Written by Marion Law
Published October 24, 2020
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In this post, we’re going to cover and review our ten most recommended brands of CBD for dogs. Does CBD work to calm stressed dogs as well as to relieve their pains?
If the market is any indication, pet owners are very happy with the results they’re getting from pet CBD products as the industry is currently booming. Pet owners seeking safe and natural remedies for their beloved animals’ medical conditions are the driving force behind the exponential growth of pet CBD products.
According to hemp industry analysts, Brightfield Group, the burgeoning Pet CBD business received a giant boost with the passage of the December 2018 Farm Bill.
The US CBD market[1] between 2018 and 2019, exploded to 10 times its original size, with a whopping $321 million in revenue. And the projected total for Pet CBD sales, by the end of 2020 is $563 million.
The fact is that many pets have responded favorably to CBD products and found relief from not only stress but also chronic pain and inflammation, even when traditional treatments were ineffective.
A wide range of pet CBD products is available including:
- Tinctures
- Capsules
- Creams and Ointments
- Powders
- Treats
- Shampoos
Most Pet CBD products are formulated for dogs. However, over the past few years the parameters have expanded to include CBD protocols for other domestic animals, such as cats, horses, and birds.
Pet owners, and especially dog lovers, are using CBD to treat an array of ailments suffered by their furry friends. Especially stress-related conditions and behaviors.
Just like humans, pets suffer from stress — from separation from their owner, social situations, and stress caused by loud noises such as fireworks, and so on.
CBD oil is also often used to treat aches and pains, skin conditions, digestive disorders, and so forth. But is there evidence to back up the claims that CBD helps to relieve the symptoms of these conditions? You bet there is.
For example, researchers[2] report an estimated 20% of dogs 1-year and older, suffer from osteoarthritis. That percentage is considerably higher for senior canines.
A recent post by Forbes talks about a new study that suggests that CBD may help dogs with arthritis[3]. The results of the study strongly indicated that CBD could indeed alleviate arthritic pain.
Medterra, one of the brands reviewed in this article, recently collaborated with researchers from Baylor College of Medicine on another similar study[4]. The pilot study published in Thieme E-journals suggested the efficacy of CBD for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis pain.
In another study on CBD for dogs[5] the safety and pain-relieving powers of CBD were observed. Researchers reported no discernable side effects from CBD.
However, they did find a marked decrease in pain. An impressive 80% of the dogs displayed a better range of motion and a significant decrease in pain. The clinical study indicated that the administration of 2 mg/kg of CBD twice daily alleviates discomfort and improves mobility in dogs afflicted with OA.
A smaller-scale study published in 2019, reported that CBD can help dogs afflicted with epilepsy[6]. Dogs treated with CBD oil in adjunct with their regular seizure medication experienced significantly fewer episodes than those administered a placebo and seizure medication.
The efficacy of CBD oil for treating dogs has been less studied. Most studies have been done on humans and lab animals. However, studies on CBD for stress relief[7] such as this one published in the Brazilian publication Journal of Psychiatry suggest that CBD offers a safe and effective treatment for stress.
Studies on CBD protocols for humans have uncovered many benefits, including:
- Alleviating effects of depression, stress, and PTSD disorders
- A reduction in the frequency and duration of epileptic seizures
- Significant reductions in chronic pain
- Reduction in chronic inflammation
- Reducing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
- Reduce the impact of neurodegenerative conditions
- Improvement of appetite and reduce nausea
- Alleviate vascular damage, lowering blood pressure and heart rate
CBD Topicals Quick Guide
Brand | Product | Attributes | Price | |
Medterra CBD Tincture Pets Chicken |
| $ | 15% off discount CBDSCHOOL | |
Doc Patels CBD Pet Oil Salmon |
| $$ | 25% off discount CBDSCHOOL25 | |
Canna-Pet Advanced MaxCBD Liquid |
| $$$ | 20% off discount CBDSCHOOL20 | |
cbdMD CBD Oil Calming Tincture |
| $$ | 15% off discount CBDSCHOOL | |
Joy Organics CBD Oil Tincture for Pets |
| $$ | 35% off discount CBDSCHOOL | |
King Kanine King Kalm |
| $$$ | 10% off discount CBDSCHOOL10 | |
Honest Paws CBD Oil for Mobility |
| $$$ | 15% off discount CBDSCHOOL | |
CBD Dog Health Ease |
| $$$ | 10% off discount CBD-SCHOOL | |
Green Roads Pet CBD Drops |
| $$ | ||
LolaHemp CBD Oil for Pets |
| $$ | 10% off discount CBDSCHOOL |
What to look for when shopping for pet CBD
Because the CBD market is not completely regulated, there are some companies out there that will try to take advantage of shoppers by offering inferior products.
These days, most CBD producers in the U.S. must adhere to strict production practices and lab testing to assure the potency and purity of their products. Moreover, most U.S. states require CBD producers to grow their hemp organically.
All the products we recommend to our readers, including CBD products for dogs, must meet the highest standards in the industry and adhere to the following standards:
- Transparent, reputable CBD brands that are dedicated to providing the highest quality products.
- Products must be derived from all natural, non-GMO hemp grown in the US.
- Third party lab test results that ensure cannabinoid levels in the product match what is claimed on the label and there is no presence of heavy metals, molds, pesticides or other potentially harmful ingredients.
- Active and inactive ingredients, potency, texture, taste and scent.
- A variety of products at various prices to meet needs of anyone’s budget. When looking at the price of each product, keep in mind that they will vary depending on strength, serving size, volume and any other added ingredients.
Any CBD brand that doesn’t meet these standards doesn’t meet our personal standards and will never be recommended to our readers.
The following are CBD School’s picks for the top 10 CBD oils for dogs that are available on the market.
Top 10 CBD Oils for Dogs
Medterra
Medterra CBD Tincture Pets Chicken
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$
- Many satisfied customers claim that their pets love the flavor. One customer even claims that their pet now won’t eat their food without the addition of the tincture!
- Other customers report a lessening of stress in their animal and are thrilled with how fast the product works.
- Senior dogs reportedly regain mobility and experience a cessation of arthritic pain.
- Medterra’s CBD Pet Products are carefully formulated for your pet’s particular needs.
- Their broad-spectrum CBD-based tinctures are infused with MCT oil (coconut derived) as well as a natural chicken flavoring that most pets will love.
- Each bottle is conveniently equipped with an easy-to-use dropper for accurate dosage.
Doc Patels
CBD Pet Oil Salmon
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$
- This product comes with certification by a highly regarded cannabis doctor in two different flavors (bacon + salmon).
- The ingredients are of the highest quality and are rigorously tested for purity and potency.
Pros
- Only the finest ingredients
- 100% THC-free
- Salmon flavoring is appealing to most pets
- Certified by Dr. Patel
Cons
- Their website is lacking certain information
- Some pets may not like the salmon flavoring
- Doc Patels Salmon-flavored CBD oil says it all: the highest quality, pure, broad-spectrum hemp extract oil and salmon flavoring is all that is contained in this potent product
Show More
Canna-Pet
Advanced MaxCBD Liquid
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$
- Canna-pet MaxCBD is perfect for dogs with extreme stress.
- According to customers, the high CBD content ensures relaxation for their pets, along with potent pain-relieving qualities.
- It is beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs because it absorbs in the mouth and not the gastro-intestinal tract.
- It’s economical, as only a few drops are required.
Pros
- Potent formula
- Economical
- Easy on dogs’ stomachs
Cons
- Harder to administer sublingually
- Only one size option
- Canna-pet, MaxCBD liquid products are guaranteed organic, CBD-rich, whole plant hemp extract oils.
- They are designed for oral consumption, primarily for dogs.
- The liquid product is perfect for pets requiring the highest possible CBD levels, or those with food restrictions, as the liquid is absorbed sublingually and not digested.
- Due to the high concentration of CBD, only a few drops are needed.
cbdMD
Paw CBD Calming Oil
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$
- This veterinarian formulated tincture contains organic hemp extracts, both CBD and CBG.
- It is vegan, gluten-free, and available in two strengths.
- It has a natural, blueberry flavor that many pets seem to love, and the droppers are plastic to ensure your dog’s safety.
Pros
- Many dogs love the flavor
- Veterinarian formulated
- Plastic droppers for dog’s safety
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the blueberry flavor
- This broad-spectrum oil utilizes premium-grade CBD and is infused with melatonin (a sleep aid and naturally occurring hormone) valerian root, passionflower, lemon balm, and chamomile.
- All of these organic ingredients are known for their calming effects and sleep-inducing properties.
Joy Organics
CBD Oil Tincture for Pets
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$¢
- Joy Organics CBD oil for dogs is made with human-grade, broad-spectrum CBD oil, and is formulated especially for dogs with chronic pain.
- The product is also known to have stress-relieving effects.
- Be aware that this tincture, although suitable for cats, should be administered in lower dosages.
- The oil has no added flavor and is virtually odorless (at least to humans).
- This oil absorbs quickly into your pet’s system.
Pros
- Human-grade product
- All-natural, non-GMO, and organic
- No artificial flavors
Cons
- Although it says “flavorless and odorless” dogs can probably smell it and some might not like it.
Joy’s broad-spectrum CBD tincture is 100% THC-free and formulated with organic extra-virgin olive oil and phytocannabinoid-rich hemp extract.
King Kanine
King Kalm
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$¢
- The ingredients are of high quality and work together for highly beneficial results.
- Customers testimonials suggest this product helps on many levels including relieving stress, soothing pain, and alleviating painful skin conditions.
- The dosing guide is an added bonus if pet owners are unsure of proper dosage.
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Multi-faceted health benefits
- Easy-to-use dosage chart
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the fishy flavor of Krill oil
- This popular tincture is formulated with a proprietary broad-spectrum CBD oil.
- It is infused with copaiba essential oil, and krill oil creating a powerful soothing, and healing effect. This potent combo of ingredients was formulated to relieve stress and physical discomfort in both dogs and cats, and other domestic animals.
- This product comes with a chart to easily find the perfect dosing amount for your pet.
Honest Paws
CBD Oil for Dogs Mobility
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$$
- Honest Paws is thoroughly tested and contaminant-free, with organic ingredients.
- It is highly potent and fast-acting and customers claim that it works to relieve both pain and stress.
- If your dog doesn’t experience relief from their symptoms, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Honest Paws is made with full-spectrum, organic CBD-rich hemp oil and turmeric.
- Both of these potent ingredients are widely used for their pain and stress-relieving qualities, in addition to supporting the joint health of aging dogs.
- It's tested for both potency and purity and is free of GMOs, soy, corn.
- This tincture reportedly works within an hour of ingestion, allowing your dog to move without stiffness or pain.
- Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee!
CBD Dog Health
EASE with Turmeric and Frankincense
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$$
- This product is used by dog owners whose pets suffer from chronic pain.
- It’s also often used to resolve allergy issues and skin conditions brought on by constant scratching.
- Ease is easy to administer, can be applied to gums or the fleshy part of the ear flap for rapid absorption, in addition to oral ingestion.
- The hemp oil was extracted without the use of chemical solvents such as butane.
- CBD Dog Health also offers other wonderful full-spectrum CBD products formulated for your dog’s well being, including: Nourish, a salve for dry paws, elbows, and nose; Remedy, a salve for bumps and infections. Soothe, a salve for allergies, bug bites, dermatitis, and hot spots.
Pros
- Used for both pain and skin conditions
- Easy to administer
- No chemical solvents utilized in the extraction
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the turmeric/frankincense flavor
- Only one size available
- This full-spectrum CBD tincture is 100% food-grade and is made using CO2 extraction, meaning that no chemical solvents were utilized in the extraction process.
- Ease is infused with frankincense and turmeric, CocoTherapy MCT-3 oil, and hemp seed oil.
- Frankincense and turmeric are considered potent anti-inflammatory essential oils.
- According to the maker, hemp seed oil helps to maintain a healthy coat and alleviates skin issues and chronic itching. Ease contains less than 0.3% THC.
Green Roads
Pet CBD Drops
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$
- This product is very potent and likely to be effective in managing your dog’s stress and pain issues.
- With only one ingredient, it provides fast-acting relief in the way only pure CBD products can.
- Green Roads, because it was founded by a compounding, licensed pharmacist, has set the gold standard in the burgeoning CBD industry for self-regulation.
Pros
- The company was founded by a compounding, licensed pharmacist
- Easy to digest
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of a pure CBD tincture
- Green Roads CBD drops is an easy-to-digest, gluten/soy-free, vegan tincture made from the finest broad-spectrum American-grown hemp seed oil and hemp-derived CBD extract.
- This product is designed for medium-sized dogs (15-50lbs). One serving equals 7mg of CBD.
- This tincture will be an asset during vet trips or thunderstorms when stress might be an issue for your dog.
- It also lends support to your aging pet and guards against senior-dog issues, like joint pain and inflammation.
LolaHemp
CBD Oil for Pets
POTENCY
HEMP SOURCE
USA GROWN HEMP
ORGANIC
YES
PRICING
$$
- It is free of any harmful chemicals, as the hemp oil is CO2 extracted, in addition to being artisanal and hand-harvested.
- Customers say this product has been effective at relieving pain and stress and is known to restore mobility in senior pets.
- It’s also lab-tested to ensure safety, quality, and concentration.
- The 24/7 customer support is excellent.
Pros
- Pure CBD extract with no chemicals
- Three convenient sizes
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Dogs may not like the strong CBD flavor
- LolaHemp CBD oil is made from a full-spectrum CBD extracted with CO2, meaning that no harmful chemicals were utilized in the extraction.
- The hemp is artisanal and hand-harvested.
- Customers find that the product has superior pain and stress-relieving qualities.
- Green Roads donates one bottle to a rescue animal for every four sold.
- This company also has 24/7 customer support, and they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
References
- The Brightfield group, “The Definitive Guide to CBD Market Data & Analytics”
- Anderson, Zulch, O'Neill, Meeson Collins, “Risk Factors for Canine Osteoarthritis and Its Predisposing Arthropathies: A Systematic Review,” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, A2020
- Emily Earlenbaugh, Forbes Contributor, “CBD For Dogs? New Research Backs Canine Cannabis Use For Osteoarthritis,” Forbes.com, July 2020
- S. Mejia, F.M. Duerr, S. McGrath, “Evaluation of the Effect of Cannabidiol on Osteoarthritis-Associated Pain in Dogs—A Pilot Study,” Thieme E-Journals, 2019
- Gamble, Boesch,Frye, et al, “Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs,” NIH.gov, July 2018
- McGrath, Bartner, Rao, et al, “Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy,” NIH.gov, June 2019
- “Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa constituent, as an anxiolytic drug,” Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, June 2012
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