How to Give a Dog CBD

How to Give a Dog CBD Oil: Tips & Techniques

The best way to give a dog CBD oil is orally. This guide will cover various methods and techniques on how to give a dog CBD oil effectively.

CBDNerds Staff Updated on May 11, 2022

If you’re wondering how to give a dog CBD oil, rest assured you are not alone. Pet owners everywhere are curious about the benefits of CBD and the best ways to administer it.

You may know by now that CBD may be a safe and healthy alternative to treat pets with anxiety or arthritis. CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis sativa and cannabis indica. It does not possess any psychoactive reaction because it doesn’t contain any THC. The non-psychoactive properties found in CBD are extracted from the hemp plant and not cannabis.

CBD Pet Benefits

If your pet suffers from anxiety or arthritis, CBD may soothe them and help them stay relaxed and calm. Dogs are over-vigilant when there is any new stress brought into their home. Moreover, dogs are generally overprotective animals, and these stressors will heighten their anxiety.

Older pets have a higher risk of developing certain cancers or arthritis. If you have a particular breed that is more susceptible to health problems, you may be able to prevent symptoms or at least ease them by using organic CBD.

If you’re considering giving your pet CBD, here are some tips on how to administer it safely:

1.) Start Slow

Always begin with a low dose of CBD and monitor how your dog reacts to it. Follow the dosage instructions on the label as they can vary depending on the product, but they will be specific on how to give dogs CBD oil. Manufacturers recommend that your pet starts with 1 milligram of CBD per 10 pounds of animal weight. Once you see how your dog reacts to the dosage, you can increase it as needed.

2.) Use CBD Oil

CBD oil is convenient and is easily mixed in food or given straight. The oil absorbs into the body through the liver and produces long-lasting effects. It is never advised to give your pet cannabis in smoke form. CBD oil will work in wet or dry food, but wet is preferred because it mixes well, and if it has a taste, your dog won’t notice. The oil is also wholly absorbed into the food so you can rest assured your dog is getting the full dose.

CBD oil can be given twice a day in their food or mixed in their water. The problem with mixing it in water is that dogs usually don’t drink all of their water in one sitting. If that’s the case, your pet will not have received the full dose. If you’re using CBD to treat a dog with cancer, the water method is not recommended since it’s imperative that the complete dosage instructions are followed.

To guarantee your pet is getting the right amount of CBD you can also administer it on top of their favorite treats. Just be sure to use a porous treat so the oil can fully absorb, dog biscuits are a great option.

3.) Go Organic

If your dog is suffering from an ailment, exposing them to harmful pesticides will be detrimental to their health. Look for products that are organically sourced and contain no additives or preservatives. You also want to make sure the oil is lab-tested to ensure it is high-quality, uses food-grade ingredients, and is free of contaminants. We recommend trying Holistapet.

4.) Administer CBD Directly in The Mouth

Administering orally will ensure your dog is getting the full recommended dose of CBD. This process is the quickest and most effective method, especially if you are looking to reduce anxiety. Most CBD for dogs is available in flavors that cater to their pallet. However, if you have a dog who won’t cooperate or stay still long enough, dropping the oil in his food or treats is probably the best option.

5.) Do Your Research

The search for the right CBD product for your pet must be done the same way as you would for yourself. Start with a reputable brand like CBDfx. Stick with products that use clean extraction methods or professional ethanol extraction. Try to choose CBD from high-resin plants instead of low-grade industrial CBD isolates.

It’s also a good rule of thumb to read reviews and comments on the CBD product that you’re considering using. Pet owners will often share their own experiences and tips on how to give a dog CBD oil.

6.) Talk to Your Veterinarian

You should always consult your vet before introducing any new product into your pet’s diet. Many vets are on board with using CBD for pet health and are aware of its benefits. Your veterinarian may even have additional pointers on how to give your dog CBD oil and alert you to any side effects since they are familiar with your pet’s medical history.

 7.) Try CBD-Infused Dog Treats

Our final tip on how to give a dog CBD oil? You guessed it, treats! CBD treats are a wonderful option if you are unsuccessful at sneaking the CBD oil into your dog’s food or administering it directly into their mouth. You can make your own treats by adding CBD oil directly to the recipe, often with ingredients like pumpkin, oats, or peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free). However, be aware baking treats at high temperatures may cause the oil to evaporate (if not done properly), so it’s better with treats that can be baked at low temperatures, or raw treats.

What are the Best CBD Pet Brands?

If you’re looking for a good brand to purchase your pet CBD products from, we recommend:


Frequently Asked Questions

How frequently you give your furry friend CBD will depend on a few factors: the ailment you are treating, the size of your dog, and the dosage you are administering. Generally, it is best to start with a small dose once a day, and incrementally increase the dose over time. However, if your dog suffers from pain or related ailments, CBD can be administered every 8 hours or as needed.