CBD has become increasingly popular among pet parents looking for new ways to support their dog's health and wellness.

But as interest has grown, so has the amount of information, and misinformation, surrounding CBD for dogs.

Can CBD support joint comfort?

What about stress?

Why are researchers studying CBD in dogs with epilepsy?

Is CBD safe?

And perhaps most importantly:

What does the veterinary research actually show?

Over the past several years, scientists have moved beyond anecdotal stories and begun conducting controlled clinical studies involving real dogs.

Researchers are now investigating CBD in areas including:

• Joint comfort and mobility
• Osteoarthritis
• Epilepsy
• Itching and canine atopic dermatitis
• Situational stress
• Inflammation
• Safety and long-term use
• Drug interactions
• CBD absorption and formulation

Some findings are very encouraging.

Others remind us that this is still a developing area of veterinary science.

At Cannafyl, we believe pet parents deserve to understand both sides of that story.

So let's take a closer look at what we currently know about CBD and dogs.

What Is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol.

It is one of many naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant.

CBD is different from THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, the cannabinoid primarily responsible for the intoxicating effects associated with marijuana.

CBD itself is not considered intoxicating.

Hemp-derived full-spectrum products may contain very small amounts of THC along with CBD and other naturally occurring cannabinoids, while broad-spectrum products generally remove THC and CBD isolate contains primarily CBD.

This distinction is particularly important with dogs because dogs are much more sensitive to THC than people are.

THC intoxication in dogs can cause symptoms such as:

• Lethargy
• Loss of coordination
• Urinary incontinence
• Changes in heart rate
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Sensitivity to sound or movement
• Changes in body temperature

Human marijuana products and THC-containing edibles should never be intentionally given to dogs. Cornell University notes that THC is the primary toxic component involved in canine cannabis intoxication. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

Dogs Have an Endocannabinoid System, Too

One reason CBD has generated so much scientific interest is that dogs have an Endocannabinoid System, or ECS, just as humans do.

The ECS is a signaling network found throughout the body.

It includes:

• Endocannabinoids produced naturally by the body
• Cannabinoid receptors
• Enzymes that create and break down endocannabinoids

Researchers have identified components of this system throughout canine tissues, including the:

• Brain and nervous system
• Immune system
• Skin
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Joints

The ECS participates in processes related to balance and regulation throughout the body.

Scientists are particularly interested in its relationship with:

• Pain perception
• Immune signaling
• Inflammation
• Stress responses
• Neurological activity
• Skin function

CBD does not simply switch CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors on or off.

Its effects appear to involve several biological pathways, which is one reason researchers are exploring CBD across many different areas of canine health.

But an interesting biological mechanism does not automatically mean CBD has been proven to treat a particular disease.

That requires clinical studies.

And fortunately, canine CBD research has grown considerably.

What Is CBD Being Studied for in Dogs?

1. CBD, Osteoarthritis and Joint Mobility

One of the strongest areas of canine CBD research involves osteoarthritis, joint comfort and mobility.

In a landmark 2018 Cornell University study, dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis received CBD or placebo in a randomized crossover trial.

The dogs receiving CBD experienced improvements in measures of pain and activity, and veterinarians also recorded improvements during CBD treatment.

The study used approximately:

2 mg CBD per kilogram of body weight every 12 hours.

It was a small study, but it helped establish canine osteoarthritis as an important area of veterinary CBD research.

Later studies also reported improvements in measures of mobility and pain with particular CBD formulations.

A 2023 systematic review examined five osteoarthritis studies involving 117 dogs and found encouraging signals, while also concluding that the certainty of the overall evidence remained low because the studies were small and used different products, doses and methods.

That's an important distinction.

Research is promising, but CBD has not been proven to cure arthritis.

Current studies do not establish that CBD:

• Repairs cartilage
• Reverses arthritis
• Stops joint degeneration
• Prevents osteoarthritis

Instead, researchers are examining whether CBD may have a role in supporting comfort, mobility, activity and quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis.

For a deeper look at this research, read:

CBD for Dogs With Arthritis: What Research Says About Joint Comfort & Mobility

2. CBD and Epilepsy in Dogs

Canine epilepsy has become another particularly interesting area of CBD research.

Several controlled studies have investigated CBD as an adjunct to conventional seizure medications.

That word adjunct is extremely important.

Researchers have generally studied CBD alongside a dog's existing anticonvulsant medication, not as a replacement for it.

In a 2019 randomized clinical trial from Colorado State University, dogs with difficult-to-control idiopathic epilepsy received CBD in addition to their normal seizure medications.

The dogs receiving CBD experienced a median reduction in seizure frequency of approximately 33% compared with placebo.

Researchers also observed that dogs with higher blood concentrations of CBD tended to experience greater reductions in seizures.

Additional studies involving CBD and combinations such as CBD plus CBDA have also reported reductions in seizure frequency in some dogs.

Cornell's current veterinary guidance identifies seizures, osteoarthritis and atopic dermatitis among the canine areas where peer-reviewed CBD research has shown promise. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

CBD should never replace prescribed seizure medication without veterinary supervision.

Dogs taking medications such as phenobarbital, levetiracetam, potassium bromide or other anticonvulsants should be monitored by their veterinarian when CBD is introduced.

3. CBD, Itching and Canine Atopic Dermatitis

Researchers have also begun studying cannabinoids in dogs with canine atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with significant itching.

This field is especially interesting because cannabinoid receptors have been identified throughout canine skin.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving dogs with atopic dermatitis found that a CBD/CBDA oil reduced itching, although it did not significantly improve the severity of the underlying skin lesions.

Other small studies have also reported reductions in itching behavior.

But not every study has found a significant benefit.

That tells us that the research is still evolving and that factors such as:

• Formulation
• Dose
• Individual response
• Cannabinoid ratios
• Severity of disease

may influence outcomes.

CBD has not been proven to cure dog allergies.

The more accurate conclusion is that researchers are studying cannabinoids for their potential effects on itching and skin comfort, especially in dogs with canine atopic dermatitis.

For more detail, read:

CBD for Dogs With Allergies & Itching: What the Research Shows

4. CBD and Stress in Dogs

Many pet owners are interested in CBD for situations such as:

• Car rides
• Separation
• Travel
• Fireworks
• Thunderstorms
• Grooming
• Veterinary visits
• Changes in routine

This area is more complicated because “anxiety” is not one single condition.

Researchers have begun studying CBD during specific stressful situations rather than simply asking owners whether their dog seems calmer.

Controlled studies involving car travel and separation have reported changes in some behavioral and physiological measures associated with stress.

However, the overall research remains less established than the evidence surrounding osteoarthritis or epilepsy.

Cornell's veterinary guidance notes that studies of CBD for canine anxiety currently suggest only modest effects and that more research involving different products, doses and study designs is needed. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

So rather than saying:

“CBD treats anxiety in dogs,”

a more accurate statement is:

Researchers are investigating how CBD may influence certain stress-related behaviors and physiological responses in dogs.

5. CBD and Inflammation

The relationship between cannabinoids and inflammatory signaling is another active area of research.

Some canine osteoarthritis studies have measured changes in inflammatory markers while dogs were receiving CBD.

Researchers have also identified cannabinoid receptors in canine immune cells and tissues involved in inflammation.

These findings give scientists good reasons to continue investigating CBD's effects on inflammatory pathways.

However, the phrase “CBD reduces inflammation” can be overly broad when applied to every condition.

Inflammation occurs in many different diseases for many different reasons.

Evidence from one arthritis study should not automatically be generalized to:

• Autoimmune disease
• Gastrointestinal disease
• Skin disease
• Cancer
• Infections
• Other inflammatory conditions

This is another area where the science is promising—but still developing.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

Safety research has increased considerably.

Studies have examined CBD and other hemp cannabinoid preparations over periods ranging from weeks to several months.

Cornell's current veterinary guidance notes that canine safety studies involving various cannabinoid compositions and doses have generally found them to be well tolerated under study conditions, including longer-term research. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

That does not mean CBD is completely free from possible side effects.

Reported effects in canine studies can include:

• Loose stool or diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Changes in appetite
• Lethargy
• Sedation
• Behavioral changes

Researchers have also repeatedly observed changes in alkaline phosphatase, or ALP, a blood chemistry value commonly monitored by veterinarians.

An elevated ALP does not automatically mean liver injury has occurred, but it is one reason veterinary involvement and appropriate monitoring are important, especially for dogs receiving CBD long term.

CBD and Medication Interactions

This is an area pet owners should take seriously.

CBD can affect enzymes involved in the metabolism of medications.

Canine laboratory research has identified potential interactions involving cytochrome P450 enzymes, which help the body process many drugs.

That means CBD may potentially affect the way certain medications are metabolized.

This can be particularly important for dogs taking:

• Anticonvulsants
• Sedatives
• Pain medications
• Heart medications
• Chemotherapy
• Multiple prescription drugs

Your veterinarian should know that your dog receives CBD.

This is especially important for older dogs, who are more likely to take multiple medications.

Why CBD Dose Isn't the Whole Story

One of the most interesting findings from canine CBD research is that blood concentrations can vary considerably between dogs.

Two dogs can receive similar weight-based doses and still absorb CBD differently.

Several factors may affect absorption, including:

• Formulation
• Carrier oil
• Whether CBD is given with food
• Individual metabolism
• Cannabinoid profile
• Product concentration

This helps explain why researchers pay attention not only to dose, but also to pharmacokinetics, what happens to CBD after it enters the body.

It also means that simply comparing the number of milligrams on two different bottles does not necessarily tell you whether those products will behave identically.

Full-Spectrum CBD vs. Broad-Spectrum vs. CBD Isolate

CBD products are available in several forms.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate contains primarily CBD with other hemp cannabinoids removed.

Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum products contain CBD plus other hemp compounds but are generally processed to remove THC.

Full-Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum hemp extract contains CBD together with naturally occurring minor cannabinoids and other compounds found in hemp, with THC remaining within applicable hemp limits.

Researchers have studied several different formulations in dogs, including:

• CBD isolate
• Broad-spectrum extracts
• Full-spectrum extracts
• CBD/CBDA combinations
• CBD/CBG combinations
• Liposomal CBD

This raises an interesting question:

Is full-spectrum CBD better?

We don't know yet.

Researchers are increasingly interested in combinations of cannabinoids, but canine studies have not conclusively demonstrated that full-spectrum CBD is superior to broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.

At Cannafyl, we use full-spectrum hemp extract because we value the naturally occurring cannabinoid profile of the hemp plant.

But we also believe it's important to distinguish our formulation philosophy from what clinical research has definitively proven.

Product Quality Matters

One of the biggest challenges in pet CBD isn't simply whether CBD works.

It's knowing what is actually in the product.

Cornell researchers evaluated commercial pet cannabinoid products and found substantial variability in cannabinoid concentrations. Some products contained significantly different amounts than stated on their labels, and some showed contamination concerns. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

For pet parents, this makes transparency extremely important.

A high-quality pet CBD company should be able to provide independent laboratory testing showing:

• CBD concentration
• THC concentration
• Other cannabinoids
• Heavy metal testing
• Pesticide testing
• Residual solvent testing
• Microbial testing

A batch-specific Certificate of Analysis, or COA, allows customers to verify that information.

It should not be difficult to find.

CBD Is Not the Same as THC

This point deserves repeating.

CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, but they affect dogs very differently.

Dogs appear particularly sensitive to THC.

Never give your dog:

• Marijuana
• High-THC oils
• THC gummies
• Cannabis edibles
• Human recreational cannabis products

Many human edibles may also contain ingredients dangerous to dogs, including chocolate or xylitol.

If a dog accidentally consumes marijuana or a THC-containing product, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control resource promptly.

What Hasn't Been Proven?

With so much enthusiasm surrounding CBD, it can be difficult to separate early science from established evidence.

At this time, canine clinical research does not establish that CBD:

• Cures cancer
• Prevents cancer
• Treats dementia
• Reverses cognitive decline
• Prevents heart disease
• Treats kidney disease
• Treats diabetes
• Cures allergies
• Prevents disease
• Extends a dog's lifespan

Researchers may be studying some of these areas or investigating relevant mechanisms in laboratories.

But early laboratory research is not the same thing as demonstrating a clinical benefit in dogs.

Good science means being comfortable saying:

We don't know yet.

Can CBD Be Used Instead of Veterinary Medication?

CBD should not automatically replace established veterinary care.

That is particularly important for conditions such as:

• Epilepsy
• Osteoarthritis
• Severe allergies
• Chronic pain
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Neurological disease

Many of the most encouraging CBD studies have actually investigated cannabinoids alongside conventional treatment.

The goal should be to have an informed conversation with your veterinarian about whether CBD fits into your individual dog's overall care plan.

What About Senior Dogs?

Older dogs are one of the groups generating particular interest among pet parents.

Senior dogs may experience combinations of:

• Joint stiffness
• Reduced mobility
• Changes in activity
• Stress
• Sleep disruption
• Skin changes
• Multiple medications

CBD has not been proven to slow aging.

But because researchers are studying CBD in several areas that commonly affect older dogs, particularly mobility, pain and certain stress responses, healthy aging and quality of life are likely to remain important areas of future research.

For senior dogs, CBD should be considered in the context of the whole dog:

• Healthy body weight
• Appropriate exercise
• Good nutrition
• Dental care
• Regular veterinary exams
• Mental stimulation
• Medication management
• Comfortable home environment

There is rarely one single answer to healthy aging.

Where Does Cannafyl PET Fit?

At Cannafyl, we believe CBD should be approached the same way we approach other aspects of wellness:

with quality, transparency and respect for the science.

Cannafyl PET is made with full-spectrum hemp extract and is designed for pet parents who choose to include CBD as part of their dog's overall wellness routine.

Our goal is not to tell you that CBD is a miracle.

It's to give you a carefully made product while continuing to follow the research around cannabinoids and animal health.

And the research is moving quickly.

Just a few years ago, much of the conversation around CBD and dogs was based on personal stories.

Today we have controlled clinical studies investigating:

• Osteoarthritis
• Epilepsy
• Atopic dermatitis
• Situational stress
• Safety
• Pharmacokinetics
• Cannabinoid combinations

That is real progress.

But there is still a lot to learn.

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How to Talk With Your Veterinarian About CBD

If you're considering CBD for your dog, bring as much information as possible to your veterinarian.

Helpful questions include:

• Could CBD interact with my dog's medications?
• Does my dog's medical history make CBD inappropriate?
• Should bloodwork be monitored?
• What signs should I watch for?
• How should I introduce CBD?
• What product information or laboratory testing would you like to review?

Bring the product label and Certificate of Analysis with you if possible.

The more information your veterinarian has, the easier it is to have a productive conversation.

The Bottom Line

CBD research in dogs has come a long way.

The strongest areas of current canine research include osteoarthritis and mobility, epilepsy, itching associated with canine atopic dermatitis, and several aspects of safety and pharmacokinetics. Research into stress and other areas continues to develop.

Some studies have produced encouraging results.

Others have shown limited or no benefit.

And many questions remain unanswered.

That isn't a weakness of the science.

That's how science moves forward.

Researchers test an idea.

They measure the outcome.

Other researchers try to reproduce it.

Formulations and doses are compared.

Safety is monitored.

And over time, the picture becomes clearer.

For pet parents, that means CBD should be approached thoughtfully, not as a cure-all, but as one possible part of a larger wellness conversation.

At Cannafyl, we'll continue following that research and sharing what scientists learn.

Because when it comes to the dogs we love, we believe you deserve more than hype.

You deserve good information, high-quality products and the science behind them.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not veterinary medical advice. Cannafyl PET is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The FDA has not approved cannabis or CBD for any use in animals and advises pet owners to discuss cannabis-derived products with their veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian before introducing CBD to your dog, especially if your dog has a medical condition or takes prescription medication.

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