Top 5 CBD Oils for Dogs

Co-authored by Sophia Latorre

Last Updated: September 23, 2022

Have you heard about the benefits of CBD oil? While it’s gained popularity for humans, it can also be helpful to your four-legged best friend. CBD oil is a natural remedy that can reduce anxiety and pain in dogs. If you’re looking for a safe way to help your pup feel better, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll help you choose a CBD oil for your dog that’s high in quality and purity, and also specifically designed for pets. Plus, we’ve got the scoop on everything CBD for dogs, from benefits to drawbacks and how to give it to your dog. Ready to learn more? Read on!

Section 1 of 10:

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is a natural oil extracted from the hemp plant. It has many therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety and pain. It’s safe for long-term use and has few side effects. CBD oil works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate functions such as sleep, appetite, pain and anxiety. Don’t worry, though, it doesn’t contain the psychoactive compound THC that produces a high. Plus, it’s legal in most states and widely available online and in pet stores in a variety of forms, including treats, capsules, tinctures, and topical products.

Section 2 of 10:

Benefits of Using CBD

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Reduces anxiety and stress CBD oil has been shown to be effective in reducing separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and travel anxiety. CBD oil may also help to relieve anxiety caused by prior trauma or stressful events.
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Manages pain CBD oil may help to relieve pain associated with conditions like arthritis, cancer, and injuries. It can also be effective in reducing post-operative pain and inflammation. Plus, CBD oil is non-toxic and won’t interact with other medications your dog may be taking for pain relief.
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Improves mobility CBD oil may help to improve mobility in dogs with arthritis and other conditions that cause pain and inflammation. It can also be effective in reducing stiffness and improving range of motion.
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Reduces seizures CBD oil has been shown to be effective in reducing seizures in dogs. It is a safe and natural treatment for epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
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Boosts appetite CBD oil may help to stimulate appetite in dogs who are not eating due to illness or stress. It can also be helpful for dogs who are undergoing cancer treatment.
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Improves skin health CBD oil may help to improve skin health by reducing inflammation and itchiness. It can also be effective in treating skin conditions like allergies, eczema, and hot spots.
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Reduces side effects of cancer treatment CBD oil can help to reduce the side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. It may also help to improve appetite and weight gain in dogs undergoing chemotherapy.

Section 3 of 10:

Potential Side Effects of Using CBD

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Upset stomach CBD can potentially cause side effects in dogs, including dry mouth, diarrhea, and reduced appetite.
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Risk of toxicity While CBD is generally considered safe, there is a potential for toxicity if your dog ingests too much. Watch your dog closely after giving them CBD, and contact your veterinarian if they seem to be experiencing any adverse effects.
- In some cases, CBD can also interact with other medications your dog is taking. Always talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD, especially if they are taking other medications.
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THC contamination Be sure to purchase CBD products that do not contain THC, as this can be harmful to dogs. Some human-grade CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and purchase pet-specific products.
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Costs Given all its positive qualities, it’s not totally surprising that CBD oil can be quite expensive. It won’t reach the extreme prices of a lot of prescription medicines, but it can still be fairly pricey. However, it’s not always true that the most expensive CBD is the best. As a savvy shopper, you’re sure to find a good CBD oil for dogs that is within your price range.

Section 4 of 10:

Choosing a CBD Oil

Look for a pure, high-quality CBD oil made for dogs. When it comes to your furry friend, you want only the best, especially when it comes to their health and wellbeing. Not all CBD oil is created equal. Here are some tips on how to choose high-quality CBD oils for your dog:
- Make sure the CBD oil is organic and free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. You don't want your dog to ingest anything that could potentially harm them.
- Look for an organic CBD oil that is full- or broad-spectrum, meaning it contains all of the beneficial cannabinoids and not just CBD. This will ensure that your dog is getting the maximum benefit from the oil.
- Choose a CBD oil that is third-party tested. This means that an independent laboratory has tested the oil to ensure that it meets all quality and safety standards.
- Make sure the CBD oil you choose is intended for dogs. Some CBD oils are not meant to be used on animals, so it's important that you get one that is specifically for dogs.

Section 5 of 10:

Best CBD Oils for Dogs

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Best Anti-Inflammatory: Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil Tincture for Dogs This is a great CBD oil tincture for your pup’s anxiety or pain. With its chamomile base, it is especially helpful for easing inflammation. This full-spectrum CBD oil is made from organic hemp and is third-party lab tested to ensure purity and potency. Simply administer the recommended dosage by drops under your pup's tongue or in their food, and you'll start to see a difference in their demeanor in no time. Whether your dog is dealing with separation anxiety, joint pain or any other issue, CBD oil may help ease their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
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Best Price: HolistaPet CBD Oil for Dogs This CBD oil is designed specifically for safe consumption by pets. It is also non-psychoactive, so it will not make your dog high. The oil is derived from 100% pure industrial hemp and has a natural flavor that dogs love. Simply give your pup the recommended dosage based on their weight, and you should see a noticeable difference in their mood and behavior. This is also one of the best-priced CBD oils for dogs available, giving you a ton of bark for your buck.
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Best Organic: Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil is one of the top picks for the best CBD oils for dogs because it's formulated to help reduce anxiety and pain. Made with full spectrum CBD and featuring a natural flavor that most dogs love, Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil is easy to administer and has a high success rate among dog parents. This organic CBD oil comes in several different strengths for all different sizes of dogs.
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Best Pet CBD: Cannanine Ultra-Premium Broad Spectrum CBD Hemp Oil For Dogs And Cats This is one of the best CBD pet oils on the market. Plus, since it is also formulated for cats, it can help multiple four-legged members of your family. It is all-natural and THC-free, so rest assured your pet will not experience any psychoactive effects. This CBD oil is also very effective in reducing anxiety and pain in dogs.
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Best Flavor: FOMO Bones CBD Pet Tincture If you're looking for a CBD oil tincture for your dog that will help with anxiety and pain relief, the CBD Pet Tincture from the Los Angeles based FOMO Bones is a great option. This tincture isn’t filled with any unnecessary fillers. Every single ingredient serves a purpose. What’s more, the rotisserie chicken flavor is a huge draw for your pup, who will have no problem swallowing down this CBD oil.

Section 6 of 10:

Giving Your Dog CBD Oil

Put the CBD oil on a treat or mix it with your dog's food. Start with a small amount and increase it gradually until you reach the desired dose. Giving just a little bit the first time will let you see how your dog reacts to the oil and ensure that they don't have any negative side effects. Talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD, as they will be able to advise you on the best dose for your dog.
- If you're using natural CBD oil to treat anxiety or pain, you should start to see results within a few hours. However, it may take a few days or weeks of regular use before you see the full effects. Be patient and consistent with giving your dog CBD oil, and you’ll start to see improvements.

Section 7 of 10:

Monitoring Your Dog After CBD Use

Watch for any changes in behavior, appetite, or bathroom habits. While CBD is generally considered safe, it's important to monitor your pup after taking CBD oil. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you on whether or not the oil is safe for your dog. Look for:
- Changes in behavior: After giving your dog CBD oil, pay close attention to their behavior. Note any changes, such as increased energy levels or decreased anxiety.
- Changes in appetite: Loss of appetite is a common side effect of CBD use in humans. It's not clear if the same is true for dogs, but it's worth monitoring.
- Changes in bathroom habits: CBD can affect a dog's digestive system, so pay close attention to their bathroom habits. Note any changes in frequency or consistency.

Section 8 of 10:

FAQs

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Is CBD oil safe for dogs? Yes, CBD oil is safe for dogs. It has few side effects and is very effective in reducing anxiety and pain. However, it's highly important to only choose CBD oil products that are specifically formulated for dogs. Not all CBD oils fit that description, and can therefore be harmful to your pet.
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Does CBD help dogs with cancer? While it is unclear whether or not CBD can directly treat canine cancer, it can help the overall treatment in conjunction with more traditional treatments. CBD has been shown to help reduce cancer symptoms and improve quality of life in dogs.
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How much CBD oil do I give my dog? The amount of CBD oil you give your dog will depend on their size and the severity of their anxiety or pain. Always start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually as needed. Follow the directions given to you from the CBD manufacturer. Make sure to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog more than the recommended amount.
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How fast does CBD oil kick in for dogs? CBD oil usually kicks in within an hour or so. However, the effects may vary from dog to dog. Just because you do not see immediate effects does not mean it is not working. However, refrain from increasing the dosage without consulting your veterinarian.
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Can I give CBD oil for humans to my dog? No, you should not give your dog CBD oil that is made for humans. CBD products made for humans can contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Only give your dog products that are specifically designed for them.
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Is CBD oil the same as hemp oil and hemp seed oil? No, CBD oil is not the same as hemp oil or hemp seed oil. Hemp oil and hemp seed oil do not contain CBD and will not have the same effects as CBD oil.

Section 9 of 10:

Signs of Anxiety and Pain in Dogs

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Signs of anxiety Your dog may seem restless or agitated, pant excessively, or pace back and forth. They may also try to hide or seek out comfort from you or other family members.
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Signs of pain If your pup is in pain, they may stop eating or drinking as much as usual. They might also be more lethargic than normal and sleep more often. Notice if they whimper or cry when you touch them in certain areas, or if they yelp when moving around. Dogs in pain may become more aggressive than normal, growling or snapping at you or other animals.
- You might also notice a change in their bathroom habits, such as going more often or having accidents in the house.

Section 10 of 10:

Additional Ways to Treat Anxiety and Pain

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See a vet to rule out medical issues. At the first signs of pain or anxiety, bring your pup to the vet for a checkup. Tell the veterinarian what signs you’ve noticed and if your dog’s routine or behavior has changed. If they find any medical concerns, they can work with you to treat them. Also, ask about using CBD oil as a natural remedy. Then, you can supplement that treatment with the rest of these tips.
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Provide a safe space. Create a quiet place for your dog to relax in, away from anything that could startle or trigger their anxiety. This could be a crate, bed, or even just a corner of a room. Make sure they have free access to this space at all times and that it is comfortable and familiar to them. A soft blanket or cozy bed can make your pup feel more at ease.
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Limit exposure to triggers at first. If there are certain things that tend to make your dog anxious, try to limit their exposure to those triggers as much as possible. For example, if they get anxious around other dogs, try walking them at times when there are fewer dogs out and about.
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Desensitize them to triggers over time. If possible, slowly expose your dog to whatever it is that triggers their anxiety in a controlled setting so that they can learn to cope with it. For example, if they are afraid of loud noises, you could start by playing recordings of low-level noise at a volume they can tolerate, and gradually increase the volume over time.
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Provide comfort for your pup. When your dog is feeling anxious, give them physical and emotional comfort. Try petting, massaging, or simply being close to them. Let them know that you are there for them and that they are safe.
- Create a routine. Dogs often feel more secure when they have a set routine to follow. Try to stick to a regular schedule for meals, walks, and other activities. Keeping things relatively the same from day to day will help your dog feel more relaxed and less anxious.
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Give your dog regular massages. Gently rub their back, legs and paws to help them relax.
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Apply a warm compress to their sore areas. A warm compress can help soothe muscle pain and stiffness.
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Exercise with them regularly. Keeping your dog’s muscles moving can help ease pain and prevent further stiffness. Go on walks, play fetch, or try other activities your pup enjoys.
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Give them joint supplements. Ask your vet about joint supplements that can help lubricate stiff joints and ease pain.
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Adjust their diet. Adding certain foods, such as fish oil or glucosamine, can help ease joint pain. Get advice from their vet on what diet is best for them.