pet supply stores (Limited): Many pet supply stores, such as Petco or PetSmart, carry CBD oil for dogs. You can find these products in the supplement or pet health section of the store, but they will only carry a fraction of the options that you can find from online brands directly.
- Local pet stores (Maybe): Some independent pet stores may also carry CBD oil for dogs. It’s a good idea to call ahead and ask if they have it in stock.
- Veterinarian clinics (Unlikely): While more vets are discussing CBD oil for dogs, they typically do not sell CBD. It’s best to ask your local veterinarian if they carry it, and/or if they carry the specific product you are looking for.
- Amazon (NO): Amazon bans the sale of CBD oil for both humans and animals on its marketplace, as outline in its Seller rules and guidelines. This doesn’t stop huge numbers of sellers from attempting to do so anyway—a simple search for ‘CBD’ brings up thousands of results. Most of these don’t actually include CBD, or hide unknown quantities of CBD in products labeled as ‘Hemp oil’ or ‘anxiety oil.’
Using these products on your dog is not recommended. While it’s possible that you will end up with a genuine CBD product, the black market nature of Amazon’s CBD marketplace makes it hard, if not impossible to tell where these products are from and how they’re made.
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:
Related: CBD oil for dogs with specific inflammatory issues –
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