CBD was once considered a trend in pet wellness, but it has lasted nearly a decade with growing research to back up its potential for canine health. It's still a relatively new concept for many people, though, begging the question - "what are the key things to know if you're considering CBD for your dog?"
Lolahemp staff pulls from 7 years of industry experience and available research along with the support of Doctors of Veterinary Medicine Helena Randles & Lianne McCleod, Vet Tech Crystal Litzenberger, manufacturing experts, holistic hemp farmers, and thousands of customer reports.
Here's the Short Version: Research has found that CBD is considered "generally safe" for dogs who are otherwise healthy and aren't on existing medications. If your dog is on medications, it's important to discuss CBD with your veterinarian because there could be interactions. For dogs that take CBD to address mobility and emotional issues, there is potential for success when the product is administered properly, sourced from a reputable manufacturer, and given at the recommended dosages.
What is CBD, and How Can It Help a Dog?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound that grows naturally in the hemp plant. CBD is not the compound in cannabis that produces a psychoactive effect, so it will not get your dog high. CBD engages with a dog's endocannabinoid system which is thought to play a role in comfort, mobility, mood, sleep, appetite, and immune health. The dominant understanding is that CBD can encourage the endocannabinoid system to promote balance, potentially leading to the visible results and changes to quality of life.
There are three primary types of CBD products.
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Full-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum CBD is an extract taken from hemp and minimally processed in order to maintain the presence of all other cannabinoids found naturally in the plant. Full-spectrum CBD is still very distinct from marijuana, as hemp cannot legally contain significant amounts of THC, marijuana's psychoactive component. Because full-spectrum CBD has a variety of cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC, the overall effect is believed to be more significant.
- Broad-Spectrum CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD, except that it is processed more heavily to exclude THC altogether. The effects may be diminished, but broad-spectrum options can be good for dogs who may be more sensitive, or allergic to THC.
- CBD Isolate: CBD isolate is a more highly processed extract that excludes all cannabinoids and compounds apart from CBD. These products can be effective, but may lose the benefits of hemps additional compounds which also work with the endocannabinoid system.
How Safe is It to Give My Dog CBD?
Thousands upon thousands of pet parents have given their dogs CBD with great success and few reports of serious adverse health effects. Some negative symptoms such as drowsiness or upset stomach can come when a dog is given too much CBD, and a few dogs may experience these side effects at smaller doses as well.
CBD products made for humans are not safe for dogs, especially those containing human doses of THC. THC is toxic to dogs at high levels, and CBD products made for humans often contain THC among other ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
CBD products formulated for dogs are generally very safe, but it's important to discuss them with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has pre-existing health issues, is on medications, or if the product contains a variety of additional ingredients apart from CBD.
What is CBD Most Commonly Used for in Dogs?
The majority of dog owners use CBD to address their dogs' joint discomfort and mobility concerns. Research (listed below) and customer reports suggest that regular use of CBD products for dogs may support some dogs with mobility issues.
Many owners report results within days or weeks, and other lasting results can show over a period of months. Not all dogs respond with benefits, but many do.
The second-most popular use of CBD for dogs is to encourage calm during difficult moments, or even throughout daily life. Heightened and restless dogs may see a shift in temperament, while dogs afraid of certain situations (e.g. thunderstorms, strangers, fireworks) have also been reported to show improvements.
Other applications also exist, but are less common. Early research into CBD's influence on dogs with seizures is still ongoing, as is CBD's potential influence on topical skin issues. It's important to note that all research on CBD for dogs is still ongoing, and more understanding is needed to give confident claims about the benefits of these products for any issues that dogs might face.
Choosing a Dog CBD Product
CBD products for dogs come in two primary forms: oils and chews.
CBD oils for dogs typically include a raw extract, carrier oil, and the occasional added ingredient intended for a specific purpose. For example, some CBD oils for dogs have turmeric in them to encourage greater mobility benefits.
Chews are similar, but they're formulated in a treat-sized shape and include additional ingredients for flavor, texture, and benefit.
Oils tend to be most effective because they enter directly into the bloodstream via blood vessels in the mouth, while chews are easier to administer and can be a reliable method of daily support.
In both cases, it's important to consider the amount of CBD in the product in relation to your dog's size. The rule of thumb is 1mg of CBD per 10lbs of a dog's weight, twice daily. So, a 20lb dog would take 2mg in the morning, and 2mg at night to start.
Conclusion: Is It The Right Choice?
CBD is commonly used as a supplement in dogs' routines, especially if they're facing light to moderate emotional or mobility challenges. It is not a cure-all, but it can support dogs in ways that meaningfully influence their quality of life.
It's important to talk with a vet and find a reputable seller as well. Never give your dog CBD made for humans, and always follow a manufacturer's recommended dosage guidelines. If you've got more questions, Lolahemp has been an industry leader for over 7 years and is here to help.
Give us a call or email us and we'd be happy to help you with whatever you need to know!
Ready to compare options? Look for organic, third-party tested, full-spectrum hemp oil for the broadest, most natural profile—then tailor the format (oil vs. chews) to your dog and your routine.
