Will CBD Help My Dog Calm Down?

You want to help your dog feel better, but you also want to avoid harsh chemicals or drugs. That's where CBD oil comes in. CBD is a natural option that comes from the hemp plant, part of the cannabis plant family. 

Dogs with anxiety often show a more pronounced stress response. CBD may help lower several stress-related measures and help your dog cope better with either the separation event or other tough situations.

CBD Product Options for Dogs

Dog CBD comes in many forms, making it easy to find what works best for your pet. Let's look at the different ways you can give CBD to your dog:

CBD Oil for Dogs

CBD oil for dogs is perhaps the most popular and versatile option for administering CBD to your dog. It comes in a bottle with a dropper, making it easy to measure and adjust doses. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains more plant compounds. It may work better than regular CBD oil for dogs.

When using CBD oil, you have several options for giving it to your furry friend. You can place the drops directly into your dog's mouth, allowing quick absorption through the mucous membranes. If your dog isn't fond of the taste, you can mix the oil into their food or treats. Some pet owners even drizzle it over their dog's favorite chew toy.

One advantage of high-quality CBD oil is its flexibility in dosing. You can easily increase or decrease the amount given, allowing you to find the perfect dose for your dog. It's also fast-acting, especially when given directly in the mouth, so you might see effects relatively quickly.

Calming CBD Oil for Dogs

Shop Now

CBD Capsules for Dogs

If you're looking for a no-fuss option with precise dosing, CBD capsules might be the way to go. These come in pre-measured doses, eliminating the need for measuring oil or counting treats. Capsules are especially convenient if you're already giving your dog other pills or supplements.

To administer CBD capsules for dogs, you can hide them in your dog's food or a treat like peanut butter. Some dogs will even take them directly if they're used to taking pills. The capsules are tasteless, which is a plus if your dog doesn't like the flavor of CBD oil.

The main advantage of capsules is their consistency. Each capsule contains the same amount of CBD, so you know precisely how much your dog is getting every time. They're also easy to store and travel with, making them a convenient option for busy pet owners.

CBD Dog Treats

For many dogs, CBD dog treats are the most enjoyable way to consume dog CBD. These come in various flavors and textures, designed to appeal to your dog's taste buds. From crunchy biscuits to soft chews, you're likely to find an option your dog will love.

Giving CBD dog treats makes an excellent choice for dogs who are picky about taking supplements. The treats are also portable, making them convenient for on-the-go use.

CBD dog treats often contain additional beneficial ingredients like glucosamine for joint health or chamomile for extra calming effects. This allows you to address multiple health concerns with a single product.

CBD Topicals for Dogs

While not as common as ingestible options, CBD topicals for dogs can be beneficial for specific issues. These products come in the form of balms, creams, or sprays that you apply directly to your dog's skin.

CBD topicals for dogs are primarily used for localized issues like skin irritations, hot spots, or joint pain. They allow you to target specific areas of discomfort. For example, you might apply a CBD balm to your dog's paws if they're sore from walking on hot pavement.

These products are easy to use and don't require your dog to ingest anything. This makes them a good option for dogs who resist taking supplements orally. They're also less likely to interact with any medications your dog might be taking internally.

CBD-Infused Peanut Butter for Dogs

For dogs who love peanut butter (and let's face it, that's most dogs), CBD-infused peanut butter can be a dream come true. This product combines the benefits of CBD with the irresistible taste of peanut butter.

Administering this product is as easy as giving your dog a spoonful of regular peanut butter. You can also use it to stuff Kong toys or spread it on other treats. The familiar taste of peanut butter can help mask the earthy flavor of CBD, making it more palatable for picky dogs.

CBD peanut butter for dogs is a great option for consistent dosing, as each serving typically contains a set amount of CBD. It's also a fun way to give your dog CBD, turning supplement time into treat time.

CBD Soft Chews

Similar to treats, CBD soft chews are designed to be a tasty way for your dog to consume CBD. However, they often have a higher concentration of CBD compared to regular treats, making them more suitable for therapeutic use.

Soft chews are easy for most dogs to eat, even those with dental issues. They often come in flavors like chicken or beef, making them appealing to dogs. Many soft chews also include additional supplements like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids for added health benefits.

CBD soft chews for dogs are convenient for travel and easy to store. They also provide consistent dosing, as each chew contains a specific amount of CBD.

CBD Pellets for Dogs

CBD pellets are small, dry kibble-like pieces infused with CBD. They're designed to be mixed into your dog's regular food or given as a small snack.

The advantage of CBD pellets for dogs is that they're easy to measure and mix into food without changing its texture significantly. This can be helpful for dogs who are sensitive to changes in their food. Pellets also have a long shelf life and are easy to store.

CBD Tinctures for Dogs

While similar to CBD oil, tinctures are typically more concentrated and may contain additional herbs or supplements. They're administered using a dropper, much like CBD oil.

CBD tinctures for dogs can be a potent option for dogs needing higher doses of CBD. They're also customizable, with many companies offering tinctures tailored for specific issues like anxiety or joint health.

On how much CBD should you give your dog, start with a low dose and gradually increase it while monitoring your dog's response. Consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD products.

Benefits of CBD Products for Dogs

Many dog owners are turning to CBD oil for their pets. It might help with dog anxiety and other issues. But is CBD oil safe for dogs?

Dog CBD is often safe for healthy dogs when used correctly. Let's look at how the best CBD oil might benefit your furry friend.

Issues with Stress

CBD might help take the edge off when your dog faces stressful situations. For shelter dogs with high anxiety, CBD oil might help calm them down, thus, making them easier to adopt. It works by interacting with the body's stress response system, possibly lowering cortisol levels; the hormone responsible for the 'fight or flight' feeling.

Anxiety Support

Anxiety in dogs can manifest in many ways, from excessive barking to destructive behavior. CBD oil might offer a natural way to help manage these symptoms. It could work by boosting serotonin levels in the brain, much like some anti-anxiety medications do, but without the harsh side effects. You could notice less pacing, fewer accidents in the house, and an overall calmer demeanor.

Support with Physical Discomfort

Dogs, especially as they age, often deal with chronic pain from conditions like arthritis. CBD has shown promise in reducing inflammation, which is a key factor in pain. By interacting with pain receptors in the brain and nervous system, CBD might help your dog feel more comfortable.

Could Support Seizures in Dogs

For dogs with epilepsy, CBD could be a game-changer. Some studies have shown that CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs. While it's not a replacement for prescribed medications, CBD might work alongside them to provide better seizure control.

Appetite Improvements

If your dog is a picky eater or loses appetite due to illness or medication, CBD might help. It can stimulate appetite by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating hunger. You might find your dog showing more interest in food and maintaining a healthier weight.

Feelings of Nausea

Dogs can experience nausea for various reasons, from motion sickness to side effects of medications. CBD has antiemetic properties, meaning it could help reduce feelings of nausea and prevent vomiting.

Skin and Coat Health

CBD's anti-inflammatory properties extend to the skin. If your dog suffers from allergies or skin irritations, CBD might help reduce itching and promote healthier skin. Some CBD products are designed to be applied topically, which could provide targeted relief. You might notice less scratching, fewer hot spots, and a shinier, healthier coat.

Heart Health Support

Emerging research suggests that CBD might have benefits for heart health. It could help regulate blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system. This could be promising for dogs at risk of heart issues.

Cognitive Support

As dogs age, they can experience cognitive decline, similar to dementia in humans. CBD's neuroprotective properties might help support brain health and cognitive function in older dogs. It could potentially reduce inflammation in the brain and promote the growth of new brain cells. You might notice your senior dog staying more alert, responsive, and engaged in daily activities.

As you explore the potential benefits of CBD for your dog, pay attention to any changes in their behavior or well-being. Keep a journal to track improvements or any side effects. This information can be valuable for you and your vet in determining the right approach for your dog's specific needs.

Choosing the Right Dog CBD Product

When you're looking for the best CBD product for your dog, there's a lot to think about. It's not just about picking up any bottle off the shelf. You want to be sure you're getting a CBD product that's safe, effective, and right for your furry friend.

Factors to Consider

First, think about why you're considering CBD for your dog. Are you trying to help with anxiety? Pain relief? Or maybe you're looking for general wellness support? Different products might be better suited for different needs. For example, if you're dealing with skin issues, a topical CBD cream might be more helpful than oil.

Next, consider your dog's size and weight. CBD dosage often depends on how big your dog is. A tiny Chihuahua will need much less CBD than a large Great Dane. Look for products that offer dosing guidelines based on weight.

Think about your dog's preferences too. Some dogs don't mind the taste of CBD oil, while others might turn their nose up at it. If your pup is picky, you might want to try flavored oils or CBD-infused treats instead.

Your lifestyle matters as well. If you're always on the go, you might prefer the convenience of pre-measured CBD capsules or treats. If you like having more control over the dose, an oil with a dropper might be better.

Reading Labels

Once you start looking at CBD products, you'll notice there's a lot of information on the labels. Understanding what to look for can help you make the best choice for your dog.

First, check the CBD content. This should be clearly stated, usually in milligrams (mg). Be sure you're looking at the total CBD per bottle and serving. Some products might seem cheaper, but they could have less CBD per dose.

Look for information about the type of CBD used. Is it full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate? This should be clearly stated on the label.

Check the ingredients list. Ideally, you want to see simple, natural ingredients. Be wary of products with lots of additives or artificial flavors. If your dog has any allergies or sensitivities, double-check that none of those ingredients are present.

The label should also tell you how the CBD was extracted. CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard because it doesn't leave behind any harmful residues.

Certificates of Analysis

Now, let's talk about Certificates of Analysis (COAs). These are lab reports that show exactly what's in the product. Any reputable CBD company should provide these, either on their website or upon request.

When you look at a COA, check for a few key things. First, does the CBD content match what's on the label? The COA should confirm the amount of CBD in the product.

Next, look for the THC content. For legal reasons, and to be safe for your dog, this should be less than 0.3%.

The COA should also show test results for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants. You want to see "ND" (Not Detected) or "< LOQ" (Less than Limit of Quantitation) for these.

Don't be afraid to ask questions if anything on the label or COA is unclear. A good company will be happy to explain its CBD products to you.

Will CBD help my dog calm down? It might. Dog owners often report positive results. CBD could help dogs cope with anxiety and stress. But it's not a magic fix. Talk to your vet before trying it.

References

1. Patikorn, C., Nerapusee, O., Soontornvipart, K., Lawonyawut, K., Musikpodok, K., Waleethanaphan, K., & Anantachoti, P. (2023). Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal intervention studies. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1248417.

2. Tittle, D., Wakshlag, J., Schwark, W., Lyubimov, A., Zakharov, A., & Gomez, B. (2022). Twenty-Four Hour and One-Week Steady State Pharmacokinetics of Cannabinoids in Two Formulations of Cannabidiol and Cannabidiolic Acid Rich Hemp in Dogs. Medical Research Archives. https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v10i7.2907.

3. Morris, E., Kitts-Morgan, S., Spangler, D., Gebert, J., Vanzant, E., McLeod, K., & Harmon, D. (2021). Feeding Cannabidiol (CBD)-Containing Treats Did Not Affect Canine Daily Voluntary Activity. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.645667.

4. Scholfield, C., Waranuch, N., & Kongkaew, C. (2022). Systematic Review on Transdermal/Topical Cannabidiol Trials: A Reconsidered Way Forward.. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0154.

5. Wakshlag, J. J., Schwark, W. S., Deabold, K. A., Talsma, B. N., Cital, S., Lyubimov, A., ... & Zakharov, A. (2020). Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol, cannabidiolic acid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and related metabolites in canine serum after dosing with three oral forms of hemp extract. Frontiers in veterinary science, 7, 505.

6. Draeger, A. L., Hoffman, L. K., Godwin, P. R., Davis, A. J., & Porr, S. A. (2021). Pharmacokinetics of a single feeding of pelleted cannabidiol in horses. Steeplechase: An ORCA Student Journal, 4(2), 1.

7. Kogan, L., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., Hellyer, P., & Rishniw, M. (2019). US veterinarians' knowledge, experience, and perception regarding the use of cannabidiol for canine medical conditions. Frontiers in veterinary science, 5, 429875.

8. Evans, J. (2020). The Ultimate Guide To CBD: Explore The World Of Cannabidiol. Fair Winds Press.

9. Hunt, A., Flint, H., Logan, D., & King, T. (2023). A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1112604.

10. Corsetti, S., Borruso, S., Malandrucco, L., Spallucci, V., Maragliano, L., Perino, R., D’Agostino, P., & Natoli, E. (2021). Cannabis sativa L. may reduce aggressive behaviour towards humans in shelter dogs. Scientific Reports, 11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-82439-2.

11. Kogan, L., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., Hellyer, P., & Rishniw, M. (2019). US Veterinarians' Knowledge, Experience, and Perception Regarding the Use of Cannabidiol for Canine Medical Conditions. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2018.00338.

12. Yu, C., & Rupasinghe, H. (2021). Cannabidiol-based natural health products for companion animals: Recent advances in the management of anxiety, pain, and inflammation.. Research in veterinary science, 140, 38-46 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.08.001.

13. García, G., Kube, S., Carrera-Justiz, S., Tittle, D., & Wakshlag, J. (2022). Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966.

14. Campora, L., Miragliotta, V., Ricci, E., Cristino, L., Di Marzo, V., Albanese, F., ... & Abramo, F. (2012). Cannabinoid receptor type 1 and 2 expression in the skin of healthy dogs and dogs with atopic dermatitis. American journal of veterinary research, 73(7), 988-995.

15. Corsato Alvarenga, I., Wilson, K. M., & McGrath, S. (2024). Tolerability of long‐term cannabidiol supplementation to healthy adult dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 38(1), 326-335.

16. Wakshlag, J. J., Cital, S., Eaton, S. J., Prussin, R., & Hudalla, C. (2020). Cannabinoid, terpene, and heavy metal analysis of 29 over-the-counter commercial veterinary hemp supplements. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports, 45-55.

17. Certificate of Analysis | ACS Laboratory. (2022). Acslab.com. https://www.acslab.com/certificate-of-analysis