CBD For Dogs: Complete Guide and 5 Top Reviews

What is CBD for Dogs?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD for dogs is a hemp extract explicitly made for dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, although there is no definitive scientific data, ongoing research, recent surveys, and anecdotal evidence suggest pet owners can use CBD oil to manage various health issues, including neuropathic pain and seizures.

The FDA does not approve the medicinal use of pet CBD oil (Food and Drug Administration). Therefore, state laws on a federal level prohibit veterinarians from recommending the use of CBD in pets. However, just because vets cannot prescribe CBD does not mean they cannot talk about it. If you are interested in dog CBD oil, consult with your trusted vet or look for a holistic veterinarian.

Is CBD Oil Safe for Dogs?

Yes, when used in recommended doses and correctly and in the right doses, CBD for dogs is safe. Based on clinical trials, the World Health Organization issued a report on cannabidiol stating that “CBD is generally well-tolerated, with a good safety profile.”

A 2018 study from the Colorado State University called “A Report of Adverse Effects Associated With the Administration of Cannabidiol in Healthy Dogs,” states that “CBD is a well-tolerated supplement.” The same results are confirmed in the 2019 study “Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics and Preliminary Safety Assessment with Use of CBD-Rich Hemp Nutraceutical in Healthy Dogs and Cats.”

However, it should be noted that there are some possible side effects of CBD for dogs usage. Luckily, the potential side effects of CBD are minor and include issues like dry mouth, low blood pressure, and increased sleepiness. Usually, such side effects are linked with higher doses and the sudden introduction of pet CBD products.

Finally, we must emphasize the importance of using CBD products made exclusively for dogs. This is because human CBD products contain THC, which is toxic to dogs. Small amounts of THC are dangerous, while a large amount of THC can be fatal for dogs.

Do Vets Recommend CBD for Dogs?

Vets are not legally allowed to recommend CBD for dogs. There are strict rules regarding the use of CBD supplements in dogs and most veterinarians are not comfortable making suggestions.

However, if you believe your dog’s condition can benefit from a CBD product, you should ask the vet. If necessary, they may refer you to a holistic veterinarian that will explain the use of CBD supplements.

How does CBD for Dogs Work?

CBD for dogs works by supporting the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system present in all mammals. The ECS is responsible for managing various body functions like metabolism, appetite, sleep, immunity, inflammation, pain, mood, memory, cognition, etc.

The ECS is made of endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. CBD works by replacing the body’s endocannabinoids and binding with their receptors that are located in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The bound complex regulates bodily functions, and then the enzymes destroy the complex. In a nutshell, CBD supports the dog’s health naturally through its endocannabinoid system.

What are the Benefits of CBD for Dogs?

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states that much of what we know about the benefits of CBD for dogs come from “anecdotal or case reports” or “human studies.” However, there are some proven benefits. Let’s take a look at them.

• Pain Relief. CBD can help manage pain in dogs, especially chronic neuropathic and osteoarthritic pain. CBD acts on several levels to achieve pain relief.
• Reduced Inflammation. CBD has strong anti-inflammatory features. Plus, hemp extracts contain fatty acids which also have anti-inflammatory properties and add up to the effect.
• Anxiety Management. CBD is a potent stress-reliever. The supplement supports relaxation and can help dogs with various forms of anxiety and phobias.
• Seizure Control. CBD offers nervous system support and helps with seizures on two levels – it reduces both their intensity and frequency.
• Immune System Boost. CBD has an immunomodulatory effect, meaning it boosts the immune system. This results in a stronger immune response and increased protection from harmful agents.

Plus, compared to medication and prescription drug options, it is much safer and with fewer side effects, especially in the long term. Namely, the best thing about CBD for dogs is that it supports the body functions and health naturally.

While CBD for dogs helps in several ways, its use must be objective and vet-approved. Dr. Jerry Klein says that when it comes to CBD oil, “the popularity and marketing is outpacing the researching and regulation.” This statement emphasizes the importance of talking to your veterinarian before using CBD for your dog’s health condition.

The Best CBD for Dogs Reviewed

With so many options for CBD for dogs, finding the best one is a challenging task. We want dog owners to spend more time with their pets and less time doing online research. Therefore, we have carefully picked and reviewed some of the best CBD for dogs.

Honest Paws CBD Oil

Get it on Honest Paws

Price: $39.95

Item Form: Oil

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: Unflavored

Recommended Uses:

• Immune Support
• Provides seasonal allergy relief
• Provides cognitive support

Summary: Rated as the number #1 pet CBD brand in the US, Honest Paws is the definition of quality. Honest Paws offers condition-specific CBD products made with organic, full-spectrum CBD and added health-boosting ingredients. In simpler words, Honest Paws covers all dogs regardless of age, size, and underlying condition.

Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Ingredient List: Organic Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil, Organic MCT Oil

Customer Review: Pet owners say that the CBD oil is a “super awesome product” and that has “rolled back some years” in their dogs. They also mention that Honest Paws is a “CBD oil you can trust.” All in all, Honest Paws is the best CBD oil for dogs. What are customers saying about Honest Paws CBD oil for dogs? “CBD Wellness works at relieving joint pain for my dog, Honeybug, who has arthritis in her right back knee. Coincidentally, it also helps relieve her itching in her right ear due to chronic yeast infection.” – Dawn C.

“We have been using CBD oil for our 5 year old dog Jax, who suffers from focal seizures. In the last few months, we have definitely seen an improvement in the frequency and severity of his seizures and we couldn’t be more grateful for Honest Paws.”

– Anna K.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Honest Paws CBD Oil an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets. It is also Non-GMO, organic, and human-grade.
• Cost Effectiveness (10/10): The price of this product is perfectly aligned with its quality.
• Customer Feedback (10/10): All customer reviews are positive.
• Product Variety (10/10): This product has an extensive dosage variety.

Honest Paws Well CBD Oil for Dogs

• Support sensitive skin & seasonal allergies
• Boost immune system & cognitive function
• Enhance bone & joint health
• Promote relaxation & combat stress

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Honest Paws CBD Treats

Get it on Honest Paws

Price: $24.95

Item Form: Chews

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: Creamy Coconut

Recommended Uses:

• Immune Support
• Relief seasonal allergy
• Provide cognitive support

Summary: Honest Paws is the top trustworthy and reliable CBD brand in the US. Offering a wide range of condition-specific CBD products, the brand has something for every dog. The CBD treats are made with full-spectrum hemp and are ideal for picky eaters with seizures.

Hemp Source: Organic Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil 40mg

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 5mg per bite

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Ingredient List: Organic Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil 40mg (contains 5mg of naturally occurring CBD), MCT Oil, Organic Barley Flour, Organic Coconut Flakes, Organic Oats, Organic Peanut Butter, Whole Dried Eggs.

Customer Review: Pet owners say their dogs “honestly like” the Honest Paws CBD dog treats. They also mention they are “easy to use” and “efficient.” All in all, Honest Paws offers the best CBD treats for dogs of any size.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Honest Paws CBD Treats an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is ideal for all types and breeds of pets with different ailments.
• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is completely safe for pets and is created with the best components. Additionally, it is organic, human-grade, and non-GMO.
• Cost Effectiveness (10/10): This product’s cost and quality are precisely the same.
• Customer Feedback (10/10): The customer leaves positive feedback about this product.
• Product Variety (9/10): This product comes in one recipe but there are several other condition-specific products.

Penelope’s Bloom CBD Treats

Get it on Penelope’s Bloom

Price:$39.99

Item Form: Chew

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: N/A

Recommended Uses:

• Aids mobility and flexibility
• Prevents joint issues
• Reduces inflammation
• Promotes daily activity

Summary: Penelope’s Bloom is a pet CBD brand that cares for and it uses sustainable ingredients, recycles materials, and donates to pet shelters. The Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats are perfect for big dogs with seizures as they contain 20 mg of cannabidiol per treat.

Hemp Source: US-grown hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 10mg per treat

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Ingredient List: Omega 3, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, L-Taurine, Acetyle-L-Carnitine (ALCAR), Green Tree Extract, Hawthrown Berry, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Cannabidiol (CBD), Organic Blueberry, Organic Spinach, Organic Sweet Potato, Organic Brown Rice Flour, Organic Oats, Organic Flaxseeds, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Cinnamon, Organic Molasses.

Customer Review: Dog owners say the Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats “make a difference.” They are also happy with the cost-effectiveness of the product and the generous subscribe and save program.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Penelope’s Bloom CBD Treats an overall 10/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): The item is acceptable for pets of all ages and breeds and is made with premium ingredients.

• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from non-GMO, organic, plant-based, and human-grade ingredients.
• Cost Effectiveness (10/10): This product has an affordable price and excellent product quality.
• Customer Feedback (10/10): All customer reviews are positive and they would recommend the product to other pet owners.
• Product Variety (10/10): This particular product comes in only one recipe but in different types of consumables.

Batch CBD Oil

Price: $64.99

Item Form: Oil

Lifestage: All life stages

Flavor: Bacon and salmon

Recommended Uses:

• Improves mobility
• Overall wellness
• Helps reduce anxiety

Summary: Batch CBD oil is infused with premium cannabidiol that is 100% organic hemp grown in Wisconsin. This CBD oil is natural and a safe supplement designed to support your pet’s overall health and wellness at any life stage. It can help alleviate a range of conditions including anxiety, hyperactivity, anxiety, joint pain, and inflammation. Just place a drop of CBD under your dog’s tongue or mix it into their food.

Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp

Extraction Method: Ultra-cold ethanol extraction

Potency Options: 750mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with a 25% discount

Ingredient List:

Bacon Flavor: Organic MCT Coconut Oil, Raw Hemp Extract (Aerial Parts), Bacon Oil.

Salmon Flavor: Organic MCT Coconut Oil, Distilled Hemp Extract (Aerial Parts), Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil.

Customer Review: Customers say they’ve seen a “noticeable difference” in their dogs after using Batch CBD and some say it’s even been “a lifesaver.” Pet parents love this CBD as it helps with a range of conditions and overall “exceeds expectations.”

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Batch CBD oil an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): This product is absolutely suitable for pets of all ages and sizes.
• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product contains 100% organic hemp grown in Wisconsin.
• Cost Effectiveness (9/10): The price of the product is a little higher than average.
• Customer Feedback (10/10): With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on their website, customers love Batch CBD.
• Product Variety (10/10): This CBD oil comes in two pet-friendly flavors including bacon and salmon.

Four Leaf Rover CBD Oil

Get it on The Natural Dog Store

Price: $34.99

Item Form: Oil

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: Unflavored

Recommended Uses:

• Helps in relieving pain
• Provide anti-inflammatory benefits
• Manages anxiety

Summary: The Four Leaf Rover CBD oil is made with full-spectrum, organic hemp and features some of the best natural ingredients. Plus, it is extracted using the preferable supercritical CO2 extraction. The Four Leaf Rover CBD oil is available at different potencies, thus making the dosing process reasonably straightforward.

Hemp Source: Organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Ingredient List: Organic Full Spectrum Hemp Oil, Human Grade MCT Oil

Customer Review: Pet owners say this CBD oil is a “good product to have on hand.” They also say it is “amazing” and “makes dogs go great”. All in all, Four Leaf Rover is the dog CBD oil with the best natural ingredients.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Four Leaf Rover CBD Oil an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (9/10): The product is HIGHLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets.
• Cost Effectiveness (9/10): The price of this product is greatly aligned with its quality.
• Customer Feedback (8/10): Majority of the customers’ reviews are positive.
• Product Variety (10/10): This product has an extremely wide variety of dosage and breed life stage compatibility.

CBDfx CBD Oil

Get it on CBDfx

Price:$79.99

Item Form: Oil

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: Bacon

Recommended Uses:

• Enhanced wellness
• Provide pain relief
• Provide calming properties

Summary: CBDfx is a less-known CBD brand but with outstanding features. The brand uses high-quality broad-spectrum CBD oil in its formulations and coconut oil as a carrier. The CBDfx CBD oil is vegan and gluten-free. Plus, featuring smoked bacon flavor, the oil is straightforward to give to dogs.

Hemp Source: Human-grade hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg, 2000 mg

Subscription Program: No

Ingredient List: CBD-rich hemp oil, MCT oil

Customer Review: Pet owners say the CBDfx CBD Oil is “wonderful” and they have “noticed a big difference after starting to use the oil”. Overall, CBDfx is the best broad-spectrum CBD for dogs with arthritis.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving CBDfx CBD Oil an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
• Ingredient Quality (10/10): This product is non-GMO, organic, and human-grade. It is also made from the highest-quality ingredients and is perfectly safe for pets.
• Cost Effectiveness (9/10): The price of this product is greatly aligned with its quality.
• Customer Feedback (9/10): Most of the customer reviews are positive.
• Product Variety (9/10): This product has plenty of flavors and recipe varieties.

Petly CBD Oil

Get it on Petly CBD

Price: $89.99

Item Form: Oil

Lifestage: Dogs of all ages

Flavor: Unflavored

Recommended Uses:

• Support canine health

Summary: Petly CBD offers broad-spectrum CBD oil for pets made with non-GMO and high-quality ingredients. Its CBD oils are safe and efficient, and most importantly, easy to use because of the dog-friendly flavors. Plus, the brand has polite customer service ready to answer all CBD-related questions.

Hemp Source: Organic hemp, MCT coconut oil

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Ingredient List: Organic Hemp, MCT coconut oil

Customer Review: Pet owners are happy that the CBD for dogs is vet-approved. They are also satisfied with its efficacy, affordability, and the fact their dogs like its taste. All in all, Petly CBD offers the most options for dogs.

Onevet.ai Review: Our team at total.vet is giving Petly CBD Oil an overall 9/10 star rating. A breakdown of our rating is listed below:

• Pet Suitability (10/10): The product is PERFECTLY suitable, age-appropriate, and breed-fit for pets.
• Ingredient Quality (9/10): This product is made from premium ingredients and is highly safe for pets. It is also free from preservatives and chemicals.
• Cost Effectiveness (10/10): This product has an affordable price and excellent quality.
• Customer Feedback (9/10): Most of the customers’ reviews are positive.
• Product Variety (9/10): This product has plenty of flavors and recipe varieties.

What Health Problems Can CBD Help Dogs With?

CBD can benefit dogs with various health problems including arthritis, allergies, cancer, seizures, anxiety, hyperactivity, glaucoma, and lymphoma.

CBD Oil for Dog Arthritis

Canine arthritis is a widespread issue, especially among older dogs of certain breeds. The condition manifests with joint pain and impaired mobility. CBD for Dogs With Arthritis is helpful on two levels. First, CBD helps relieve chronic pain and second, it has anti-inflammatory properties. Dogs supplemented with CBD oil require lower NSAID doses for pain relief. The benefits of CBD for dogs with arthritis are also demonstrated in a study by Cornell University.

CBD Oil for Dog Allergies

Allergies are increasingly common among modern dogs. CBD for Dog Allergies is a novel perspective and therapeutic opportunity. CBD manages the universal allergy symptom – inflammation and can help with different allergies, including atopic dermatitis and seasonal allergies. In dogs with allergies, CBD works by balancing the immune system.

CBD Oil for Dog Cancer

With one in three dogs developing cancer at a certain point, this is a prevalent ailment. CBD for Dogs With Cancer offers promising effects. CBD can help destroy cancer cells, prevents metastasis, and has tumor-shrinking features. Plus, CBD has anti-nausea effects and can help relieve the harmful side effects of chemotherapy.

CBD Oil for Dog Seizures

Seizures are the most common neurologic disorder in dogs. CBD for Dog Seizures is a promising option, especially for treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. In a groundbreaking 2018 study, from Colorado State University, CBD was found helpful for seizure management in 89% of the cases. The AKC Canine Health Foundation is funding studies to back up these results.

CBD Oil for Dog Anxiety

Anxious dogs exhibit two forms of stress, situational and behavioral. CBD for Dog Anxiety can help with both issues. CBD reduces the dog’s anxiety by changing the way the brain responds to serotonin (the so-called feel-good hormone). What is more, CBD promotes better sleep in anxious pets and can help with noise phobias.

CBD Oil for Dog Hyperactivity

True hyperactivity in dogs is relatively rare. However, many dogs exhibit certain fractions of unwanted hyper behavior which are linked to three main chemicals: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. CBD for Hyper Dogs can balance the dog’s mood and emotional well-being by modulating their levels. Plus, CBD oil promotes calmness and relaxation.

CBD Oil for Dog Glaucoma

Glaucoma affects 1.7% of dogs in North America and if untreated, results in blindness. CBD for Dog Glaucoma can lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Additionally, CBD is rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene which have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties. In simple words, CBD oil boosts eye health.

CBD Oil for Dog Lymphoma

Accounting for as much as 24% of all canine neoplasia cases in the US, Lymphoma is a common condition. CBD Oil for Dog Lymphoma is an excellent addition to the multimodal treatment plan. CBD supports tumor cell death and can help prevent tumor spreading. Simply put, CBD has an extensive range of anti-cancer properties.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

The recommended dosage of CBD for dogs is between 1 and 5 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight as a daily dose. The exact dose depends on the underlying condition for using the CBD product. If you are not sure, double-check the mg CBD your dog needs with a licensed veterinarian.

To minimize the risk of harmful side effects, it is advisable to start with lower doses and then gradually increase the small amounts of CBD as your dog gets used to the new supplement. The good news is that dogs cannot overdose on CBD. If you give your dog too much CBD oil, it will sleep off the effects.

What Potency of CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

Pet CBD tinctures are available in different strengths. Generally speaking, the stronger potencies are reserved for dogs that need higher doses. This is because in such a case, you can use a smaller amount of CBD tincture to achieve the wanted effect. High-strength or extra-strength CBD for dogs are also recommended for large and giant breeds (they need more mg CBD per dose, and such options will have a better cost-to-efficacy ratio).

How Can I Give CBD to My Dog?

High-quality CBD for dogs comes in different forms and therefore can be given in different ways. Below is a short review of some of the most popular ways of giving your dog CBD.

Sublingual CBD Administration. You can draw CBD oil into the dropper and squirt it directly into your dog’s mouth. This is a quick-acting approach but not all dogs like the handling and the CBD taste. However, if you need fast results, giving the CBD extract sublingually is the method of choice.

CBD Infused Treats. CBD-infused dog treats are available in many forms like soft chews, bites, and peanut butter. They are also usually enriched with additional health-boosting ingredients like chondroitin sulfate, turmeric, and chamomile. CBD treats offer a better chance of dosing picky eaters and are more practical if you are on the go.

Homemade CBD Treats. You can bake your own CBD dog treats using high-quality CBD tincture and some dog-friendly natural ingredients. However, you need to remember that high temperatures deactivate CBD. Also, because of the uneven distribution of CBD tincture, it will be hard to determine the right dosage for your dog.

Topical CBD Application. There are CBD products like balms or creams explicitly made for topical use in dogs. They are efficient and practical as long as you can keep your dog from licking them until fully absorbed. The licking is not harmful, but it will affect the efficacy of the CBD topical.

How do I Choose CBD for My Dog?

Considering the CBD market size, finding a high-quality CBD for dogs will be much easier if you know what to look for. So, before you visit a local pet store or an online shop, you need to consider several factors. Below is a list and a short review of those factors.

Third-Party Lab Testing. The efficacy and safety of CBD for dogs must be checked through a third-party lab test. The lab issues its results in form of a document called a Certificate of Analysis (COA). COA provides a full chemical breakdown of the final product including types and amounts of cannabinoids and confirms the absence of contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and preservatives.

Hemp Source. CBD for dogs (and pets in general) must be extracted from hemp and not marijuana. This is because marijuana contains THC, which is toxic to pets. On the other hand, the hemp plant contains less than 0.3% THC, and such small amounts cannot cause problems in dogs.

Types of Extracts. There is a big difference between hemp oil and hemp seed oil. The first is extracted from the hemp plant’s leaves, flowers, and stalks and loaded with cannabinoids. The latter is made from hemp seeds and rich in omegas but lacking cannabinoids. Hempseed oil is still good for dogs, but it comes with fewer health benefits than hemp CBD oil.

CBD Isolate. CBD isolates are oil formulas that contain only one cannabinoid – cannabidiol. Isolate CBD for dogs is health-boosting but not as efficient as full and broad-spectrum formulas.

Full Spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD for dogs offers maximum benefits for dogs and is stronger than broad-spectrum hemp. This formula has a versatile cannabinoid profile and compounds with entourage effects like terpenes, flavonoids, and omega fatty acids.

Brand Transparency. Reputable and trustworthy CBD companies are transparent about their products. They will have their COAs available and offer insight into reviews from other pet owners. When checking brands, pay attention to policies like free shipping and within how many business days the order is shipped, money-back guarantees, and customer support services.

Made in the USA and Organic. Always look for a CBD pet tincture made in the USA and from organic hemp. This is because the heavy use of pesticides in industrial hemp and CBD-rich industrial hemp flowers is hazardous to dogs and cats. Ideally, the right CBD for dogs should be organic and made in the USA.

With that being said, it is necessary to see your vet before adding CBD products to your dog’s healthcare regimen. The veterinarian will evaluate the need for CBD, help you choose the right product, and give dosage & usage instructions.