CBD Balm Benefits for Dogs: Soothing Pain, Inflammation, & Skin Issues

CBD balms may offer localized relief for dogs experiencing discomfort, especially in areas like sore muscles, stiff joints, or irritated skin. By interacting with receptors just under the skin, CBD can help reduce the sensation of pain without needing to be absorbed into the bloodstream.

While some ingredients in these products may have mild anti-microbial or anti-fungal properties, their main function is to support skin health. Any potential pain-relieving effect from these ingredients would likely come from reducing inflammation or soothing irritation, rather than directly treating pain.

Another of the key benefits of CBD balm is its potential to help reduce inflammation. This can contribute to soothing minor irritations, redness, and itchiness. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be especially helpful for dogs with sensitive skin or those experiencing flare-ups from allergies, bug bites, or hot spots.

By calming the skin and strengthening the skin barrier, CBD balm may help limit further irritation and promote healing. In some cases, reducing inflammation may also ease discomfort caused by patches of dry skin or mild swelling.

While more research is still needed, some ingredients commonly found in CBD balms—such as natural oils and extracts—may offer additional soothing or protective benefits when the skin is inflamed or reactive.

CBD balm is an effective topical option for supporting the healing of dry, flaky, or irritated skin in dogs. When applied to affected areas, it may help soothe discomfort and promote the skin’s natural repair process, making it useful for conditions like dry paws, rough elbows, or areas prone to excessive licking or scratching.

In addition to containing CBD, many of these balms are enriched with moisturizing ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, or beeswax . These natural components help lock in moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and create a protective layer that supports faster wound healing.

You may have heard of CBD oil, like  CBD Happy-Furever Oil™, which is another formulation. A full-spectrum CBD oil may also contribute to pain relief, reducing inflammation, and supporting skin healing. Talk to your vet about the best formulation to address your dog’s specific needs.

To maximize the benefits of CBD balm for skin healing and soothing, here's how to correctly apply it for best results:

• First, decide where you need to apply the balm. Check the dog's skin on elbows and hips, and look out for cracked paws or any spots where the dog licks or bites itself. Pinpoint any painful areas, such as joints.

• Remove dirt, debris, and other oils in the irritated area with a clean, damp cloth. Pat dry before application for better absorption.

• Wear gloves before application to avoid contact with the CBD balm.

• Use the amount recommended by your vet and gently apply in a massaging, circular motion — this will be a soothing relief for your dog and a bonding moment for both of you!

To provide relief and moisturize the affected area, CBD balm can be used more frequently than its oral and sublingual (oil/drop) application counterparts. To get the best results, you may apply it to the affected area 2-3 times daily or as your vet suggests.

CBD balm should not be the primary treatment for deep, bleeding, or infected wounds. It's best used for minor skin issues and as a complementary remedy once the wound is infection-free and starting to heal.

Before applying CBD balm to your dogs, make sure you talk to your vet about incorporating CBD balm into your dog's skin health routine and discuss CBD balm benefits with them to help reduce the likelihood of chronic pain from skin conditions. They can provide you with the correct CBD balm dosage and frequency of application according to your dog’s age, size, and health condition.

Ensuring your dogs get the quality care they deserve means searching for the best quality product to help you get the most out of the benefits that CBD balm can produce. Here are the factors you should consider:

When choosing CBD balm for your dog, safety and transparency are important. Third-party testing guarantees the CBD balm contains no contaminants and accurately provides the product's THC limit.

Generally, yes — especially when made with pet-safe, all-natural, human-grade ingredients. However, if your dog tries to lick the balm off, it may encourage licking of skin lesions that could disrupt their healing. You may need to stop your dog and use a physical barrier (a bootie or cone could work) until the balm has been absorbed.

Effects may begin within 30 minutes of application for surface-level relief, like itching or irritation. For inflammation, it may take a few consistent daily applications over a few days to notice the benefits.

No, it is not recommended. Human CBD balms may contain essential oils, fragrances, or THC levels that could be unsafe for dogs. With your vet’s input, choose a product formulated specifically for pets, with third-party lab testing and a Certificate of Analysis (COA).