Does your pup get scared when lightning strikes? Do they pout at the door feeling as though you abandoned them every time you go out? If so, it may be time to give your dog CBD to treat anxiety.
More dog owners are using cannabidiol (CBD) to help manage anxiety and stress in their pets. While veterinary approval is still limited, many report noticeable improvements in their dogs’ behavior. This interest aligns with growing research into how CBD may affect dogs, particularly in calming nervous or anxious responses.
This article explains how cannabidiol can support your dog’s stress-related issues and highlights what the best CBD for dog anxiety is.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network in the body that helps manage mood, stress, and other functions. In humans, CBD is believed to support balance within the ECS, which may explain its calming effects.
Dogs also have an ECS, and early studies suggest CBD may work similarly in their systems. Research into CBD for dog anxiety is still in its early stages, but some findings are promising:
While this research is still developing and results may vary, many pet owners are already exploring CBD as a possible support tool for anxious dogs.
| Extract Type | Full-spectrum |
| Total CBD Range | 125mg - 1000mg |
| Potency Variations | 4.2mg - 33.33mg per serving |
| Price Range | $39.95 - $99.95 |
| Value ($/mg) | $0.10 - $0.32 per mg |
| THC Content | <0.3% |
| Lab Report | View Report |
| Flavor Variations | 1 |
| Potency Variations | 4 |
| Extract Type | Broad-spectrum |
| Total CBD Range | 300mg - 600mg |
| Potency Range | 10mg - 20mg per serving |
| Price Range | $29.99 - $39.99 |
| Value ($/mg) | $0.07 - $0.10 |
| THC Content | 0.0% |
| Lab Report | On individual product pages |
| Flavor Variations | 3 |
| Potency Variations | 2 |
| Extract Type | Full-spectrum |
| Total CBD Range | 300mg - 1800mg |
| Potency Range | 30mg per serving |
| Price Range | $19.00 - $89.00 |
| Value ($/mg) | $0.05 - $0.06 per mg |
| THC Content | <0.3% |
| Lab Report | View Report |
| Flavor Variations | 1 |
| Potency Variations | 1 |
| Extract Type | Broad-spectrum |
| Total CBD Range | 150mg - 600mg |
| Potency Range | 5mg - 20mg per chew |
| Price Range | $29.95 - $64.95 |
| Value ($/mg) | $0.11 - $0.20 |
| THC Content | 0.0% |
| Lab Report | N/A |
| Flavor Variations | 1 |
| Potency Variations | 3 |
Finding the right dosage for your dog can be tricky because dogs vary widely in size and sensitivity. Most CBD brands include dosage guidelines on their packaging. If your dog is new to CBD, start with the recommended amount and observe how they respond.
If the initial dose doesn’t seem effective, don’t worry. Dosage needs can differ due to several factors:
Below is a helpful chart showing general dosage guidelines based on your dog’s body weight:
| Weight | Low Dose | Medium Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 1mg | 3mg | 5mg |
| 20 lbs | 2mg | 6mg | 10mg |
| 30 lbs | 3mg | 8mg | 15mg |
| 40 lbs | 4mg | 10mg | 20mg |
| 50 lbs | 5mg | 12mg | 25mg |
| 60 lbs | 6mg | 14mg | 30mg |
| 70 lbs | 7mg | 16mg | 35mg |
| 80 lbs | 8mg | 18mg | 40mg |
| 90 lbs | 9mg | 20mg | 45mg |
| 100 lbs | 10mg | 24mg | 50mg |
To create our list, we used the following criteria. If you’re considering a CBD product not included here, these points can help you make a smart choice.
Since the CBD industry is mostly unregulated, trustworthy brands test their products through third-party labs. These tests produce a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), showing the cannabinoid content and checking for contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides. We prioritize brands that share CoAs openly and test every batch.
Reading customer reviews gives real-world insight into how a product works for dogs with anxiety. These firsthand experiences often reveal effectiveness and any issues, helping you set expectations before buying.
CBD comes in three main extraction methods:
Some dogs are sensitive to THC, so broad-spectrum or isolate products may be safer for them. If you want your dog to benefit from all hemp compounds working together (the entourage effect), full-spectrum is the way to go.
Where the hemp comes from matters. Some brands grow their own hemp on their farms, which often means better quality control. Others source from local farms that use organic practices. Both options are good if the brand provides clear information about their hemp source and farming methods.
Most CBD oils include a carrier oil, hemp extract, and flavoring. Some products (like treats) may add other active ingredients, such as chamomile. Always check the ingredient list to ensure nothing could cause an allergy or clash with your dog’s diet. Doing a quick check on added ingredients helps keep your dog safe and comfortable.
CBD is becoming a popular option for helping dogs manage anxiety and stress. While research is still developing, many pet owners see positive results. Choosing the right product means considering factors like dosage, extract type, and ingredient quality. Always look for products with transparent lab testing and read customer reviews to guide your decision.
Remember, every dog is different. Start with a low dose and watch how your dog responds before making any changes. If you have concerns, consult your veterinarian to ensure CBD is safe and appropriate for your pup.
With careful choices and attention, CBD may offer a natural way to support your dog’s calm and comfort.
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In accordance with our list, FAB CBD’s Dog Treats are considered the best due to their leveled potency and delicious flavors.
CBD has been shown to be effective in relieving dog anxiety, but research remains slim. That said, we recommend giving a product a try in order to determine if it can help your pup.
Since research is limited, veterinarians are likely NOT going to recommend, administer, prescribe, or dispense CBD for dogs. Still, this doesn’t place CBD products completely off the table. It simply means more research is necessary before vets are allowed to recommend these products.
