Is CBD Safe for Dogs? Yes (And So Are Supplements!)

Close up of black dog in a field

If you share your life with a dog, you know the joy they bring. You may also know how hard it can be when age or anxiety impacts the fullness of their lives. Maybe your once-energetic pup hesitates before climbing the stairs; maybe car rides have become stressful instead of fun. As loving pet parents, we’ll do anything to help them feel better.

That’s why so many are turning to CBD and dogs as part of a more holistic pet care approach. From easing joint stiffness to calming nerves, CBD and other natural supplements are giving pet owners new ways to support their dogs’ well-being, without relying solely on pharmaceuticals.

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Why Pet Parents Are Turning to CBD

As pet parents, there’s little we wouldn’t do to get our dogs help when they’re in need. Whether you’re at the dog park, the pet store, the vet, or simply talking to a friend, you’ve likely heard someone mention CBD and dogs.

Almost as soon as the two are mentioned, there’s an inevitable follow-up question: “Is CBD safe for dogs?”

It turns out that many pet parents are turning to CBD for their dogs as part of a more holistic approach to pet care. In fact, the use of CBD in pet wellness is on the rise:

  • According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), in 2018, approximately 4% of dog owners reported using a cannabinoid (mainly CBD) product for their dog; by 2024, that figure had increased to nearly 12% (1).
  • That same survey revealed that 28% of pet parents reported using CBD for dogs for anxiety and stress, and 17% for pain.
  • Market research suggests the global pet-CBD market will grow to $1.7 billion by 2030, with the US responsible for $576.9 million of that market (2).

Those are some significant gains, which raises the following question: Why the rise? There appear to be a few key drivers:

  • More pet parents are embracing holistic pet care and looking for natural, plant-based options to supplement traditional veterinary care. In fact, one study cited by the Dog Aging Project notes that among 50,000 pet owners, 15% have adopted some form of holistic pet care as their pet ages (3).
  • Many dog owners feel their pets are living longer, and they’re right. According to research, in the US, dogs are living, on average, about 2 years longer than in the past (4). As a result, they’re experiencing issues like joint pain, anxiety (especially travel- or separation-related), and so they are eager for wellness tools beyond “just another pill.”
  • Anecdotally, there’s a lot of buzz around CBD for pets, especially CBD for dogs, with owners reporting calmer behavior, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life.

  • At the same time, regulations around hemp-derived CBD have loosened in many places (though not fully regulated for pets), making it more accessible to conscientious pet-care brands like yours.

Although the research is still emerging, the shift towards exploring CBD and dogs is clear: pet parents want options, and they want them to be safe and natural. 

Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

When it comes to CBD and dogs, safety is the number one concern for most pet parents, and rightfully so. Our dogs can’t tell us how they feel after taking something new, so it’s natural to ask: Is CBD safe for dogs?

The short answer is yes, when sourced responsibly and used correctly, CBD is generally considered safe for dogs (5). Studies show that dogs tolerate CBD well at recommended doses, with only mild and temporary side effects occasionally reported (6,7). 

How CBD Works in a Dog’s Body

CBD is one of many naturally occurring compounds (called cannabinoids) found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, the compound that causes a “high” in marijuana, CBD is non-psychoactive. It interacts with a system dogs already have: the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

When a dog takes CBD oil, the cannabidiol binds with ECS receptors located throughout the nervous system, immune cells, organs, and even the skin, much like it does in humans. Essentially, CBD works by supporting the body’s natural ability to calm inflammation, ease discomfort, and promote relaxation (8).

CBD Safety for Dogs

As with humans, even though research supports that CBD and dogs are a safe combination, pet parents should still keep a few things in mind:

  1. Product quality matters. Not all CBD oils are created equal. Some may contain residual solvents, pesticides, or higher-than-legal levels of THC,  all of which can be harmful to pets. Always choose a third-party-tested, full-spectrum CBD to ensure quality and purity.
  2. Dose makes the difference. The most common CBD dosing range in dogs is between 1 and 5 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight, given one to two times daily (9). More isn’t necessarily better. As with all supplement dosing, start low and go slow.
  3. Individual variation. Dogs, like people, have unique metabolisms. Some may respond more strongly or need less to achieve benefits. Monitor your pet as you would with any medication.
  4. Potential drug interactions. As with humans, CBD can affect how the liver metabolizes certain medications, so it’s always smart to check with a veterinarian before introducing CBD, especially if your dog is on other prescriptions. 

Ultimately, CBD and dogs can be a safe and effective partnership, but like any supplement, it depends on quality sourcing, proper dosage, and close observation. With the right full-spectrum CBD oil and guidance from a trusted vet, many pet parents are finding that CBD can help support their dog’s wellbeing in a natural, holistic way.

Dog in front of Rocky Mountains

Benefits of CBD for Dogs

A growing body of research on CBD and dogs reveals that as we explore this topic further, the list of potential benefits continues to expand. While every dog is different, and CBD is certainly not a cure-all, studies suggest it can play a meaningful role in supporting comfort, calm, and overall well-being.

  • Eases joint discomfort and promotes mobility.
    In a study at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, dogs with osteoarthritis who received CBD twice daily were more comfortable and active, with no major side effects reported (10).
  • Reduces anxiety and stress-related behaviors.
    Research suggests that CBD can help regulate stress responses through the endocannabinoid system, thereby helping dogs stay calmer during events such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or travel (8).
  • Supports dogs with seizure disorders.
    A clinical trial at Colorado State University found that 89% of dogs given CBD had fewer seizures than those receiving a placebo, suggesting it may help manage epilepsy when used under veterinary guidance (11).
  • Promotes overall calm and balance.
    Because CBD oils support the endocannabinoid system, they can help dogs maintain better emotional and physiological balance. One study found that CBD oil helped decrease stress responses in shelter dogs, while another found it worked for dogs experiencing stress during separation (separation anxiety) and travel (12, 13). Stress reduction and balance are key components of holistic pet care and long-term wellness, regardless of the triggers.

A holistic wellness regime for your dog, including good nutrition, regular exercise, and CBD, can help ensure your pet feels its best naturally.

Dog out hiking in Colorado

The Role of Herbal Supplements Alongside CBD

For many pet parents, holistic care and wellness go beyond CBD and dogs; that’s just one piece of a larger picture. A holistic pet care approach considers every aspect of a dog’s health, from physical comfort and emotional balance to environmental well-being. The focus is on helping them thrive, naturally.

Alongside full-spectrum CBD oils, a few carefully chosen herbal supplements and botanicals can work in harmony to support your dog’s overall health:

  • Turmeric – Naturally anti-inflammatory, turmeric can help soothe stiff joints and support mobility, especially when paired with CBD for dogs (14).
  • Chamomile – Gentle and calming, chamomile complements CBD oils to ease mild anxiety, restlessness, or digestive upset (15).
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish (and flax) oils, omega-3s help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin and coat, enhancing the overall benefits of CBD (16).

When used under veterinary guidance, these supplements can complement CBD’s natural balancing effects, helping dogs feel calmer, more comfortable, and better able to enjoy their daily routines. As with any medication or supplement, pet parents should consult and talk with their vet about additions to their diet, nutrition, and holistic health regimen.

Holistic Pet Care in Practice

A genuinely holistic plan, for both humans and dogs, goes beyond supplements. It includes simple, natural therapies that work together to keep dogs healthy in body and mind. For dogs, pet parents might also consider:

  • Balanced nutrition with fresh, whole foods
  • Massage therapy to improve circulation and relaxation
  • Hydrotherapy for gentle, joint-friendly movement
  • Regular exercise and mental enrichment to reduce stress and build resilience

These approaches, paired with safe, natural supplements like CBD and herbs, can create a thoughtful, well-rounded way to nurture your dog’s lifelong wellness.

Dogs by a lake

Choosing Safe CBD and Supplement Products for Dogs

If you’ve read this far, then giving your dog the best life possible is likely a priority for you. That means you consider their food, medications, care, and more. Like other aspects of your dog’s care, when it comes to CBD and dogs, safety and quality should always come first.

The growing interest in CBD for pets means there are plenty of products on the market, but not all CBD products are created equal. Choosing wisely ensures you and your dog receive the full benefits without unnecessary risks.

Look for products that are:

  • Full- or broad-spectrum CBD oils (for the widest range of beneficial plant compounds)
  • Third-party tested, with lab results that verify purity, potency, and safety
  • Free from artificial additives, pesticides, or heavy metals

It’s also important to purchase from a company that’s transparent about its sourcing and manufacturing. The best CBD for dogs comes from organic, responsibly grown hemp and is backed by people who genuinely care about pets’ well-being.

At SuperTrees Botanicals, that’s exactly who we are. As dog lovers and pet parents ourselves, we understand how much your four-legged family members mean to you. That’s why our CBD oils and botanicals are human-grade, made with the same integrity we expect for our own pets. We use high-quality ingredients and rigorous third-party testing. All of our CBD products are small-batch crafted for safety and consistency.

If you’re ready to see how CBD and holistic supplements can support your dog’s comfort, calm, and vitality, we’d love for you to give SuperTrees Botanicals a try. We know when it comes to your dog’s health, only the best will do. Have more questions? Feel free to reach out! We’d love to chat.


Sources:

1. American Pet Products Association. (n.d.). Pet owners turn to CBD supplements to ease dog and cat anxiety. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://americanpetproducts.org/blog/pet-owners-turn-to-cbd-supplements-to-ease-dog-cat-anxiety

2. LolaHemp. (2025). Pet CBD 2025 trends & research guide. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://lolahemp.com/blogs/pet-cbd/pet-cbd-2025-trends-research-guide

3. Glen Oak Animal Hospital. (n.d.). Holistic veterinary care 101: Why more pet owners are choosing natural pet care. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.glenoakanimalhospital.com/services/pets/blog/holistic-veterinary-care-101-why-more-pet-owners-are-choosing-natural-pet-care

4. HealthforAnimals. (2024). Global trends in pet health. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://healthforanimals.org/reports/pet-care-report/global-trends-in-pet-health/#lifespan

5. Pet Dog Planet. (n.d.). CBD oil dosage chart for dogs: How much is safe? Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.petdogplanet.com/cbd-oil-dosage-chart-for-dogs-how-much-is-safe/

6. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2024). Cannabidiol and its therapeutic potential. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10800185

7. Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). CBD: What you need to know about its uses and efficacy. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cbd-what-you-need-know-about-its-uses-and-efficacy

8. Morris Animal Foundation. (n.d.). Cannabidiol (CBD) use in dogs and cats. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/cannabidiol-cbd-use-dogs-and-cats

9. Total Vet. (n.d.). CBD dosage calculator. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://total.vet/cbd-dosage-calculator/

10. Kovita Pets. (n.d.). Cornell University arthritis study. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.kovitapets.com/blog/cornell-university-arthritis-study

11. ScienceDaily. (2019, May 21). CBD shown to improve quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/05/190521101450.htm

12. PubMed. (2021). Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol for canine health. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33531559/

13. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2023). Therapeutic potential of CBD in veterinary medicine. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9992179/

14. Animal Wellness Academy. (n.d.). Turmeric: A supplement worth considering for your dog. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://animalwellnessacademy.org/blog/turmeric-a-supplement-worth-considering-for-your-dog/

15. VCA Animal Hospitals. (n.d.). Chamomile. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chamomile

16. PetMD. (n.d.). Fish oil for dogs. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/fish-oil-for-dogs



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