Best CBD for Dogs with Arthritis
Updated: March 4th, 2024
We looked at over 40 CBD oils from big brands, checking important things like lab results, where the hemp comes from, how safe it is, and what other dog owners say.
This time, we focused on CBD for dogs with arthritis, looking at ingredients proven to help with joint pain and easing dogs ability to move.
Let’s go through what we found, so you can pick the best CBD oil or treat for your dog with arthritis, easily and confidently.
Top 5 CBD Oils for Dogs with Arthritis in 2024
Best CBD Oil for Dogs with Arthritis
Arthritis Effectiveness: 9.7 / 10
- Cannabinoid Diversity: CBC | CBDa | CBDV | CBG | CBN | Δ9-THC
- Cannabinoid Density: + 13%
- CBD Concentration: 110%
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients: Organic Turmeric
Transparency Score: 9.6 / 10
- Hemp Source: Colorado
- Growing Practices: USDA Certified Organic
- Safety Testing: Pass
- Lab Report Recency: July 2023
Reputation Score: 9.9 / 10
- Review Rating: 4.9 / 5
- # of Reviews: 593
- Money-back-guarantee: 30 days
What Stands Out
Honest Paws Mobility Oil is our top pick as the best CBD oil for dogs with arthritis for its naturally derived profile of cannabinoids that target inflammation effectively.
It has more supportive cannabinoids than any on this list, including CBD, THC, CBG and CBC – all of which have shown in studies to reduce pain and inflammation in arthritic dogs.
With hundreds of positive testimonials behind Honest Paws Mobility, it has the anecdotal evidence also backing it up.
Beyond its CBD, Mobility Oil contains organic turmeric extract, rich in curcuminoids, for further anti-inflammatory support.
Our experience with Honest Paws Mobility Oil was very positive, thanks to the oil’s smoothness and ease of consumption.
The cost for its smallest concentration is high, with the Mobility Oil priced at $0.34 per mg of CBD for the 125 mg bottle. However, the value improves significantly with larger sizes.
The 1000 mg option, priced at just $0.10 per mg of CBD, is one of the most cost-effective choices on our list. For owners considering long-term CBD use for their dog’s arthritis or chronic pain, the 1000 mg bottle is recommended due to its better price point and long shelf life, ensuring that even the smallest doses will not go to waste over time.
With its highest-quality CBD and backing of so many dog owner testimonials, coupled with the brand’s 30 day money-back-guarantee, Honest Paws Mobility offers your dog the best chance of improvement without any risk.
If after reviewing the next 4 choices listed here you decide on Honest Paws Mobility Oil, take advantage of our coupon code COFD (or use this link) for 20% off your first purchase.
2nd Best CBD Oil for Dogs with Arthritis
Arthritis Effectiveness: 9.5 / 10
- Cannabinoid Diversity: CBC | CBDa | CBDV | CBG | Δ9-THC
- Cannabinoid Density: +11%
- CBD Concentration: 98%
- Therapeutic ingredients: no
Transparency Score: 8.1 / 10
- Hemp Source: Colorado
- Growing Practices: Organic
- Safety Testing: Pass
- Lab Report Recency: July 2022
Reputation Score: 8 / 10*
- Review Rating: NA
- # of Reviews: NA
- Money-back-guarantee: $75+
* this score was influenced by a successful study published on CBD and canine arthritis, using HempMy Pet Extracts
What stands out
HempMy Pet secures the runner-up position in our list thanks to its impressive cannabinoid profile, and significant research contributions to CBD for canine arthritis.
A standout feature of HempMy Pet is its involvement in one of the more notable studies on the effects of CBD oil on dogs with osteoarthritis. This study showcased remarkable results. Among the dogs that completed the study, 30 of the 32 experienced notable reductions in pain. Such a successful study underscores the potential benefits of HempMy Pet, and other cannabinoid-rich CBD oils, for dogs suffering from arthritis.
While HempMy Pet has good research to back it up, it’s our second choice behind Honest Paws for a few reasons. First, we found no reviews from dog owners outside of this study, compared to hundreds of positive, unbiased testimonials for Honest Paws.
Also, HempMy Pet doesn’t share in-depth safety test results for their hemp extract in its COA. Given the propensity of CBD to contain harmful toxins, like heavy metals or pesticides, this may steer you in another direction.
The last concern we have with HempMy Pet is its use of unflavored hemp seed carrier oil. This makes for a strong, bitter taste that your dog may fuss about. While MCT carrier oils may not provide the same nutrients, they make for a much smoother and milder tasting carrier oil. As CBD extract is already a bitter taste, we generally recommend opting for MCT.
Nonetheless, as a research-backed, cannabinoid-rich CBD oil, HempMy Pet Hemp Extract is a credible choice for dog owners dedicated to help ease the pain and mobility struggles that come from canine arthritis.
3rd Best CBD Oil for Dogs with Arthritis
Arthritis Effectiveness: 8.8 / 10
- Cannabinoid Diversity: CBC | CBDV | CBG | Δ9-THC
- Cannabinoid Density: +10%
- CBD Concentration: 103%
- Therapeutic ingredients: no
Transparency Score: 9.2 / 10
- Hemp Source: USA (state not specified)
- Growing Practices: USDA Organic
- Safety Testing: Pass
- Lab Report Recency: October 2023
Reputation Score: 9.5 / 10
- Review Rating: 4.7 / 5
- # of Reviews: 266
- Money-back-guarantee: 30 days
What stands out
Pet Releaf’s Daily Releaf shines with its quality full-spectrum CBD oil, which is extracted from USDA organic hemp. Our experience with the 200mg tincture highlighted its exceptionally smooth taste, which can be attributed to the natural CO2 extraction method and the choice of MCT carrier oil.
We have this CBD oil ranked third as it offers a lower range and levels of cannabinoids found in our top two selections.
It does, however, stand out for its affordability in lower concentrations. For instance, when comparing the 500mg option, Pet Releaf’s Daily Releaf is priced at $70, making it a more budget-friendly choice compared to the $85 price tag of our top pick, Honest Paws Mobility Oil.
While not as rich in anti-inflammatory cannabinoids as the first two on this list, Pet Releaf’s NASC quality seal and positive testimonials make Daily Releaf a trustworthy CBD oil to support dogs with arthritis.
We placed an order for the Daily Releaf oil with express shipping on Friday, February 9th, 2024, and received it within 2 business days. The box included the ingredient list, dosing instructions, and a QR code linking to its COA. The COA for our batch (Lot: 0723T213) was up to date and consistent with our findings from Pet Releaf’s website.
*Note: While the brand also offers a Hip & Joint Releaf and an Ultra Releaf Liposomes oil, lab reports from both of these oils showed far fewer, and lower levels, of supportive cannabinoids.
Best Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Arthritis Effectiveness: 7 / 10
- Cannabinoid Diversity: CBC | CBDV | CBG
- Cannabinoid Density: + 6%
- CBD Concentration: 105%
- Therapeutic ingredients: no
Transparency Score: 9.6 / 10
- Hemp Source: Wisconsin
- Growing Practices: Organic
- Safety Testing: Pass
- Lab Report Recency: December 2023
Reputation Score: 8.3 / 10
- Review Rating: 4.9 / 5
- # of Reviews: 76
- Money-back-guarantee: No (only if unopened)
What stands out
Batch CBD Pet Tincture stands out as our fourth-best CBD oil for dogs with arthritis, offering a broad spectrum formula. This means it includes more cannabinoids than just CBD, but no THC. Trace amounts of THC, however, play a crucial role in maximizing CBD’s effectiveness against inflammation.
Batch’s CBD pet oil does still contain other impactful cannabinoids like CBG and CBC known for their anti-inflammatory benefits.
Batch is also unique with its ethanol extraction method, which differs from the CO2 extraction most brands use. This method is cost-effective, with savings passed on to customers, and can preserve more cannabinoids and terpenes.
When we examined the lab report, though, the presence of terpenes were not tested for, and it contained fewer cannabinoids than our top 3 picks. This likely happened during the THC-removal phase, which undergoes further processing.
While Batch CBD Pet Tincture doesn’t match the cannabinoid variety or concentration of the full spectrum oils that rank higher, it offers valuable anti-inflammatory cannabinoids and is a slightly more cost effective option for owners firmly opposed to trace amounts of THC.
Note: Concerns around ethanol’s potential to leave unwanted residual solvents are valid. However, this is more often the case with less transparent brands. With Batch’s rigorous safety testing and long-standing history of expertise, we have never found such residual solvents in their products.
Best CBD Dog Treat for Arthritis
Arthritis Effectiveness: 8.8 / 10
- Cannabinoid Diversity: CBC | CBG | CBN | Δ9-THC
- Cannabinoid Density: + 19%
- CBD Concentration: 109%
- Therapeutic ingredients: yes, several
Transparency Score: 6.9 / 10
- Hemp Source: Oregon & Colorado
- Growing Practices: USDA Organic
- Safety Testing: Incomplete
- Lab Report Recency: August 2022
Reputation Score: 9.8 / 10
- Review Rating: 4.8 / 5
- # of Reviews: 467
- Money-back-guarantee: 30 days
What stands out
Innovet’s Advanced Mobility Chews are our pick for the best CBD dog treats for arthritis. What sets them apart is their notable their range of anti-inflammatory cannabinoids, more than any CBD dog treats we evaluated. These full-spectrum soft chews are packed with CBD, THC, CBG, CBC, and CBN.
Beyond their impressive cannabinoid content, these chews are also loaded with additional supplements aimed at supporting dogs with arthritis and mobility issues.
These include 500mg of glucosamine, 400mg of MSM, 300mg of hemp seed powder, 250mg of green-lipped mussel, 200mg of chondroitin sulfate, 120mg of wild Alaskan salmon oil, 75mg of Vitamin C, 50mg of Vitamin E, and 5mg of hyaluronic acid, many of which are known to benefit joint health.
We placed an order for these Mobility Chews on February 5th, 2024, with express shipping, and received them within three days. Opening the package, we first noticed a strong salmon scent, reflecting salmon as the primary ingredient. The package contained 90 chews, that had a fresh smell and appearance, with a “best by” date of October 19th, 2025.
However, we have some concerns about the transparency of their lab reports:
The QR code on the container led us to a general Certificate of Analysis page on Innovet’s website, but our specific lab report wasn’t posted (for LOT#: 101923). Instead, the most recent lab report available was from August 2022.
This lab report was incomplete, missing the page on heavy metals testing. Although the summary page indicated a “Pass,” the absence of detailed results is something we’re looking into, as we’ve seen other products “pass” yet hover near action levels for heavy metals. We’ll update our review with more information as it becomes available.
Despite these concerns, Innovet’s Advanced Mobility Chews stand out as an effective option for dogs with arthritis or joint pain, thanks to their comprehensive range of cannabinoids and targeted supplements. These chews represent a potent choice among less effective options available on the market.
What size CBD oil should I buy?
For pet owners, selecting the right size of CBD oil is important to cater to your dog’s specific needs, especially when managing arthritis. Since CBD dosages are influenced by the dog’s weight, larger dogs will generally require more CBD oil than smaller ones. Dogs with chronic arthritis may need higher doses regularly, unlike those with occasional discomfort who may benefit from CBD use on an as-needed basis.
For owners of larger breeds or dogs with ongoing arthritis symptoms, choosing CBD oils with a higher concentration might be more economical in the long run. These products, though more costly upfront, can offer greater savings over time due to a lower cost per mg of CBD, making them a cost-effective option for continuous use.
CBD oil versus CBD treats for dogs with arthritis:
CBD oils are often recommended over treats for managing arthritis for a couple of reasons.
First, the bioavailability of CBD is significantly increased when consumed with high-fat foods, which can be crucial for alleviating arthritis symptoms effectively.
Second, oils offer more dosage flexibility, allowing pet owners to accurately adjust the amount of CBD according to their dog’s specific needs and preferences, whether it’s mixed into meals or given directly.
CBD treats do have some advantages, particularly for ease of use and masking the hemp taste, which might be preferable for some dogs. We recommend using CBD dog treats to compliment your dog’s CBD oil regimen.
Where to buy CBD oil for dogs with arthritis in the USA:
When looking for CBD oil for dogs with arthritis, consider these options:
- Online CBD Retailers (Most Recommended): Purchasing directly from a brand’s website can offer advantages like access to expert advice, subscription discounts, a wider product range than in physical stores, satisfaction guarantees, and the convenience of home shopping.
- Pet Supply Stores (Somewhat Recommended): Major chains may carry CBD oil in their supplement aisles, but the selection might be limited.
- Local Pet Stores (Possibly): Some independent stores might stock CBD oil; it’s best to call ahead to check.
- Veterinarian Clinics (Rarely): While more vets are recognizing CBD’s potential, they typically don’t sell it directly. Still, they can offer valuable guidance and product suggestions.
- Amazon (Not Recommended): Amazon’s policy prohibits selling CBD, and products listed as ‘Hemp oil’ can be misleading, lacking in CBD content or quality. Prioritize vendors that provide clear product information.
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum vs. Isolate CBD for dogs with arthritis:
- Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids, including a trace amount of THC, offering the full benefits of the hemp plant. This is the most recommended type of CBD for canine arthritis.
- Broad-spectrum CBD removes THC but retains other cannabinoids, preserving some of the plant’s benefits without THC. Not as recommended for dogs with arthritis, as the most successful studies on CBD for dogs with arthritis or pain were done using full-spectrum CBD.
- Isolate CBD is pure CBD, which has undergone intense processing to remove all other cannabinoids. Not recommended for dogs with pain, as this is the least effective type of CBD.
Understanding the types of CBD oil can help you make an informed decision for your dog’s arthritis treatment. Full-spectrum CBD oils are generally preferred for their “entourage effect,” where the combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids work together more effectively than CBD alone.
This synergy is believed to enhance the therapeutic effects, similar to the benefits of consuming whole foods over isolated nutrients.
To ensure you’re getting a high-quality product, review the third-party lab certificate of analysis for any CBD oil you consider. This will confirm the exact contents, helping you choose the best option for managing your dog’s arthritis.
Study summary: The Use of Cannabidiol-Rich Hemp Oil Extract to Treat Canine Osteoarthritis-Related Pain
What happened
Researchers at Colorado State University examined CBD versus NSAIDs for reducing pain caused by osteoarthritis in dogs.
- Instead of giving 37 dogs their usual treatment of NSAIDs, they gave them a twice-daily dose of full-spectrum CBD oil (in various amounts between 0.3 and 4.12 mg/kg) for 90 days. A vet examined each dog before CBD treatment began, and then every two weeks throughout the study.
- 30 of the 32 dogs that completed the study showed reduced pain. CBD was so effective for 21 of the dogs, they were able to stop or reduce their dose of gabapentin, which they were also taking for their arthritis.
Study summary: Pharmacokinetics, safety, and clinical efficacy of cannabidiol treatment in osteoarthritic dogs
What happened
This study, published in July 2018 in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, wanted to examine the safety and efficacy of full-spectrum CBD oil, using 16 dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis at Cornell University Hospital for Animals.
- Treatment plans included either 2 mg/kg of full-spectrum CBD, or a placebo oil, every twelve hours for four weeks. Veterinary assessment and owner questionnaires were completed before, after, and halfway through the treatment.
- When the dogs were given CBD oil, they experienced less pain and became more active.
- The study found that dogs experienced no unwanted side effects and CBD’s effects lasted about four hours at both doses.
- When taking CBD, dogs showed higher levels of alkaline phosphatase, which is an enzyme associated with increased liver activity.
- The study concluded that “2 mg/kg of CBD twice daily can help increase comfort and activity in dogs with OA.”
Canine Brief Pain Inventory (Pain and Activity questions) and Hudson Scale mean and standard deviation; lameness, weight-bearing and pain scores median and ranges at each time for cannabidiol (CBD) and placebo oils
Disclaimer:
When products are purchased through our site, we may receive a commission. Always check manufacturer websites for the most up-to-date information. All our product recommendations are based on our experts’ opinions and thorough consumer research, including our list of best CBD oils for dogs in 2024.