CBD for Pets: Not Just a Human Trend

CBD for Dogs: Not Just for Humans Anymore?

CBD (cannabidiol) has become a major player in natural wellness for humans — and now it's making its way into the pet care world. From calming anxious dogs to easing joint discomfort, CBD is gaining traction with pet parents who want safe, gentle alternatives to traditional medications.

What Is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound extracted from the hemp plant, a variety of Cannabis sativa. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make your pet feel “high” or sedated when used correctly.

CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) — a complex network of receptors found in the brain, organs, immune system, and nervous system. This system helps regulate balance in key bodily functions like mood, appetite, sleep, pain response, and immune function. Dogs and humans both have this system, which is why CBD can affect them similarly.

What Does CBD Do in Dogs?

When introduced into your dog’s system, CBD may support:

Calmness and reduced anxiety during stressful events (vet visits, loud noises, separation)
Pain relief from arthritis or other joint conditions
Reduced inflammation in chronic conditions or injuries
Improved mobility in aging or stiff dogs
Digestive balance and potential nausea relief

Some pet owners also report improvements in seizure frequency or skin irritation, though more research is still needed in those areas.

Is It Safe?

When sourced from trustworthy brands and used in proper dosages, CBD is generally considered safe for dogs. However, pet CBD products are not all created equal. Look for:

Products made specifically for pets (not human formulas)
CBD derived from organic hemp
Clear labeling with third-party lab results
THC-free or < 0.3% THC to avoid any psychoactive effects

What Do Vets Say?

Veterinary views on CBD are evolving. While some vets are embracing it as part of integrative care, others remain cautious due to the limited scope of long-term research. That said, several studies have shown promise in using CBD to manage pain, inflammation, and anxiety in dogs.

It’s always best to consult your veterinarian before starting any CBD regimen, especially if your dog is on other medications or has underlying health conditions.

Choosing the Right Product

CBD for dogs comes in many forms: tinctures, treats, chews, balms, and even soft gels. Reputable brands like Charlotte’s Web, HolistaPet, Honest Paws, and Super Snouts offer pet-specific formulas that are easier to dose and digest.

Start low and go slow: Begin with the minimum suggested dose and observe your pet’s response over several days.

References:

McGrath S, et al. “Pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol in Dogs.” Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018.
Vaughn DM, et al. “Effects of cannabidiol on osteoarthritic dogs.” Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, 2020.
American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Health Foundation CBD studies summary, 2023
AVMA and ASPCA updates on pet CBD safety and dosing, 2024

This post is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing CBD or any supplement to your dog’s routine.

Treats That Should Be Marketed for Both Dogs and Cats

Treats That Should Be Marketed for Both Dogs and Cats Because good ingredients don’t need a species label. We live in a world where dogs steal cat treats and cats nibble on dog jerky—and the truth is, many treats don’t need to be separated by species at all. Especially in multi-pet homes, the overlap in healthy, species-appropriate ingredients is huge. So why are treats marketed so differently? Why the Divide Exists Short answer: marketing and money. The pet industry thrives on duplication—more labels, more packaging, more sales. But if you read the back of a high-quality single-ingredient cat treat and compare it to a dog treat… they’re often identical. Dogs are scavenging carnivores, cats are obligate carnivores, and both benefit from meat-first, low-carb, additive-free snacks. Treats That Are Perfect for Both Dogs and Cats 🐟 Freeze-Dried Fish (Salmon, Minnow, Whitefish) Why it works: High in Omega-3s, supports joint and coat health, and irresistible to both speci...

Cultivated Meat & Pet Food Innovation in 2025

Next-Gen Pet Food: Cultivated Meat and Feeding Innovations in 2025 If 2025 proved anything, it’s that the future of pet food is already here. Beyond fresh meals and functional chews, the year brought bold innovations — including the world’s first retail launch of cultivated meat for pets. These breakthroughs aren’t just about novelty; they’re reshaping how we think about sustainability, animal welfare, and the way we feed our companions. Meatly: Cultivated Meat Arrives The star innovation of the year came from Meatly , the first company to bring cultivated meat into the pet food aisle. Teaming up with UK-based brand THE PACK and available at Pets at Home Brentford, Meatly introduced the world’s first retail-ready cultivated chicken ingredient in pet food. Cultivated meat, sometimes called “lab-grown meat,” is produced by taking a small sample of animal cells and growing them in a nutrient-rich environment. The result? Real animal protein without the need to raise and slaught...

Science Diet’s Microbiome Support: Worth the Hype?

Science Diet’s Microbiome Launch — What Does It Really Change? Science Diet recently introduced its new “Microbiome” formulas, featuring prebiotics and specialty fiber blends (ActivBiome+). Many pet parents are wondering: does this update meaningfully improve the food — or is it mostly a marketing refresh? What Is Microbiome Nutrition? The gut microbiome is the community of trillions of microbes living in the digestive tract. These bacteria influence: Nutrient absorption Immune system regulation Skin and coat health Behavior via the gut–brain axis Hill’s ActivBiome+ adds prebiotics (fermentable fibers) intended to feed beneficial gut bacteria, which can help with stool quality and gas control when paired with an overall balanced diet. Why quality matters in dog food: would you rather feed better? The Ingredient Concern Despite the microbiome-forward marketing, many Science Diet formulas still list corn, wheat, or animal by-pro...

Pet Digest

Search This Blog