Does CBD Get Dogs High? Separating Facts from Myths
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Time to read 6 min
As more pet parents explore CBD to support their dogs’ wellbeing, questions about safety are common—especially whether CBD can make dogs feel “high”. This article clears up the confusion by explaining how CBD works in dogs, what sets it apart from THC, and how to choose safe, effective products backed by science.
Table of Content
Understanding CBD: What It Is and How It Works in Dogs Can CBD Get Dogs High? The Science-Based Answer Common Myths About CBD and Dogs Myth 1: All CBD products are the same Myth 2: CBD oil is the same as hemp oil Myth 3: CBD makes dogs intoxicated Evaluating the Safety of CBD for Dogs Research on CBD and Canine Health How to Choose Quality CBD Products for Dogs Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD Conclusion: The Truth About CBD and Your Dog Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
Understanding CBD: What It Is and How It Works in Dogs
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound from the hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is psychoactive, CBD is non-intoxicating and does not produce a euphoric “high.”
Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network that helps regulate functions such as pain perception, stress response, inflammation, appetite, and mobility. CBD interacts mainly with CB2 receptors in this system, helping to promote balance and wellness without affecting your dog’s state of mind.
Many pet owners and veterinarians report benefits such as reduced joint discomfort, calmer moods, and improved quality of life—reinforcing CBD’s role as a safe, natural option.
Using chemical treatments may be the quick and easy solution with the wide range of available products in the market today: chemical-based flea spray bottles, topical spot-ons, flea collars, and oral flea medications. These may be acceptable and effective flea remedies for some, but they often come with harsh ingredients that irritate dog skin, harm the environment, and pose deadly risks if unknowingly ingested.
Many pet parents turn to safer home remedies for fleas on dogs that get the job done and protect their dog’s health and well-being.
Can CBD Get Dogs High? The Science-Based Answer
Simply put: no, CBD does not get dogs high.
Legal hemp-derived CBD products for pets must contain less than 0.3% THC, an amount far too small to trigger intoxication. When you choose third-party tested products designed for animals, CBD supports comfort and balance without altering your dog’s behavior or personality.
Accidental THC exposure, however, can cause side effects like confusion or loss of coordination—which is why product quality and accurate labeling matter. Pure, hemp-based CBD avoids these risks entirely.
Common Myths About CBD and Dogs
Myth 1: All CBD products are the same
Not true. Quality depends on hemp sourcing, extraction methods, and third-party testing. Low-quality products may contain contaminants or inaccurate CBD levels. Always check for a Certificate of Analysis (COA), transparent ingredient lists, and veterinary oversight.
Myth 2: CBD oil is the same as hemp oil
Hemp seed oil comes from pressed seeds and contains healthy omegas but no CBD or cannabinoids. CBD oil, on the other hand, contains cannabidiol and interacts with your dog’s ECS. For relief from discomfort or stress, CBD—not hemp seed oil—is what you need.
Myth 3: CBD makes dogs intoxicated
This is the biggest misconception. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause a “high.” When you choose properly tested, pet-specific CBD, your dog’s comfort improves without mental side effects.
Evaluating the Safety of CBD for Dogs
CBD is generally well-tolerated, but as with any supplement, mild side effects may occur, especially with higher doses. These may include:
Dry mouth and increased thirst
Mild drowsiness
Temporary digestive changes
Slight shifts in appetite
These effects are usually short-lived and improve with dosage adjustments. Always start with recommended amounts and consult your veterinarian—especially if your dog is on other medications.
Low-quality CBD increases risks, so stick to third-party tested, pet-formulated products with human-grade ingredients.
Research on CBD and Canine Health
Scientific studies continue to explore CBD’s impact on dogs:
A 2018 Cornell University study found that CBD oil reduced pain and improved mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Colorado State University research showed CBD helped reduce seizure frequency in epileptic dogs.
While more long-term studies are needed, both research and veterinary experience suggest CBD offers promising support for joint health, comfort, and calm—without intoxication.
How to Choose Quality CBD Products for Dogs
Not all CBD products are equal. Here’s what to prioritize:
Third-party lab testing with a COA showing accurate CBD and THC levels (<0.3%)
Clear labeling with dosage guidelines, CBD content per serving, and ingredient transparency
Veterinary-formulated options using non-GMO, human-grade ingredients
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD : Contains all hemp compounds, including trace THC (<0.3%), which may enhance benefits through the entourage effect.
Broad-spectrum CBD: Includes multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC at all.
Both are safe when properly made and tested—choose based on your comfort with trace THC exposure.
Conclusion: The Truth About CBD and Your Dog
CBD does not get dogs high. That effect comes only from THC, which is absent (or present only in safe, trace amounts) in legal, hemp-derived CBD products. With high-quality, third-party tested supplements, CBD can safely support your dog’s mobility, comfort, and overall wellbeing—without affecting their mind or personality.
By focusing on quality, transparency, and veterinary guidance , you can feel confident using CBD as a natural, safe way to improve your dog’s life.
Emily Carter, Holistic Pet Care Specialist, PawOrigins®
Dedicated to helping pets thrive through natural, holistic care. With years of experience studying nutrition, behavior, and wellness practices, she believes that every animal deserves to feel calm, mobile, and full of life at every stage. As a Holistic Pet Care Specialist at PawOrigins®, Emily combines research-driven insights with a genuine love for animals to ensure each product supports both body and mind. Her work reflects a simple mission: to give pets and their families more joyful, healthy years together.
Products Featured In This Blog
Related Readings
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.