How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog for Anxiety? - April 2024

CBD for Dogs With Anxiety

Cannabidiol is among the alternative methods to help manage dogs’ anxiety.  

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol is a chemical compound existing in the cannabis plant. It was first isolated from the marijuana plant in 1940⁽⁵⁾.  

CBD is one of the several compounds derived from cannabis plants, also known as cannabinoids. 

However, compared to marijuana plants, hemp plants contain a significantly lower level of another cannabinoid known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC induces a more severe reaction in canines than in humans⁽⁶⁾. Meanwhile, CBD does not induce mind-altering psychoactive effects in canines, unlike THC⁽⁷⁾.  

Can CBD Reduce Dogs’ Anxiety?

Researchers have conducted limited research on the potential effects of CBD on canines. However, some studies have indicated that CBD may help relieve stress and anxiety in dogs⁽⁸⁾. 

Dog owners should consult with their veterinarians before administering CBD products to their pets. 

Animal doctors can guide them regarding the ideal CBD dosage for dogs. Note that pet owners should initiate the conversation as veterinarians are discouraged from prescribing cannabis and its derivatives to animals.

How CBD May Reduce Dogs’ Anxiety 

Studies show that CBD may induce anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety properties in canines^(9-10). For example, it may help reduce joint pain in dogs with arthritis⁽¹¹⁾. 

Cannabidiol interacts with a dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)⁽¹²⁾. CBD products such as CBD oil may thus help reduce or relieve anxiety in dogs. 

The three components of a mammal’s ECS include endogenous ligands, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. Endogenous ligands are naturally occurring molecules.  

Phytochemicals in cannabis plants may interact with an animal’s ECS. The dog’s ECS is a complex system that modulates various canine organ systems, including the immune and nervous systems. 

A dog’s ECS receptors participate in various biological processes. Such interactions help with medical conditions like anxiety⁽¹³⁾. Researchers hypothesized that certain chronic conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) result from deficiencies in CB signaling. 

In such disorders, circulating levels of CB receptors are significantly decreased⁽¹⁴⁾. Researchers have connected the decreased amount of cannabinoids to anxiety-like behaviors. For example, chronic environmental stress may down-regulate CB1 and CB2 receptors⁽¹⁵⁾. 

In a human study published in the Neuropsychopharmacology journal, subjects completed a stressful public speaking test (SPST)⁽¹⁶⁾. The researchers administered 300 mg of CBD to the subjects to treat their anxiety. 

The purified CBD produced results comparable to the anti-anxiety pharmaceutical Valium⁽¹⁷⁾. More research is needed to determine if CBD may also help alleviate environmental anxiety in canines. 

Benefits of CBD for Dogs’ Anxiety  

Research indicated that CBD may induce anti-anxiety and stress-relieving effects in dogs⁽¹⁸⁾. Cannabidiol may also help reduce seizures in dogs with epilepsy⁽¹⁹⁾.   

A 2020 canine study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science evaluated the effects of CBD dog treats in dogs undergoing a fear response test⁽²⁰⁾. The study implemented a fireworks model noise-induced fear response test. Other loud noises such as thunderstorms and traffic may also frighten dogs. 

The study suggested that CBD may have potential as an alternative anti-anxiety treatment for dogs with anxiety. However, more research is needed on CBD’s efficacy in improving a dog’s wellness and reducing dog anxiety.

Meanwhile, hemp plant extracts may help reduce aggressiveness in dogs, according to a 2021 study⁽²¹⁾. It examined the effects of CBD on stress-related behaviors. 

The control group received a mixture of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and CBD, while the placebo group received EVOO only.

The results suggested that CBD did not reduce stress-related behavior, although it seemed to decrease aggressive behavior⁽²²⁾. 

The researchers noted that additional research is necessitated to implement studies with larger sample sizes and combinations of CBD administration with behavioral therapy. 

Canine aggression may be anxiety-induced⁽²³⁾. Thus, reducing aggression in dogs may consequently help lessen their anxiety. 

A canine study published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) investigated the efficacy of CBD and traditional antiepileptic therapy for reducing seizures in dogs with epilepsy⁽²⁴⁾. 

The 26 subjects were randomly placed in the control or placebo group.

The CBD group experienced 33% less seizures than the placebo group⁽²⁵⁾. 

Dogs may experience anxiety in particular scenarios following seizures⁽²⁶⁾. Thus, additional research is needed on the potential use of CBD following epileptic seizures in dogs.  

Factors to Consider Before Giving CBD to Dogs

Pet owners considering whether to administer CBD to their canines have various issues to contemplate, such as the ideal CBD oil dosage. 

Types of CBD for Dogs’ Anxiety

There are three types of CBD products::

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: This CBD oil from full-spectrum hemp contains several cannabis plant extracts, such as cannabinoids (including CBD and THC), flavonoids, and terpenes. Flavonoids are plant pigments, and terpenes are aromatic compounds.

It is highly advisable to avoid administering full-spectrum CBD oil to dogs, as THC may poison canines⁽²⁷⁾. 

Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: These CBD oils contain numerous naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant. However, they are usually THC-free.  

CBD Isolate Oil: CBD isolates are pure CBD and usually contain no other cannabinoids. 

CBD Administration Methods

CBD products for dogs are usually available in forms such as:

• CBD oil
• CBD capsules
• CBD tinctures 
• CBD topical rubs
• CBD edibles (dog treats and dog biscuits) 

One CBD product available is hemp oil, produced by extracting oil contained in hemp plants. Hemp oil technically differs from hempseed oil. Hempseed oil is extracted from hemp seeds, which do not have CBD. 

Dog owners can select from various methods to administer CBD for anxiety.

Some dogs may dislike the “earthy” flavor of cannabidiol. Thus, CBD dog treats, such as soft chews may provide a practical alternative for such canines. They also provide a more consistent CBD dosage. 

However, CBD edibles must pass through the canine digestive system, producing a slower efficacy than other products such as CBD oils. 

Meanwhile, CBD capsules offer a greater fixed dose of CBD than forms such as CBD oil. This feature may make it easier to achieve the desired effects from CBD. 

Pet’s Size 

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided no dosage guidelines for various canine body weights or dog breeds. 

However, some pet CBD brands provide dosage charts based on a dog’s weight. 

How to Give CBD Oil to Dogs With Anxiety

Pet owners may administer CBD pet products in various ways. They include using a dropper to apply the substance directly to the canine’s mouth. Other options for dog CBD oil include blending CBD oil with dog food and CBD dog treats. 

How Long CBD Takes to Begin Working in Dogs With Anxiety

Researchers have conducted no studies on the amount of time for CBD to induce noticeable effects in dogs with anxiety.  

How Long Does CBD’s Effects Last in Dogs With Anxiety?

Researchers have not conducted any medical studies on how long CBD’s effects last in dogs with anxiety. 

Still, a significant amount of research has been done on the duration of CBD’s effects in dogs.

A 2018 canine study showed that CBD oil had a terminal half-life between four and five hours⁽²⁸⁾. Half-life is the amount of time required for a substance to be reduced by half in the body. 

This result suggested CBD’s bioavailability with a dosage schedule of 2mg/kg of body weight taken at least twice daily⁽²⁹⁾. Bioavailability is defined as the extent to which a substance becomes completely available to an intended biological destination. 

It is advisable to consult one’s veterinarian about the proper dosage and usage of CBD in dogs with anxiety.  

How Much CBD Should I Give My Dog for Anxiety?

The FDA has not set any dosage guidelines for CBD use in dogs with anxiety, including how much CBD oil to administer.  

However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends a beginning dosage of around 0.1 to 0.2mg per kilogram of a dog’s body weight⁽³⁰⁾. 

Suppose one administers 0.2mg of CBD oil per kg of body weight to a 50kg canine. The dosage should be 5mg of CBD. 

Dog owners can then gradually increase the CBD dosage until they achieve the desired results. 

However, AKC suggests not indiscriminately increasing the dosage for one’s “furry friend,” as it may produce a biphasic effect.

In other words, CBD may produce ineffective results if the dosage includes overly high or low doses.  

CBD Dosage for Dogs With Anxiety

Ensure to conduct dosage calculations and consult a veterinarian before giving a dog higher doses, such as 10mg of CBD.  

CBD Dosage by Dogs’ Sizes

When picking a CBD dose for one’s pet dog, it is critical to consider their size in terms of weight. One option is to commence with a low dosage then gradually increase it until one gets the desired effects.  

One option is to use this rule of thumb: administer 0.1mg to 0.2mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight⁽³¹⁾. Individuals can use CBD with this dosage for canines, including:

• Small dogs
• Medium-sized dogs
• Large dogs  

When selecting a CBD dosage for various dog sizes, consider these factors:

Dog’s Metabolic Rate: Smaller dogs have faster metabolism⁽³²⁾. Thus, one’s veterinarian may suggest more frequent dosages for smaller dogs. 

Frequency of Dosages: There is no standard CBD dosage for dogs. However, a 2020 study on canine response to frightening sounds involved researchers administering CBD dog treats to the subjects twice daily⁽³³⁾. 

The researchers recommended that future studies be conducted using increasing doses of CBD to measure the substance’s possible anti-anxiety effects.

Dog owners should seek their veterinarian’s advice about how often to give their dogs CBD oil for anxiety.

Increased and Maximum Dosage: Individuals should consult their veterinarian on the recommended daily dose increases and maximums, based on the dog’s size. 

They may recommend increasing the dog’s dosage to achieve the desired anti-anxiety effects. Dog owners should monitor their pet’s behavior to surmise the efficacy of CBD for anxiety.

Owners of large dogs may follow the dosage recommendations for medium-large dogs. 

How to Calculate the CBD Dose 

When calculating the beginning CBD dosage, one may commence with AKC’s recommended dosage of about 0.1mg to 0.2mg of CBD per kilogram of the dog’s body weight⁽³⁴⁾.   

A dog’s regular dose may be lower or higher, depending on whether the initial levels are well tolerated. 

Another factor to consider is the concentration of CBD oil. This figure is related to the amount of CBD contained in the product. 

An online dosage calculator can also calculate CBD doses. 

CBD and Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, and Safety 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has concluded that CBD is a safe and non-toxic substance that offers various health benefits for humans⁽³⁵⁾.

In addition, the U.S. FDA has not approved CBD for dogs and has not issued a dosing CBD chart⁽³⁶⁾. Thus, it is unknown what size dosage can be toxic for canines.

However, high CBD doses, such as 1,000mg may pose more risks to dogs. Dog owners should consult with their canine’s veterinarian regarding the proper dosage. 

CBD overdose may also happen even with seemingly harmless products like CBD oil and canine hemp treats. High doses of hemp treats may cause symptoms such as dehydration and diarrhea⁽³⁷⁾. 

Possible side effects dogs may experience after being administered CBD include⁽³⁸⁾:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Lower blood pressure

Meanwhile, prescription medications may induce various side effects and adverse reactions in pets⁽³⁹⁾. 

CBD Dosage Guidelines and Tips

Here are some guidelines and tips for administering CBD to one’s dog:

• Consult with a veterinarian about an ideal dosage depending on how much CBD a dog needs. This amount may be based on the severity of health conditions such as anxiety. 
• Look for high-quality CBD for dogs sourced from organic hemp. Another option is cannabidiol with no genetically modified organisms (non-GMO). 
• Talk with a veterinarian about the right dosage and possible adverse effects produced through drug interactions. 
• Consider a starting point with the right dose, then gradually increase the CBD dosage.  
• When selecting the right CBD products based on situational factors, the potency indicates CBD’s possible biological effects. 
• Higher CBD potencies produce more significant effects. Some CBD brands offer various potencies for dogs with particular body weights. Thus, individuals should periodically record their pet’s weight. 

• Follow dosage guidelines on a product’s label. For example, the dosage size of CBD dog treats may vary based on the product’s concentration. 
• Individuals can consult their dog’s veterinarian.

Does CBD Oil for Dogs Vary From CBD Oil for Humans? 

Pet owners should avoid CBD products containing THC as it produces an intoxicating effect. 

THC is often contained in CBD edibles⁽⁴⁰⁾. These products may also include ingredients dangerous to dogs, such as chocolate and artificial sweeteners⁽⁴¹⁾. 

THC may induce a condition in dogs known as THC toxicosis. Possible symptoms include⁽⁴²⁾: 

• Vomiting
• Head-bobbing  
• Slow heart rate 
• Higher sensitivity to sounds or motions
• Excessive drooling
• Dilated pupils 

Signs That Dogs May Be Anxious

Here are some potential symptoms that a dog may be anxious⁽⁴³⁾:

• Drooling
• Restlessness
• Pacing
• Repetitive or compulsive behavior
• Panting
• Aggression
• Excessive barking
• Depression
• Destructive behavior

These symptoms may result from past or current anxiety-inducing effects⁽⁴⁴⁾. Aggression is the most severe symptom of dog anxiety. It includes indirect aggression, which stems from when a person is situated between the dog and the source of its hostility.

Dog anxiety may also exhibit destructive behavior, such as damages at a home’s entry and exit points⁽⁴⁵⁾. Anxious dogs also risk painful injuries when attempting to break out of crates, windows, and doors. 

FAQs

1. How can CBD oil benefit a dog’s health?

CBD may provide health benefits in dogs, such as reduced anxiety and pain relief^(46-47). More research is needed regarding the potential health benefits of CBD for canines. 

2. Will CBD mentally affect dogs? 

CBD may provide mental benefits for dogs by inducing anti-anxiety and stress-reducing effects in dogs⁽⁴⁸⁾. Moreover, CBD does not induce the same psychoactive effects as THC⁽⁴⁹⁾.  

3. Is CBD safe for dogs?

Researchers have conducted no definitive studies on the safety and risks of CBD for dogs⁽⁵⁰⁾. Thus, it is advisable to start with a small dosage of the substance. Consulting one’s veterinarian before administering CBD to one’s pet is highly advised.

4. What makes a quality CBD oil?

Here are some of the features to look for:

• CBD products made from organic hemp
• Third-party lab tests with a certificate of analysis (COA)
• Non-GMO CBD with no harmful additives or chemicals, including pesticides, solvents, and heavy metals

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