If you're using CBD oil for your dog's wellness, it's important to keep dosage and dosage frequency in mind. Too much CBD can contribute to drowsiness or upset stomach in some cases, but how does daily CBD affect dogs?
Is it safe to give your dog CBD every day? This article takes a look at the available research into dogs taking CBD, the benefits of daily use, and the potential risks. Let's get started.
Is It Safe to Give Dogs Daily CBD?
Bottom line: For most healthy dogs, moderate daily CBD appears to be safe in studies lasting up to 3–6 months, as long as you use a quality product, sensible dosing, and keep your vet in the loop. Mild tummy upset or temporary liver-enzyme changes can occur, especially at higher doses, so start low, go slow, and monitor.
References:
- Six-Month Oral Toxicology Study of Cannabidiol in Healthy Dogs (PMC, 2022)
- Daily Hemp-Derived CBD Tolerability in Dogs (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2024)
- Long-Term CBD for Dogs Caused Few Health Problems (Petfood Industry, 2024)
- CBD for Osteoarthritis and Epilepsy in Dogs (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2023)
Section 1 — What the research says (in plain English)
- Daily use has been well-tolerated in healthy dogs at moderate doses. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, dogs taking about 4 mg/kg once daily for 6 months did well with routine monitoring. (PMC, Frontiers, 2024)
- Other studies around 5 mg/kg/day also report good tolerability, including a 90-day trial of hemp-derived cannabinoids with a follow-up period. (Petfood Industry)
- What about benefits? In dogs with osteoarthritis, CBD at ~2 mg/kg twice daily for 4 weeks was associated with improved comfort and activity in owner and vet assessments. That supports daily use when you and your vet feel it’s appropriate for ongoing issues. (Frontiers, 2023)
Section 2 — Risks, smart dosing, and when to call your vet
- GI upset can happen, especially if you jump to a higher dose (loose stools, occasional vomiting). Easing in slowly usually helps. (Petfood Industry)
- Liver enzymes (ALP) may bump up on labs, typically mild and often without clinical signs; it’s been noted both in short and longer studies. This is a good reason to tell your vet you’re using CBD and consider periodic bloodwork. (PMC, Petfood Industry)
- Dose matters. In one trial, 5 mg/kg/day was better tolerated than 10 mg/kg/day. More isn’t always better. (Petfood Industry)
- Medications can interact. CBD can affect how certain drugs are processed. If your dog takes meds (pain relievers, anti-seizure meds, etc.), loop in your veterinarian first. (Frontiers, 2023)
- Quality is critical. Choose products with third-party testing (potency, contaminants, THC level) and consistent dosing so daily use stays predictable. (Frontiers, 2023)
Helpful context: Most safety data so far are in healthy dogs over weeks to months. If your dog has liver/kidney disease, is a senior with multiple meds, or you notice appetite/behavior changes, talk to your vet and consider dose adjustments or lab monitoring. (Petfood Industry)
So, What Does This Mean for Dog Owners?
The available research shows that most dogs should tolerate daily CBD dosages very well. If your dog has kidney issues, chronic health issues, liver disease, or is on medication, it's very important to talk with your veterinarian before starting CBD, or any new supplement, for your dog on a daily basis.
If your dog is otherwise healthy and a good candidate for CBD use, long-term daily use is potentially the most effective method. Many dog owners have seen excellent results in their dogs, especially when using CBD daily.
If you have any more questions about CBD or hemp products for your dog, you can contact Lolahemp and we'd be happy to help you. As leaders in the pet hemp industry for nearly a decade, we stay up to date on the latest research and insights from pet owners.
