CBD isn’t just found in products made for people. Hemp-derived CBD is also available in products formulated specifically for dogs.
If you’re considering a CBD product for your dog, it can be difficult to know where to start. Products vary in formulation, CBD content, ingredients, serving recommendations, and format.
Understanding what you’re buying—and choosing a product made specifically for pets—is an important first step.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp.
CBD is different from THC, the cannabinoid most commonly associated with the intoxicating effects of marijuana.
Pet CBD products are available in a variety of formulations and formats. The amount and type of hemp extract can vary considerably from one product to another, so always read the individual product label.
When shopping for your dog, choose products that are specifically formulated and labeled for pets rather than simply giving your dog a CBD product intended for people.
Pet products are formulated with ingredients, flavors, formats, and serving instructions designed specifically for animals.
CBD products for dogs may be available in formats such as:
At HECANDI, we recommend relying on the current manufacturer’s label for ingredients, CBD content, suggested use, serving information, storage instructions, and warnings.
One of the most important pieces of information on a pet CBD product is the amount of CBD it contains.
Depending on the product, the label may identify CBD content per chew, per serving, or for the entire package.
Don’t assume that two products contain equivalent amounts simply because both contain CBD.
Read the label carefully so you know exactly what you’re purchasing and how the manufacturer recommends using it.
Some pet CBD products contain full-spectrum hemp extract.
Full-spectrum hemp extract contains CBD along with other naturally occurring components of the hemp plant, which may include additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Other products may use different forms of hemp extract or CBD.
Because formulations vary, the individual product label and manufacturer’s information are the best sources for determining exactly what a particular product contains.
CBD is only one ingredient in a pet CBD product.
Pet chews, for example, may contain flavoring ingredients and other botanical or nutritional ingredients as part of their formulation.
Read the complete ingredient list before giving a product to your dog, particularly if your dog has known food sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
If you have questions about whether a particular ingredient or product is appropriate for your dog, consult your veterinarian.
Quality and transparency are particularly important when choosing a product for your pet.
Consider manufacturers that provide clear information about:
Third-party or independent laboratory testing can also provide useful information about the contents of a hemp-derived product.
Don’t assume that more CBD is better.
Follow the serving information and directions provided by the manufacturer for the specific product you’re using.
Pet products can differ substantially in CBD concentration, serving size, and formulation.
If you’re unsure about the appropriate product or serving for your dog, talk with your veterinarian before use.
We recommend choosing products specifically formulated and labeled for pets.
Products made for people may contain ingredients, flavorings, concentrations, or other components that aren’t appropriate for dogs.
Some ingredients that are safe for humans can be unsafe for pets.
For that reason, don’t assume that a CBD product intended for human use is appropriate for your dog.
Your veterinarian is an important resource when considering any new product for your pet.
This is particularly important if your dog:
Your veterinarian can help you evaluate your dog’s individual circumstances and determine whether a particular product is appropriate.
Like other pet products and supplements, CBD products should be stored securely and used according to their labels.
Keep products in their original packaging when possible so you retain access to important information such as ingredients, serving directions, lot information, warnings, and expiration dates.
Store products out of reach of pets and children. Don’t allow a dog unrestricted access to an entire package of chews or other CBD products.
If your dog accidentally consumes more than the recommended amount or ingests a product not intended for pets, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Before purchasing a pet CBD product, consider:
A clearly labeled product makes it easier to understand exactly what you’re giving your dog.
Pet CBD products have become increasingly available, but not every product is the same.
Rather than choosing a product based on promises about what CBD might do, focus on product quality, ingredients, CBD content, labeling, testing, and manufacturer transparency.
Most importantly, don’t use a CBD product as a substitute for appropriate veterinary care.
If your dog has symptoms, pain, behavioral changes, mobility changes, or another health concern, contact your veterinarian rather than attempting to diagnose or treat the problem yourself with CBD.
This article is provided for general educational information about hemp-derived CBD products formulated for dogs.
Nothing in this article is intended to represent CBD or any HECANDI product as diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any disease or medical condition in animals.
HECANDI does not provide veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian if you have questions about whether a CBD product is appropriate for your pet.
