CBD Dosage for Dogs: A Guide on How Much CBD To Give Dogs
Airi Macaluso
Medical Hemp Expert, Hemp Wellness Consultant, and Long-Time Cannabinoid Writer
Looking to learn more about CBD for dogs? Just like it’s been making waves in human wellness, CBD, or cannabidiol, is stepping out onto the doggie runway. Known for its calming effects and potential health benefits, it’s not just a trend, but a tail-wagging revolution in pet care.
CBD is a natural soothing compound within the hemp plant; it’s THC’s goody-two-shoes sibling, and it’s all about the wellness benefits without the high.
The secret to CBD’s potential benefits lies in its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the “conductor” of the body’s balance. CBD is like a guest conductor, helping the ECS produce more of its own cannabinoids for harmonious bodily functions.
From thunderstorm fears to joint discomfort, CBD is a natural remedy with the potential to make your pup’s tail wag just a little bit harder. CBD has been around for thousands (yes, thousands) of years, and has long, long been used as a natural way to support wellness.
Now that it’s making a splash in the pet world, some dog owners aren’t sure what to think. Is CBD actually helpful and safe for dogs? How much CBD should I give my dog?
Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know about finding the right amount of CBD for dogs.
Does CBD Work for Dogs?
Yes, CBD does work for dogs — and in fact, it might be the perfect addition to their daily routine.
CBD works its magic by playing nice with a crucial system in your pup’s body, the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Imagine the ECS as a complex network of receptors, like mini mailboxes scattered throughout your dog’s body. These mailboxes receive messages about what’s happening in the body and send back orders to maintain balance (a bit like a furry postmaster general, if you will).
Now, enter CBD, the new kid on the block. Instead of sending its own letters, it simply encourages the body to send more of its own. These letters are endocannabinoids, the body’s natural equivalents to CBD. When CBD oil (or a chew or tincture) is administered, it supports the production of these endocannabinoids. This, in turn, supports proper communication in the body and a happy, balanced pup.
Recommended amounts of CBD will vary by age, weight, and wellness concerns of the animal in question, but the bottom line is that CBD can be beneficial.
Long story short: CBD does work for dogs — just like it helps you chill out, it can help your dog chill out, too.
From soothing worried pups during storms or fireworks to easing nervousness during car rides or separation and supporting joint health during walks and playtime, CBD could be the perfect source of wellness support for your dog.
What Are the Benefits of CBD for Dogs?
Dogs will benefit from CBD in ways similar to how people benefit from CBD. There are two primary wellness benefits most pet parents seek when using CBD for their dogs.
1. Supporting a Calm Mood
From thunderstorms to fireworks, construction, or family gatherings at your home, many scenarios that are just part of life for us humans are nightmare fuel for our furry friends.
Car rides and travel, too, can lead to nervousness in our furry friends, but even something as run-of-the-mill as a day of errands can be worry-inducing — the time spent alone can lead to separation stress.
These situations can be scary and overwhelming for our pups — they can’t understand that it’s only temporary and nothing to fret over.
Some dogs are eager travel companions, but others don’t like riding in the car (at all). They may associate the car ride with trips to the vet, or the change of scenery might simply throw them off. Many people use heavy meds to get their dogs to sleep through travel days, but what if we told you that isn’t your only option?
CBD can help keep your dog chilled and soothed through tough situations. When used along with a fun distraction, like their favorite chew toy, your dog may even stop reacting to the situation altogether.
2. Supporting Joint Health
Some dogs are more prone to joint discomfort than others. The potential for joint discomfort increases with age, and older dogs may have difficulty sleeping because they can’t find a comfortable position. They might walk in circles around their bed or change sleeping spots frequently, for example. They may also be slow when climbing stairs or getting up on the couch with you — and all of the signs can be upsetting for both you and your dog.
CBD can work to ease tension or discomfort associated with your dog’s joints, and can even work to support their joint health as a whole. With some help from CBD, your dog may get a blissful night of sleep and might even feel more inclined to participate in active play.
Resident Veritas Farms CBD expert Airi Macaluso notes that holistic support can boast a lot of benefits for dogs who experience joint discomfort.
“CBD can take the edge off, while a wholesome dog food can provide their bodies with the vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and proteins your dog’s body needs to maintain itself. It’s also important to keep your dog at a healthy weight for their breed. It’s a totally natural recipe for relief,” says Macaluso.
What Are Some CBD Oil and Tincture Serving Guidelines?
The right amount of CBD oil for dogs is typically determined based on your dog’s weight. The general rule of thumb is that large dogs are able to have larger amounts, while the right dosage for little furry friends is lower.
The standard recommendation is 0.2 mg of CBD per pound of your dog’s weight. If you’re having trouble weighing your dog, stand on your scale, and record your weight. Then, stand on it again while holding your dog (if this is possible), and record that weight. Subtract the first number from the second number, and the remainder is a good approximation of your dog’s weight.
Measure your dog’s dosage with the CBD oildropper, and use this sample dosing chart to make things even easier.
|
Pounds of Body Weight |
Proper CBD Dosage |
|
10 lbs |
2 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
15 lbs |
3 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
20 lbs |
4 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
25 lbs |
5 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
30 lbs |
6 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
35 lbs |
7 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
|
40 lbs |
8 mg of CBD every 8 hours or when needed |
What Are the Serving Guidelines for CBD Dog Chews?
CBD dog chews contain pre-measured doses of CBD to help keep your dog feeling chill during worrisome situations.
They shouldn’t be used as regular dog treats, though. Start low and see how it goes — kick things off by giving your dog one CBD chew a day, and take note of how they’re acting and feeling. Some doggos will need more to get the benefits — if your pup is over 50 pounds, two chews may be the perfect serving, while even larger dogs over 76 pounds may need three or four.
Designate one person in your household to give your dog their daily CBD chew to avoid accidentally giving your dog too much CBD. If you have children in your house, keep your dog’s CBD chews in a place where your children can’t get to them — this will help prevent the kiddos from giving your dog too many CBD chews as a treat (even if your dog really is a very good boy or girl).
Will CBD Get My Dog High?
CBD won’t get your dog high — contrary to traditional cannabis products, which contain more than 0.3% THC by dry weight and definitely shouldn’tbe given to dogs, CBD only contains trace amounts of THC, if any.
You should, however, still be sure to store your CBD products in a place where your dog can’t access them. If your dog eagerly eats an entire bag of CBD chews while you’re not there to catch them, they won’t be in danger… they’ll just be either a major sleepyhead or a major ball of energy.
Can All Dogs Use Pet CBD?
Most dogs can use CBD to help ease nerves, support joint health, and generally keep their tail wagging for many years to come.
An increasing number of vets are researching the benefits of CBD for dogs, preferring it as a safe and natural way to reduce feelings of stress, support joint health, skin health, and a calm mood.
Issues with regulations surrounding cannabinoids for veterinary use often prevent vets from directly recommending CBD for dogs.
That said, some veterinarians will happily discuss the potential benefits of CBD for dogs. After all, it can be a valuable part of your dog’s holistic wellness routine.
It’s best to give CBD oil with food just in case your pup has a particularly sensitive tummy — or you can just reach for CBD chews, instead. Monitor your dog for side effects that might indicate that CBD oil upsets their stomach — if it does, stop giving your dog CBD oil, and the issue should resolve on its own.
Consult your vet before giving your dog CBD if they are taking any medications. If your dog’s use of medication is temporary, wait until they’ve finished their course of medication. If their medication is for long-term use, ask your vet about any known conflicts between your dog’s meds and CBD.
The Drool-Worthy Wrap-Up
You likely follow a multi-step wellness routine every day. You probably want to extend the same love and care to the four-legged members of your family. If you feel like CBD helps you get through the day, your dog might have a similar experience.
CBD pet products can help you give your pet the holistic wellness support they deserve. Choose a form of CBD that’s right for your dog and follow the dosage chart for your pet’s weight.
Sources:
The Endocannabinoid System of Animals | National Institutes of Health
How to Talk to Your Veterinarian About CBD Oil for Dogs | American Kennel Club
