5 Best CBD Oils For Dogs: A 2025 Guide
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Time to read 11 min
Early research showed that almost all mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). While more studies are needed to fully assess CBD oil's benefits and limitations for pets, early research and anecdotal evidence are promising and show potential benefits for managing anxiety, inflammation, and discomfort.
As someone interested in CBD oil for dogs, you've probably noticed the many options available. How do you know which is the best CBD oil for dogs?
Well, don't worry. We've done some research, and here is our guide to the 5 best CBD oils for dogs.
Table of Content
What Is CBD Oil for Dogs? Benefits, Safety, and Efficacy of CBD Oil for Dogs Potential benefits Risks and considerations Choosing the Best CBD Oil for Dogs Top 5 CBD Oil Brands for Dogs Full-Spectrum (1,000mg) Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil Honest Paws CBD Oil Innovet CBD Oil Lazarus Naturals Pet CBD Oil Tincture Bailey’s CBD CBD Oil Dosage for Dogs Recap: Best CBD Oil for Dogs Products Featured In This Blog Related Readings
What Is CBD Oil for Dogs?
CBD oil is a natural, non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that is said to provide relief for humans and dogs with anxiety, pain, and inflammation. If your pup struggles with arthritis, seizures, or persistent skin allergies, CBD oil might be a natural remedy that may provide relief.
Many pet owners report that CBD's anti-inflammatory effects can ease joint pain, making it easier for your older canine friend to move around. Some pet parents have also reported fewer and less severe seizures in dogs after introducing CBD, and there is some scientific evidence for this. For dogs with itchy, irritated skin, naturally occurring CBD oil derived from the hemp plant may help calm allergic reactions by supporting their immune system and reducing inflammation.
As a responsible dog parent, choosing the best CBD oil for dogs rather than just grabbing the cheapest one off the shelf ensures safety and efficacy. Some low-quality products may contain harmful additives, pesticides, or heavy metals that could do more harm than good. That’s why choosing a high-quality, vet-approved CBD oil is crucial. The best brands undergo rigorous third-party lab testing to ensure purity, safety, and proper CBD concentration.
Benefits, Safety, and Efficacy of CBD Oil for Dogs
As CBD oil is gaining popularity, it is important to be aware of both the benefits and risks associated with its use. Here is a breakdown of the benefits and risks of CBD oil for dogs:
Potential benefits
Joint pain relief . As dogs age, arthritis and joint pain can make once-joyful walks a struggle. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce swelling and discomfort, making movement easier and improving mobility.
Calms anxiety and stress . Some dogs freak out during thunderstorms, fireworks, and car rides. CBD interacts with the nervous system and may help promote relaxation and ease stress, helping anxious pups feel calmer in stressful situations.
Seizures and epilepsy . CBD's anticonvulsant properties may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in epileptic dogs.
Skin conditions . CBD's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and ultimately promote a healthier coat.
Risks and considerations
Not a cure - Pet parents shouldn't think of CBD products as a cure but rather as a supplementary aid and that is why it's important to consult a vet before you give it to your pup. They can then check for underlying conditions and ensure the product is safe for your pet, particularly if they are on any other medications or have any underlying conditions
THC toxicity - CBD from hemp contains little THC, but low-quality or mislabeled products may have high THC levels, which can be toxic to dogs. Look out for symptoms of THC toxicity, such as disorientation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and lethargy. Pet parents should also watch for side effects once they've given the CBD. Reported side effects of CBD in dogs include ataxia, increases in ALP ( a liver enzyme), soft stools, and vomiting.
Limited scientific evidence and lack of regulations - Unlike prescription medications, CBD for pets isn’t tightly regulated, meaning quality and consistency can vary between brands. Additionally, while research on CBD’s benefits for dogs is promising, long-term effects are still being studied.
Inaccurate dosing - Having the correct dosage will ensure your dog benefits from any effective properties while preventing too much CBD, which could cause side effects. On the other hand, underdosing will be ineffective. It is recommended to consult your veterinarian for the right dosage.
Poor quality products - Poor-quality CBD oil products may contain pesticides, heavy metals, and additives that could be harmful to your pup. Poor-quality CBD oil products may contain pesticides, heavy metals, and additives that could harm your pup. A 2020 study found that many CBD pet products were mislabeled, with some containing little to no CBD or even unsafe levels of contaminants.
Potential side effects and interactions with other medications - If your canine friend is already taking other drugs or has underlying conditions, it is important to mention this to your veterinarian, as CBD may interfere with other medications.
Choosing the Best CBD Oil for Dogs
So, how can you choose the best CBD oil for your dog? Well, you need to look for third-party lab testing and certification. The certificate of analysis proves that the particular CBD oil:
Has passed a purity and safety check
Has accurate CBD and THC levels
It is free of fillers and additives
Dog owners should look for certified USDA organic hemp CBD oils specifically formulated for dogs and not just give them human CBD. Pet-specific CBD oils are formulated with pet-friendly dosages, making them easy to administer. Some dog owners may opt for high-quality CBD products, such as CBD chews and CBD dog treats, instead of CBD oil for their fur babies if their canine friends are choosy.
It is important to check that the CBD brand you are choosing is sourced from organic pesticide-free farms. Also, CBD extracted using CO2 or cold press methods ensures that no harmful solvents are used in the oil's production.
Top 5 CBD Oil Brands for Dogs
Full-Spectrum (1,000mg) Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil
Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil for dogs is ranked number 1 for a reason – it is a high-potency, full-spectrum CBD oil designed for maximum relief from anxiety, pain, and inflammation in pets. Each tincture of this USA-grown hemp oil contains 1,000 mg of high-quality CBD full-spectrum hemp oil. This makes it strong and ideal for large dog breeds and fur babies with severe health issues requiring extra support.
This product is also assured by a third-party certificate of analysis, which provides an evaluation ofthe safety, potency, and purity of the Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil, making it a preferred brand for dog owners looking for high-quality CBD products for their canine friends.
You also get a dosing instruction (5 mg CBD for dogs weighing 10 lbs) and 5 ways to administer CBD oil to your pup, but we do recommend speaking with your vet before deciding on a dose. These reasons make it one of the best CBD oils for dogs.
Honest Paws CBD Oil
Made with organic, full-spectrum hemp extract, Honest Paws CBD oil is tailored for different pet sizes and specific health concerns like joint pain and stress. It includes naturally occurring terpenes to enhance its therapeutic benefits and improve overall pet wellness.
Honest Paws has also ensured that its CBD products are third-party tested for safety. And just like Happy-Furever™, they have CBD chews and treats, providing a convenient alternative for picky eaters.
Honest Paws has different formulations for various conditions. For instance, the Mobility oil adds turmeric while the Calm oil contains chamomile. While this sounds like a good idea, we propose that having a more versatile, all-in-one product on your shelf is more economical.
Innovet CBD Oil
Innovet CBD oil is a THC-free, full-spectrum CBD oil formulated to help with pain, inflammation, and seizures in dogs. This CBD oil is derived from 100% organic, non-GMO hemp grown in the U.S., ensuring it is free from harmful pesticides and herbicides.
Innovet also has a Certificate of Analysis for each batch, ensuring their CBD oil is safe for your furry, four-legged friend. Its CBD oil bottles are graded for different sizes with clear dosages, making it easy to administer.
Lazarus Naturals Pet CBD Oil Tincture
This is an affordable, full-spectrum CBD tincture made from organic hemp and third-party tested for quality. Its simple formula offers effective relief for pets with allergies or sensitivities. Lazarus Naturals uses an ethanol-based extraction process, and its hemp is grown organically in the US.
Lazarus Naturals CBD oil is lab-tested for potency, pesticides, and heavy metals. Innovet CBD is also 100% organic, thus suitable for pets needing a gentle yet effective CBD solution. Lazarus Naturals prioritizes pet safety by using only simple, pet-friendly ingredients, such as coconut-derived MCT oil for improved absorption.
There is also a serving and usage guide to make it easy to administer to your fur baby. However, this could pose problems as people need to see their vet before deciding on a dose for their dog.
Bailey’s CBD
Bailey's CBD is a veterinarian-formulated, full-spectrum CBD oil designed to ease joint discomfort, stress, and aging-related issues in pets. The company makes its CBD products with sustainably sourced USDA organic hemp and uses the CO2 extraction method, therefore ensuring quality CBD products at all times.
Bailey's CBD is also quality-assured with third-party lab testing at Bel Costa Labs to test for heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins. In partnership with the World Animal Foundation, Bailey's CBD has a dosage calculator to help you calculate and administer the right dosage to your furry companion.
Despite being one of the best CBD oils for dogs out there, there is one disadvantage: there are no flavors to choose from.
CBD Oil Dosage for Dogs
The best CBD oils for dogs must be administered with the right dosage. Finding the right CBD dosage for your dog is essential to ensuring its safety and effectiveness. Since every dog is different, factors like weight, health condition, and CBD concentration play a crucial role in determining the correct amount.
Consult your veterinarian first, and always start with a low dose and gradually increase while monitoring your dog’s response. Observe changes in pain levels, anxiety, or mobility over a few days. If there’s no noticeable improvement, you can increase the dosage, but only within the dose range until you achieve the desired effect. Monitor carefully for any side effects.
Since CBD oil can be added to your dog's food, it's easy to introduce CBD oil to your four-legged friend.
Recap: Best CBD Oil for Dogs
When choosing the best CBD oil for dogs for your pup, quality is a top priority for any dog owner. And it is with that in mind that we dove into the sea of CBD oil for dogs and found you only the best. As we have seen, it is important to consider the extraction method, THC content, and the certificate of analysis that proves the oil's purity.
Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil, Honest Paws CBD oil, Innovet CBD oil, Lazarus Naturals Pet CBD Oil Tincture, and Bailey's have all passed our test as the best CBD oils for dogs.
While most pups tolerate CBD oil well, some may experience mild side effects, so consulting your veterinarian before administering it to find out how much CBD to give and careful observation during the CBD regimen can make a huge difference in your dog's health and your peace of mind.
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
Related Readings
How does CBD Happy-Furever™ work?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants. Happy-Furever's Full-Spectrum CBD, is a formulation that contains not just CBD but also a range of other cannabinoids, terpenes, and phytochemicals found in the cannabis plant.
The Entourage Effect:
- Happy-Furever’s Full-Spectrum CBD benefits dogs through something known as the "entourage effect."
- This effect suggests that CBD, when combined with other cannabis compounds, works more effectively than it would on its own. The various components of the cannabis plant work in synergy to enhance the therapeutic effects of each other.
- In other words, the full spectrum of cannabinoids, including a safe level of THC (below 0.3%), terpenes, and other cannabis constituents, work together to bolster the beneficial effects on your dog's health.
Dog’s Endocannabinoid System:
- Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network of receptors (CB1 and CB2 receptors) and endogenous chemicals is responsible for maintaining balance and healthy functioning within the body.
- It regulates and influences a variety of physiological processes including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and the immune system response.
How CBD Benefits Dogs:
- When CBD is introduced to a dog’s body, it interacts with the ECS, specifically the cannabinoid receptors. CBD influences them indirectly and increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the body. This can lead to various health benefits, such as:
- Reducing Anxiety: CBD has been shown to help reduce anxiety in dogs, which can be beneficial in various stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or separation from owners.
- Pain Relief : It can offer pain relief, particularly in cases of inflammation, arthritis, or neuropathy.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD may help in reducing inflammation throughout the body, which is especially beneficial for dogs with inflammatory conditions.
- Supporting Neurological Health: CBD is also believed to provide neuroprotective effects, which can help senior dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to Alzheimer’s in humans) or help in managing seizures.
- Boosting Overall Wellness: By promoting homeostasis, CBD can generally enhance the overall well-being of dogs, supporting healthier joints, skin, and fur.
It's important to note that while Full-Spectrum CBD has potential benefits, it should be used responsibly and always start at a lower dosage before increasing with time, as dogs may be sensitive to oils in general. Always ensure the CBD product is of high quality and specifically formulated for pets to avoid harmful additives and ensure proper dosage (just like Happy-Furever, ensure there's a Certificate of Analysis).
How do I use CBD Happy-Furever Oil™ for my dog? What's the most effective way?
⚠️ Here are the various methods to use CBD Oil for your dogs:
Highly Recommended Methods (Straight To Bloodstream):
(1a) Transmucosal applications or rubbing CBD oil onto your dog's gums.*
- Highly recommended for the best bioavailability & effectiveness.
- 15 - 60 minutes to take effect.
- *Works well because your dogs' mucous membranes absorb the CBD, so it goes directly into their bloodstream without traveling through their digestive system.
(1b) Rub into the soft skin of your dog's inner ear.*
- Recommended for bioavailability & effectiveness.
- 20 - 60 minutes to take effect.
- *Works well like transmucosal because it does not go through the digestive tract, making it bioavailable. Easy for dog parents finding difficulty applying to their dog's gums.
Least Recommended Methods (Digestive Tract):
(2) Apply directly on dog food - drop it on their food and mix it well.
- Recommended for picky dogs with sensitive digestive systems.
- Least bioavailability.
- 45 - 90 minutes to take effect.*
(3) Apply directly onto treat - trick or treat?
- The next most bioavailable option.
- 45 - 90 minutes to take effect.
*Important note: dogs may be sensitive to oils in general, always start at a low dosage, and slowly increase with time.
Important note: dogs' digestive systems may be sensitive to oils in general, so always start at a low dosage and slowly increase with time.
