Can Dogs Overdose on CBD? Risks and Precautions
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Time to read 8 min
You were busy working on your PC when your fur baby got hold of dog CBD and ingested every drop. Or in the rush to ease your pup's anxiety or chronic pain, you unknowingly give one extra dropper of CBD oil or more CBD treats than recommended. Now you are wondering, can dogs overdose on CBD?
Pet owners should be concerned if they purchase CBD products without clear dosing instructions. Some have CBD products meant for human consumption, and think that they can share human CBD with their fur babies.
In this article, we will discuss what is considered a CBD overdose in dogs, if dogs can overdose on CBD, symptoms to look for, risks and precautions you should be aware of, and what to do if they consume too much. Let's dive in!
Table of Content
Can Dogs Overdose on CBD? Signs of Too Much CBD in Dogs What to Do If Your Dog Takes Too Much CBD A Safe Way to Give CBD to Dogs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Can CBD kill a dog? How much CBD is too much for a dog? Can dogs build a tolerance to CBD? Conclusion: Can Dogs Overdose on CBD? Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
Can Dogs Overdose on CBD?
Yes, dogs may experience negative side effects if they take too much CBD product, though it’s rarely fatal. Symptoms of CBD overdose in dogs include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, dilated pupils, and, in severe cases, loss of coordination or seizures. The risk depends on the dose, the dog’s size, and the THC content in the CBD product.
What does overdosing mean?
A dog CBD overdose means giving your fur baby more CBD than their body can safely handle, i.e., the recommended dosage, either intentionally or accidentally. However, you may still notice some side effects at the standard dose, thus the need for standard dosage modification.
That said, a dog is highly unlikely to overdose on high-quality, pet-formulated CBD oil, especially when it’s dosed correctly and doesn't contain THC. Why? Because pure CBD on its own isn't toxic to dogs in typical therapeutic doses. The real issue often lies in:
Low-quality CBD products
Poor labeling
CBD oils meant for humans that contain THC
Since we're discussing dogs overdosing on CBD, it is important to differentiate between THC toxicity and taking too much CBD. It's also important to note that side effects can occur at the correct dose—any individual may react to something most other dogs don't, so owners need to consider any unusual signs after giving, especially if they are adding to the regimen.
Why isn't it safe to share human CBD with your furry friend? Human CBD is derived from marijuana and has a higher THC content. THC is a psychoactive compound in cannabis that gets people high, and unfortunately, dogs are more sensitive to it. When you give your fur baby human CBD products, the risk of THC toxicity is high.
Safe CBD products for dogs should contain no more than 0.3% THC.
What are the signs of CBD overdose in dogs? Let's discuss this next.
Signs of Too Much CBD in Dogs
Your four-legged friend may find their way to the box of CBD treats and gobble them up, or you may have made a slight miscalculation and given them too much. We understand if you panic. Even though dogs tolerate hemp-derived CBD products well, products with a high amount of THC or giving extremely high doses of CBD can cause the following adverse reactions:
Lethargy or excessive sedation
Loss of coordination, i.e., difficulty standing and wobbling when walking
Low blood pressure, causing your dog to be weak, dizzy, or disoriented
Upset stomach (vomiting, diarrhea)
ALP, a liver enzyme, can increase
Although THC toxicity is rare for high-quality dog CBD, it is important to start with a lower dose when introducing CBD to your fur baby, monitor for reactions, and adjust dosage.
What to Do If Your Dog Takes Too Much CBD
- If your curious pup got into a stash of CBD treats and ate several, they may experience some discomfort, but it’s unlikely to be life-threatening.
- The first and most important step is to contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Be prepared to share details such as your dog’s weight, the amount of CBD ingested, the product name, and any symptoms you’ve noticed.
- If the treats contain more than 0.3% THC, your vet may recommend bringing your dog in right away, as high-THC products can be toxic to dogs.
- If there’s no immediate cause for emergency care, monitor your dog closely for signs of distress. Symptoms of CBD or THC overdose in dogs can include excessive sleepiness, poor coordination, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or confusion. If any of these appear, call your vet again for further guidance.
- Avoid giving your dog any additional CBD. Make sure they have access to clean water and allow them to rest in a calm environment while you observe them.
A Safe Way to Give CBD to Dogs
To prevent overdosing, discuss with your veterinarian, who will advise on the dosage and usage if your dog is currently using other medications.
Low-quality CBD products may be more likely to cause CBD overdose in dogs because they may contain inaccurate labeling, inconsistent dosing, or harmful contaminants like THC. Without proper quality control, a dog could receive a much higher dose than intended, leading to adverse effects
Choose high-quality products for pets by looking for a third-party lab testing certificate that checks for THC content and other additives, and also ensures it has a dosage recommendation for easy administration. Paw Origin's Happy-Furever™ CBD oil and chews are a good example of quality pet CBD products, as each contains a certificate of analysis and dosage recommendations. This makes it easier for dog parents to prevent a potential dog overdose on CBD.
To safely introduce CBD products, start with a low dose and gradually increase the CBD dosage as you monitor your pet's health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can CBD kill a dog?
CBD is unlikely to be fatal to dogs when used appropriately, but like any substance, it can be harmful in excessive amounts or if the product contains unsafe ingredients, especially THC, which can be toxic to dogs. A dog’s reaction depends on factors like their size, overall health, dosage, and the quality of the CBD product. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How much CBD is too much for a dog?
It depends on weight, tolerance, underlying conditions, other medications, and formulation. Always follow dosage guidelines from a vet or product label.
Can dogs build a tolerance to CBD?
Some dogs may develop a slight tolerance over time, but the effects vary per pet. Don't just increase the dose above the dose range if you think this is happening without consulting with your vet, or you may risk CBD overdose in dogs.
Conclusion: Can Dogs Overdose on CBD?
Quality CBD products are generally safe when used properly; however, giving too much CBD oil can cause negative side effects. It is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions. If your fur baby is taking other medications, your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of action to ensure the medications work properly without interference.
Although it is unlikely for your fur baby to overdose on CBD, ensure you choose quality CBD products like Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil and CBD Chews. These contain less than 0.3% THC, so you don't have to worry about psychoactive effects in case of an overdose. Still, always monitor your dog's reaction whenever you give CBD and consult your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline if you suspect a dog CBD overdose.
Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench
With nearly two decades of experience, Cambridge veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Dench is dedicated to enhancing animal health through holistic practices. A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, she focuses on preventive care over traditional methods, particularly for long-term wellness solutions in pets suffering from anxiety and chronic conditions. As Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins, she champions holistic strategies and education to revolutionize pet care practices.
Products Featured In This Blog
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How soon can I expect results?
The response time to CBD Happy-Furever™ can indeed differ from one dog to another, as it is a natural supplement that dogs may need time to adapt to. Many dog parents have observed noticeable positive changes in their pets' behavior and well-being within just a few days of starting the supplement. Common early signs of the supplement taking effect include better sleep, a calmer demeanor, and an increased appetite—all indicators of a content and healthy dog.
As the weeks go by, further enhancements in your dog's health may become evident. You may notice a shinier coat, a reduction in bodily pains, and an increase in energy, evident from bursts of playful excitement like the "zoomies" during fetch.
It's crucial to acknowledge that, like humans, some dogs may require a longer period to fully benefit from natural supplements like CBD oil. Patience is key, and during this time, it's also important to continue reinforcing good behavior.
When CBD helps to bring your dog to a more tranquil state, it's an opportune moment to introduce new habits and work on phasing out any undesirable behaviors. Remember, while CBD can support your dog's well-being, it is not a substitute for consistent training and conditioning.
Keep an eye out for signs of improvement; sometimes, they may not be immediately obvious. Documenting your dog's journey with videos and photos can help you recognize progress that you might otherwise overlook.
Furthermore, improvements might be taking place internally, such as enhanced immune function or reduced inflammation, which aren't always visible. The absence of health issues can often be a silent testament to the efficacy of the supplement, reflecting your dog's overall health and vitality. So, while some benefits of CBD are seen, others are felt—a healthy dog is a happy dog, inside and out.
Will these products make my pet 'high'?
Absolutely not! It's not possible for dogs to get 'high' off our CBD as they contain less than 0.3% THC, which won't cause any intoxicating effects. However, your pup might seem a lot more relaxed, and might be sleeping more - which is a healthy sign! Keep in mind that young puppies and senior dogs should be sleeping for up to 18-20 hours of their day, while adult dogs sleep approximately 16 hours.
The lack of quality sleep can affect their health and anxiety in many ways.
CBD can make older pooches act ‘puppy-like’ and nervous young pups feel calm. The ingredients that makeup hemp contribute to a balanced mood, resulting in a sense of relaxation for your pet.