Compare the Best CBD Oil for Dog Aggression

How CBD Helps With Dog Aggression 

A study by experts from the University of Western Australia shows promise for aggressive behavior in dogs⁽¹⁾. 

Results suggest that CBD may be used effectively to improve the welfare of dogs in a shelter. After 15 days of CBD administration, shelter dogs with aggressive tendencies exhibited less aggression. 

Anxiety is one of the driving forces that leads to dogs’ aggressive responses⁽²⁾. Anxiety, particularly noise reactivity, is a major reason dog owners seek help using CBD⁽³⁾.

Human and animal studies show that CBD may potentially help with anxiety-related disorders⁽⁴⁾. 

Cannabidiol or CBD is an active constituent of cannabis. While CBD is an essential component of medical marijuana, it is derived from hemp plants⁽⁵⁾. 

Cannabidiol has structural similarities to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the primary psychotropic chemical constituent in the cannabis plant that causes euphoria. However, CBD is non-psychoactive⁽⁶⁾. 

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is pervasive in mammalian species. ECS can be found everywhere in the body and functions by maintaining homeostasis for several organ systems⁽⁷⁾. 

Homeostasis is a process that living things use to maintain a stable condition while adapting to changing external environments⁽⁸⁾. 

This process is achieved through a negative feedback loop that releases the endocannabinoids as they target the cannabinoid receptors⁽⁹⁾. 

These cannabinoid receptors, namely CB1 and CB2, can be found on cells throughout the body. 

CB2 receptors are located primarily on cells in the immune system⁽¹⁰⁾. When activated, CB2 receptors stimulate a response that fights inflammation.  

Meanwhile, CB1 receptors are responsible for motor regulation and pain sensation. These types of receptors also regulate neurotransmitters⁽¹¹⁾. 

A research paper published in the Neuropharmacology journal examined a murine model of aggression. The researchers noted that CB1 receptors may mediate aggression and play a significant role in social interaction⁽¹²⁾. 

Compared to humans, dogs have a higher number of endocannabinoid receptors in their brainstem and cerebellum. These parts of the brain control coordination, respiratory rate, and heart rate⁽¹³⁾. 

Thus, dogs are more susceptible to toxicity from too much THC due to the high concentration of CB receptors and their relatively smaller size than humans⁽¹⁴⁾. 

When a dog ingests excessive levels of cannabis containing THC, it may lose muscle coordination, lose bowel and bladder control, and have difficulty with balance⁽¹⁵⁾. 

Cannabidiol may have a weak affinity to cannabinoid receptors. Nonetheless, it may have ability to modify THC’s effects, such as anxiety⁽¹⁶⁾. 

Another study from the Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry hypothesized that CBD may attenuate aggressive behavior induced by social isolation in mice⁽¹⁷⁾. 

The results of these studies may be reassuring. However, they are inconclusive. Before using CBD to manage the symptoms of dog aggression, you should first consult a veterinarian experienced in cannabis use. 

Benefits of Using CBD for Dog Aggression

Using CBD-rich hemp products is becoming popular among pet owners⁽¹⁸⁾. 

An animal study in 2019 indicated that an oral CBD-rich hemp supplement may not be detrimental to dogs⁽¹⁹⁾.   

Another study from the Pain Management in Veterinary Clinical Practice showed that dogs that received oral transmucosal CBD in addition to an anti-inflammatory drug had an improved Canine Brief Pain Inventory score⁽²⁰⁾.  

The Canine Brief Pain Inventory or Canine BPI allows dog owners to rate the degree and severity of their dog’s pain⁽²¹⁾. A dog that is in pain may also behave aggressively⁽²²⁾. 

The researchers hypothesized that the additional oral transmucosal cannabidiol to a multimodal analgesic regimen may improve a dog’s overall quality of life without severe adverse side effects⁽²³⁾. 

A study from the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research determined the pharmacokinetics of transdermally and orally administered CBD⁽²⁴⁾. 

The researchers also compared the cannabidiol plasma concentrations of three different delivery methods at two different dosages. The research was conducted under the regulations of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee⁽²⁵⁾.

Results indicated that CBD-infused oil formulation yielded higher maximal concentration and systematic exposure than the other two formulations. 

Meanwhile, lower measurable plasma levels of cannabidiol were seen in the CBD-infused transdermal cream⁽²⁶⁾. 

Several studies also examined cannabidiol’s purported analgesic effects in dogs.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common issue in dogs, particularly in large breeds and seniors. This condition may elicit joint pain due to injuries, improper nutrition, weight gain, or repetitive stress in activities⁽²⁷⁾. 

A 2018 research from the Frontiers in Veterinary Science utilized two different dosages of CBD-enriched oil (2mg/kg and 8mg/kg) to osteoarthritic dogs⁽²⁸⁾. 

The researchers also used hematology (the science of blood), serum chemistry, and physical examinations alongside CBD administration throughout the study⁽²⁹⁾.  

Results of the experiment showed considerable improvement in osteoarthritic dogs that received CBD compared to those that received a placebo⁽³⁰⁾. 

However, the researchers stated that although the short-term effect of CBD on osteoarthritic dogs may be positive, further long-term studies with larger populations are necessary to determine the long term-effects of cannabidiol-rich industrial hemp treatment⁽³¹⁾.  

A University of Kentucky study found that physiological anxiety measurements in a dog’s response to noise were not significantly different for CBD versus placebo and were worse than trazodone (a drug commonly prescribed for a dog’s anxiety)⁽³²⁾. 

Thus, CBD may also be beneficial for some dogs that experience separation anxiety⁽³³⁾.   

Although the results are promising, studies on CBD for dog aggression are still lacking. Therefore, the purported health benefits of CBD for canines are inconclusive.       

How Long Does CBD Take to Help With Dog Aggression?

The easiest way to give cannabidiol to your dog is by adding CBD oil to its food, treats, or directly to the mouth⁽³⁴⁾. You may use a calibrated dropper to dispense the oil or tincture. 

CBD’s onset usually takes about 30 minutes, and your dog should feel the effect for about four to six hours⁽³⁵⁾.  

Meanwhile, CBD treats, like dog biscuits and chews, have an average onset time of 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion⁽³⁶⁾. 

However, remember that the effect is highly dependent on your dog’s metabolism. Generally, large dogs may need larger doses of CBD for the compound to take effect⁽³⁷⁾. 

How Long Will CBD Help With Dog Aggression?

No study has determined how long CBD takes to help with dog aggression. 

However, reports indicate that the bioavailability of CBD is low when given orally to dogs and humans due to the high first-pass effect through the liver⁽³⁸⁾. 

Bioavailability is the portion of the ingested substance that can be absorbed into the bloodstream⁽³⁹⁾. 

Risk and Side Effects of Using CBD for Dog Aggression

Using cannabidiol may have negative side effects in dogs, including⁽⁴⁰⁾: 

• Diarrhea
• Lower blood pressure 
• Drowsiness

Research from the Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association showed that healthy dogs may clinically tolerate CBD. However, notable side effects like diarrhea may still occur⁽⁴¹⁾. 

In addition, CBD may increase dogs’ alkaline phosphatase enzyme (ALP) levels, possibly leading to liver damage⁽⁴²⁾. 

On the other hand, dogs intoxicated with THC may show signs of static ataxia or the inability to maintain a fixed position. This condition is unique among dogs, and although it is not fatal, it often requires supportive medical therapy⁽⁴³⁾.  

For your dog’s safety, make sure you consult with a veterinarian experienced in cannabis use before you purchase any CBD product for your dog’s aggression. 

How to Choose the Best CBD Oil for Dog Aggression

CBD pet products may contain different types of CBD or hemp extracts:

• CBD isolates 
• Broad-spectrum CBD oil
• Full-spectrum CBD oil  

Choose a broad-spectrum CBD product that contains some extracts of the cannabis plant, like terpenes and other cannabinoids⁽⁴⁴⁾.  

However, make sure to avoid full-spectrum CBD products that contain THC⁽⁴⁵⁾. 

Some CBD brands may promise a high-quality CBD oil or even offer a money-back guarantee to boost consumer confidence. 

It is essential that you know the source of the CBD extract used in the product. Check if the hemp oil or hemp extract comes from non-GMO or organic hemp. 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the hemp pilot program. The program encourages every state in the U.S.A. to propose and implement hemp farming and production in their locality⁽⁴⁶⁾.   

North Carolina, Kentucky, Oregon, and Colorado are among the states that complied with the hemp pilot program⁽⁴⁷⁾. 

Most CBD brands utilize the carbon dioxide extraction method⁽⁴⁸⁾. The process involves compressed CO2 being used as the extraction solvent. The method aims to eliminate toxic and flammable chemicals⁽⁴⁹⁾.

Most CBD products may contain additives, such as carrier oils that contribute to CBD’s possible beneficial effects. MCT coconut oil and hemp oil are the most commonly used carrier oils⁽⁵⁰⁾.  

It is crucial to assess the ingredients of the CBD pet products to be aware of the possible allergens that may trigger adverse reactions.

Your dog may be dairy or gluten intolerant. If that is the case, ensure to avoid CBD dog treats with these ingredients. 

You should also check with your veterinarian for any preservatives in the CBD treats or chews that may pose harm to your dog. 

Look for the CBD product’s certificate of analysis (COA). This way, you will know the CBD potency and consistency and the other ingredients in the product. 

CBD Dosage for Dog Aggression 

A study on the effects of Cannabis sativa L. on dogs’ aggressive behavior was published on February 2, 2021. The dosage given to each dog that participated in the experiment was calculated as follows: one drop of CBD oil per 2kg of dog weight⁽⁵¹⁾.   

However, results are inconclusive, and recommendations vary by condition or your dog’s weight. Thus, ensure to speak with an experienced veterinarian before giving cannabis to your dog to manage its aggression. 

The veterinarian may also do a physical examination to know your dog’s weight and conduct other tests to help with their diagnosis. 

Veterinary professionals can refer you to a behaviorist who can train your dog to overcome fear-related aggression, such as firework and thunderstorm fears.

How to Administer CBD for Dog Aggression 

The most common pet CBD products include⁽⁵²⁾:

• CBD-infused peanut butter
• CBD biscuits
• CBD chews
• CBD capsules 

These CBD treats are orally ingested. However, tinctures and oils give you the most control over dosing. Tinctures and oils can also be easily added to your pet’s food or drink⁽⁵³⁾. 

Dogs can also take CBD oil and tinctures topically and sublingually (under the tongue). Topical CBD products include salves and creams.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

  In 2021, a study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research showed that repeated CBD administration was well tolerated by dogs⁽⁵⁴⁾. 

However, choose only high-quality CBD pet products for your dog for overall wellness and optimal effectiveness. 

Ensure that your CBD pet products come with lab test results from a third-party lab through certificates of analysis (COAs).

All CBD products must be tested for consumers to determine CBD potency and concentration. Lab testing is necessary to check whether there are harmful contaminants, such as residual solvents and pesticides.  

Legality of CBD 

Federal law may limit how veterinarians can discuss the use of CBD oil with their clients. However, dog owners should be comfortable initiating a discussion⁽⁵⁵⁾.

Before giving your pet CBD oil for dog aggression, make sure to read individual state laws regarding CBD to avoid legal consequences. Different states may impose other regulations and statutes about the usage of CBD products. 

For instance, Colorado expanded their state law on cannabis in 2012 by legalizing the adult use of recreational marijuana⁽⁵⁶⁾. However, it is not clear whether the state permits the use of CBD for dogs. 

Meanwhile, veterinarians licensed in Nevada can administer and recommend hemp and cannabidiol products, provided that the THC content is less than 0.3%⁽⁵⁷⁾.