CBD Oil for Dogs: 3 High-Quality CBD Oil Products To Give Your Dog’s Health a Boost
CBD oil for dogs is a great choice to support your dog's overall wellness while helping them cope with pain and anxiety. CBD, a cannabinoid from the hemp plant, offers several potential therapeutic benefits. It can help nervous dogs settle down and relax and ease pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other conditions. CBD hemp oil is easy to administer and can be taken directly or mixed in with food.
Since human CBD oils aren’t always suitable for dogs, many pet supply companies have created CBD dog products that are formulated specifically for our furry friends. However, with such a large pool of CBD products to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which one is best for your pet’s health needs. If you’re interested in incorporating CBD oil into your pup’s regimen but don’t know where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll introduce you to three of the highest-rated CBD dog oils on the market. Join us as we explore these exciting products and learn how they can help your canine companion maintain a healthy immune system and improve overall wellness.
Summary of the Best CBD Oil for Dogs
- Best Overall: CBDfx CBD Oil for Dogs
- Best for Anxious Dogs: Medterra CBD Pet Oil
- Best for Pain Management: Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil For Dogs
Potential Health Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs
CBD, a compound found in hemp and cannabis plants, has been associated with numerous health benefits. CBD binds with endocannabinoid receptors throughout a canine’s central nervous system. Not only can it support a healthy immune system, but it can also be used to alleviate anxiety, improve cognitive function, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the potential benefits CBD dog products offer.
- Pain relief: CBD dog oil can block pain signals and has natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for treating joint discomfort, arthritis, muscle pain, dental pain, and other types of acute and long-term pain.
- Improved mobility: By reducing both pain and swelling, CBD can improve your dog's mobility and help them remain active as they age.
- Anxiety relief: If your dog has separation anxiety or gets nervous during storms, vet visits, or car rides, giving them CBD oil for dogs before a stressful event may be helpful. It can potentially soothe anxiety and reduce nervous behaviors, such as excessive barking and growling.
- Allergy management: Allergy symptoms, like itching and red skin, often respond well to CBD oil.
- Improved cognitive function: Some pet owners give their dogs CBD oil before training sessions to help them focus and learn more effectively.
- Seizure control: The Colorado State University of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is researching the potential of CBD to lessen seizure frequency and intensity in epileptic canines resistant to other treatments.
Best CBD Oil for Dogs
1. Best Overall: CBDfx CBD Oil for Dogs
What we love:
If you’re looking for a high-quality, potent CBD dog oil that your pup will enjoy, try CBDfx CBD Oil for Dogs. The enticing bacon flavor appeals even to the pickiest pooches, and the scent is noticeable as soon as you open the bottle, which can help get your dog excited about taking the supplement. Made with human-grade ingredients, this product has a dropper, making it easy to control your pup’s CBD dosage. Plus, it’s third-party lab-tested and backed by a 60-day guarantee.
Several reviewers give this CBD dog oil to their pets daily to combat arthritis and joint stiffness. They say it helps older dogs run, jump, and play more easily. Other dog owners use this product for treating anxiety and nervousness, claiming it helps curb destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or ripping apart shoes.
Pros:
- Vegan, human-grade ingredients
- Medically reviewed by a veterinarian
- Appealing bacon flavor
- Made with non-GMO, organic hemp
Cons:
- Contains coconut-derived MCT oil, a common allergen
Specs:
- CBD type: Broad-spectrum CBD
- Size: 1 ounce (30 mL) per bottle
- Strength: 250 mg, 500 mg, 1,000 mg, or 2,000 mg CBD per bottle
- Flavor(s): Bacon
CBDfx offers free shipping on orders over a minimum cost. It also has a rewards program that customers can join to earn discounts towards future purchases.
Learn more about CBDfx CBD Oil for Dogs today
2. Best for Anxious Dogs: Medterra CBD Pet Oil
What we love:
If your dog struggles with anxiety, we suggest trying Medterra CBD Pet Oil. Designed to help dogs feel calm and balanced, this product comes in two exciting flavors and an unflavored option to appeal to different palates. It’s available in two sizes, including a smaller-than-average 0.5-ounce bottle, which is ideal for trying out the product to see how your dog tolerates it before committing to a larger bottle.
Formulated with organic, human-grade ingredients, this pet CBD oil is lab-tested and certified by the US Hemp Authority. It uses MCT oil as a primary carrier oil, which is easy to digest and absorb. There are no additives, fillers, or artificial colors to worry about.
Many dog owners report that their pups are calmer and sleep better when taking this CBD dog oil. They also love the built-in dropper bottle, which makes dosing and administering a breeze.
Pros:
- Made with human-grade CBD isolate
- Also suitable for cats
- USA-made and veterinarian-tested
- Certificates of Analysis available for review
Cons:
- May be less potent than broad- or full-spectrum CBD oil
Specs:
- CBD type: CBD isolate
- Size: 0.5 ounces (15 mL) or 1 ounce (30 mL) per bottle
- Strength: 300 mg, 750 mg, or 1,200 mg CBD per bottle
- Flavor(s): Unflavored, Beef, Chicken
Medterra offers discounts to customers who sign up for its Subscribe & Save plan. It also awards customers points towards future discounts through the Medterra Rewards program. Military personnel may qualify for additional discounts with Medterra Cares.
Learn more about Medterra CBD Pet Oil today
3. Best for Pain Management: Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil For Dogs
What we love:
If your pup experiences chronic pain, we recommend Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil For Dogs. This full-spectrum CBD oil is made with all-natural ingredients and contains plenty of terpenes, which can help ease pain and inflammation. It also features chamomile to promote calmness on top of alleviating physical discomfort. There are no added colors or flavors, and the bottle is printed with a detailed ingredient list and dosing instructions.
Choose from four different concentrations specially formulated to accommodate pups of different sizes. This full-spectrum CBD oil is made in the USA and subjected to rigorous third-party laboratory testing to ensure potency, safety, and quality.
Many reviewers notice an improvement in their dogs' mobility after giving them this full-spectrum CBD dog oil. Pet parents who use this product to treat dental pain report that their dogs have an easier time chewing and eating.
Pros:
- Made with organic, full-spectrum CBD
- Third-party lab-tested
- Vegan and non-GMO
- Contains chamomile for a calming effect
Cons:
- Potent hemp taste and flavor
Specs:
- CBD type: Full-spectrum CBD
- Size: 30 mL per bottle
- Strength: 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg, or 1000 mg CBD per bottle
- Flavor(s): Unflavored
Penelope's Bloom often shares discount codes on its website. It also offers discounts on repeat orders through its Subscribe & Save plan.
Learn more about Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil For Dogs today
How We Picked the Best CBD Oils for Dogs
As dog owners, we know the importance of purchasing the best-quality products for our furry companions. So, we wanted to feature only the best CBD oil for dogs in this article. We reviewed each option thoroughly, focusing on the following key factors:
Lab Testing
Third-party lab testing demonstrates that a product is free from contaminants like fungal spores, bacteria, heavy metals, residual solvents, and pesticide residues. Our selections have been tested by unbiased, independent labs and are confirmed free from harmful substances.
Ingredient Quality
The highest-quality CBD products are made with safe, all-natural ingredients. We preferred those made with hemp extract from organic, USA-grown hemp plants. We also ensure all ingredients in our recommended CBD oils are pet-friendly, pure, and safe. Whenever possible, we avoided products that contain common allergens and artificial additives.
Product Reviews
We gave preference to CBD products with rave reviews from pet owners. We paid close attention to the benefits each reviewer reported. The more pet owners reported the same quality and effects, the more confidence we had in the product.
How To Find the Best CBD Oil for Your Dog
Finding the right CBD oil for your pup can be difficult, but these helpful tips can make it easier. As you’re shopping for CBD oil for dogs, keep the following considerations in mind to ensure you find the best product for your furry friend:
Ingredients
Before purchasing CBD oil for dogs, it’s essential to check the product’s listing or label to see its ingredients. Look for options made with top-quality industrial hemp. The best options use human-grade ingredients, meaning they’re the same quality as products formulated for people.
Avoid CBD dog oils that contain fillers, additives, and other harmful or artificial ingredients. Be sure to consider any dietary restrictions your pup may have when deciding. If your dog is allergic to wheat, aim for a wheat-free product. Some dogs are allergic to coconut derivatives like coconut oil. If this applies to yours, make sure the CBD dog oil you choose is free from MCT oil derived from coconut oil.
Flavor
CBD oil for dogs comes in various flavor options designed to appeal to your pup. Some of the most popular flavors include bacon, chicken, and beef. Alternatively, unflavored oils are great for mixing with your pooch’s food.
Potency
CBD oil for dogs comes in various strengths. The two main factors to remember when determining which potency best suits your pet are your dog's size and the severity of their symptoms. High-potency CBD oil for dogs is ideal for larger breeds and pups with more severe symptoms. On the other hand, low-potency CBD dog oil is best for small breeds and dogs with less severe symptoms.
Primary Benefits
Consider the benefits you want your pup to gain from CBD dog oil, and choose a product that offers those effects. For example, if you’re giving your pet CBD oil for dogs to promote a healthy immune system, you’ll want to check the oil’s description to ensure it offers immune support.
Most companies will list the specific benefits you can expect from their CBD oil for dogs. You can also read reviews to see what benefits other customers notice from various products. If many reviewers say that a certain CBD oil for dogs is great for calming their pups down, then it's safe to assume your dog will experience similar anxiety-relieving benefits.
Ease of Use
How easy CBD dog oil is to use depends more on the packaging than the oil itself. Look for CBD oils that come in bottles with dropper lids. These built-in droppers typically have measurement markings printed, making precise dosing and CBD administration much easier.
Company Reputation
Before purchasing CBD oil for dogs, it’s important to consider the brand’s reputation. The best retailers are completely transparent about their production process and ingredients. Stick to brands that have their products tested by independent laboratories and make the resulting lab reports easily accessible to buyers. The retailer you purchase from should also offer excellent customer support and guarantee its products.
Customer Reviews
Read plenty of customer reviews to get a full, balanced look at what you can expect from the various CBD products you're considering. Pay attention to patterns in the reviews. If multiple reviewers mention a particular benefit or shortcoming, the information is more reliable than if only one or two reviewers note it.
It's wise to pay the most attention to reviews from owners whose dogs are similar to yours. If you have a beagle, read reviews from other beagle owners. If your dog has a particular allergy or medical condition, reviews from other pet owners whose dogs have the same issue can provide more relevant information.
Other Types of CBD Products for Dogs
CBD oil for dogs is a great choice for many canines. It's easy to measure, contains simple ingredients, and is available in multiple strengths. However, if you have trouble getting your pup to take CBD dog oil, you may want to consider the following alternatives:
CBD Treats
CBD treats and CBD chews for dogs are canine treats infused with CBD. These snacks offer a tasty way to get CBD into your dog’s system. Soft, chewy treats CBD treats are perfect for dogs with dental problems, and hard treats are also available for canines that prefer a crunchy texture.
Each CBD dog treat contains a pre-measured dose of CBD, so you don’t have to worry about measuring. Plus, they come in a variety of tasty flavors that help mask the taste of hemp, even in ultra-potent treats made with full-spectrum hemp extract.
On the downside, you’ll need to keep CBD dog treats out of your pup’s reach. If your dog gets into the bag and eats more than one or two, they may experience unwanted side effects.
CBD Salves and Balms
CBD salves and balms are topical products formulated with CBD oil for dogs. These products are applied to your pup’s skin and can help ease joint pain or skin problems. The CBD enters your dog’s system through the skin and can relieve pain and inflammation in the underlying muscle and joint tissues. It can also relieve inflammation that causes itchiness and redness in skin irritated by allergens.
If your dog is picky and won’t eat an oral CBD product, then topicals are a good alternative. They’re also great for providing targeted relief from pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, dogs tend to lick these products, so you'll need to keep your dog from licking the area to which the balm has been applied. Also, topicals are excellent for treating localized pain, but they’re not the best choice for widespread pain alleviation.
CBD Grooming Products
If your pup gets anxious while being groomed, there are various CBD-infused shampoos, conditioners, and hair styling products for dogs. These products can soothe and calm your pet during grooming sessions for a less stressful experience. They’re also great for dogs that have dry or sensitive skin. However, these products can't be used daily and aren’t the best choice for the continual management of arthritis or anxiety symptoms.
Types of CBD Oil for Dogs
There are three CBD oil products: CBD isolate, broad-spectrum CBD oil, and full-spectrum CBD oil. Below, we’ve outlined the most important details to know about each one.
Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD oil is so named because it contains the full spectrum of compounds extracted from the hemp plant. In other words, full-spectrum CBD oil doesn’t only contain CBD; it also contains terpenes, fatty acids, and other cannabinoids.
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains terpenes such as pinene and myrcene. Many terpenes have health benefits and may also enhance the benefits of CBD.
This type of oil is rich in fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. Many scientists and healthcare professionals recommend these fatty acids for having therapeutic effects on the muscles, joints, heart, and brain.
Full-spectrum CBD oil also contains smaller amounts of other cannabinoids, including THC. Many of these compounds have natural pain-relieving and anxiety-fighting properties. As such, some dogs experience more pain relief from full-spectrum CBD oil than from other types of CBD hemp oil.
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil
If you like the idea of the terpenes and other cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD oil but are hesitant to give your dog THC, then broad-spectrum CBD oil is a great option. Broad-spectrum CBD oil is what’s left after THC is removed from full-spectrum hemp extract. This type of CBD oil contains everything extracted from the hemp plant except for THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil is often a good choice for dogs that become tired or irritable after being given a full-spectrum CBD product. It's also good for dogs that need a larger dose of CBD. You can give them a larger dose of broad-spectrum CBD hemp oil without worrying that they'll develop side effects from ingesting too much THC.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is quite different from broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD products. CBD isolate only contains CBD; it doesn’t contain anything else. CBD has plenty of benefits on its own, and CBD isolate products are great for managing pain, anxiety, and other conditions. However, they may not be as potent or effective as products containing terpenes and minor cannabinoids.
One reason some pet parents prefer CBD isolate is its flavor. It barely tastes like hemp, so even the pickiest dogs will eat it. By comparison, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils have a much stronger hemp taste.
Potential Side Effects of CBD Oil for Dogs
Most dogs that are given CBD oil don't experience any side effects. Occasionally, some dogs become overly thirsty when taking CBD hemp oil. This is often because the terpenes in the oil cause their mouths to feel dry. You're less likely to see this side effect with products made with CBD isolate, which doesn’t contain terpenes.
Another possible side effect of CBD oil for dogs is lethargy. Your dog may just want to sleep and not be bothered. Luckily, this side effect will wear off when the CBD wears off. If you don't want your dog tired, try giving them a smaller dose of CBD oil next time.
Some dogs experience nausea after being given CBD oil for dogs. To reduce the chance of this side effect, give your dog CBD with a meal or snack.
Full-spectrum CBD oils contain trace amounts of THC. Consuming too much THC can be harmful or toxic to your pup, so be sure to adhere to the dosing recommendations given by the manufacturer or your furry companion’s vet.
FAQ
Is CBD legal?
On a federal level, hemp-derived CBD is legal if it doesn’t exceed 0.3% THC based on dry weight. However, CBD sourced from the marijuana plant or cannabis plant is not legal. State laws regarding CBD, including federally legal CBD, often vary.
Is CBD oil safe for dogs?
CBD oil is generally a safe addition to your pet’s regimen with a few stipulations. First, the oil must be lab-tested to verify that it’s free from bacteria, fungal spores, heavy metals, and pesticide residues. These substances may not be safe for dogs, so only give your dog CBD oil that has been lab-tested and found free of these contaminants.
CBD oil is also only safe for dogs if it doesn’t contain too much THC. Reputable companies that make CBD oil for dogs make sure their products contain only safe, trace amounts of THC. However, products made for humans and those that aren’t lab-tested may contain more THC than is safe for your pup. If you’re concerned about giving your pup products that contain THC, you may want to avoid full-spectrum CBD oil and other products made with full-spectrum hemp extract. Instead, opt for broad-spectrum or isolate products, as these don’t contain THC.
The bottom line is that CBD oil is safe for dogs if made specifically for pets and has been tested in a lab for purity and potency. If you have health concerns about giving your pet CBD oil, consult your pup’s vet before starting them on a CBD regimen.
Will CBD oil make my dog high?
CBD is a non-psychoactive substance, meaning it doesn’t produce intoxicating effects. THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. While this compound produces mind-altering effects in humans, it affects animals differently. THC won’t make your dog high, but it can be toxic to pets if consumed in large amounts.
CBD oil made with CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD is completely free from THC, while full-spectrum CBD oil contains trace amounts of THC. If your pet consumes too much THC, they can develop THC toxicosis — a serious condition that requires medical attention. The amount of THC in a proper dose of full-spectrum CBD oil isn’t enough to cause adverse effects, and it can potentially enhance the benefits of CBD. However, if your pup accidentally consumes a large amount of full-spectrum CBD oil, they may experience severe side effects, including THC toxicosis.
Call their vet immediately if your pup accidentally consumes too much full-spectrum CBD oil. Knowing approximately how much full-spectrum hemp extract your dog consumed can help your pup’s vet determine the best course of treatment. Many dogs will require intravenous fluids and other stabilizing measures after overexposure to THC.
How do I give my dog CBD oil?
The easiest way to give a dog CBD oil is to stir it into their food. Measure the correct dose, and mix it with your pet’s wet food or kibble. If your pet allows, you can also try administering CBD oil directly into your dog’s mouth. Use one hand to gently open their mouth and the other to dispense the oil onto their tongue.
How much CBD oil should I give my dog?
Before you administer CBD, it’s important to determine a safe yet effective dosage for your pup. Ideal CBD dosage varies and depends on several factors, including the product’s potency and your dog’s body weight. Generally, larger dogs will require more CBD than smaller dogs to achieve the same effects. The recommended dose of CBD for dogs is 1 to 5 milligrams of CBD per 10 pounds of weight.
To determine your pet’s ideal CBD dosage, follow the manufacturer’s dosing recommendations or consult your pooch’s vet. Be careful not to overdose on your pet, especially if you’re using a product made with full-spectrum hemp extract.
What’s the difference between a CBD oil and a CBD tincture?
CBD oil and CBD tinctures are often thought to be the same. However, there’s a slight difference between these CBD products. CBD oil consists of a combination of CBD (in the form of either full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, or CBD isolate) and some type of carrier oil. A CBD tincture, on the other hand, uses alcohol as a solvent. Both offer similar benefits. However, tinctures are usually absorbed faster, resulting in a quicker onset of effects.
Can I give my dog my own CBD oil?
No, dogs should only be given CBD oil for dogs. CBD oil and other products made for humans may be unsafe for dogs. Some CBD oils for humans contain more THC than dogs can safely consume, which could result in worrisome side effects such as dizziness and seizures. Additionally, some human CBD oil contains added ingredients that your pet’s body can't tolerate. For example, some brands add flavoring compounds to their human CBD oil. These ingredients may cause nausea or trigger an allergic reaction in canines. Save the human CBD oil for your use, and stick to pet CBD oil or CBD dog treats for your canine pal.
Conclusion
If your pup struggles with stiff joints, nervous behaviors, or crippling anxiety, CBD oil for dogs can be immensely helpful. Infused with one of the most well-researched compounds found in the cannabis plant, these products are easy to dose and offer a host of potential benefits. If you want CBD supplementation to enhance your pet’s well-being, consider trying the abovementioned products. Our picks were meticulously vetted and are made with safe, top-quality ingredients. Our selections have been lab-tested to eCBD Oil For Dogs: 5 Pet CBD Oils for Pain, Stress, and Overall Healthnsure purity and potency, and with a wide range of flavors and formulations, we know you’ll find one your pet loves.