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How Much CBD for Dogs Is Recommended? Everything You Need to Know!

February 14, 2025

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Figuring out how much CBD for dogs is recommended is the first thing you need to do before giving it to your furry friend. Different breeds and sizes actually need specific levels and dosages to make sure they’re safe and comfortable.

CBD use has gained so much popularity in the pet care world, so dog owners are turning to this helpful natural remedy to address a ton of different issues like anxiety, sickness, and stress.

But, finding the right CBD dosage can feel overwhelming, especially if you're a pet owner who’s new to CBD use and also because there are so many products and different recommendations out there.

Lucky for you, we created this handy guide to cover everything you need to know about using CBD for dogs, like its benefits, common effects, proper cbd oil for dogs dosage guidelines, and how to choose the best CBD product for your dog.

If you're new to CBD or just looking to refine your approach, you'll get some actionable advice to help you make informed decisions.

Potential Side Effects of CBD in Dogs

Even though CBD is widely considered perfectly normal and pretty safe for dogs when used appropriately, just like with any supplement being introduced to a dog’s body, there's always a possibility of side effects.

Most of these are pretty mild and temporary, but it's always important to know what to watch for so you can ensure your dog’s general wellness.

1. Drowsiness

With the right dose, CBD's calming properties can be so effective that some dogs might end up snoozing more than usual, especially when first starting out with the supplement.

Sure, a little extra nap time isn't usually a concern, but it's a sign that you might need to reduce the dose if it interferes too much with their daily routine.

Just keep an eye on their energy levels and adjust as needed until you feel they're fairly balanced.

2. Dry Mouth

Less saliva production is one of the lesser-known effects of a CBD dosage, but it happens! Most pet owners report this only lasting a short while, though.

But this obviously leads to increased thirst. If you notice your dog heading to their water bowl more often than usual, it's nothing to panic about—just make sure they've got plenty of fresh water available throughout the day.

If you're working long hours, maybe consider getting your furry friend one of those automatic water dispensers.

3. Lowered Blood Pressure

A slight drop in blood pressure is another potential side effect. It's not a major concern, but it can give them a bit of light-headedness or lethargy.

This effect is usually short-lived, but it's worth noting, especially if your dog seems a bit unsteady after their dose.

If this happens, scale back the dog's CBD dosage and consult your vet if it keeps up for a few weeks.

How to Minimize Side Effects

You can make sure your dog's experience with CBD is a positive one with the right daily CBD dosage and these quick tips:

Start Low and Go Slow:

Start off with a low CBD for dogs dose based on your dog's weight, and gradually increase the daily CBD dosage until you begin to see the results you're hoping for. This helps your dog's body adjust to CBD without overwhelming its system.

Watch and Learn:

Like people, every dog is unique. Some tend to be more sensitive to CBD than others, so watch their behavior like a hawk during those first few days.

Specific things to look for are changes in appetite, energy levels, or mood. If those things are negatively affected, just tweak the cbd dosage for dogs accordingly.

Check the Label:

Always double-check that the product you're using is specifically formulated for pets and includes clear dosing instructions FOR PETS. Using the right CBD oil for dogs reduces the chances of anything going wrong with your pet after consumption

Always avoid products with chemical additives or artificial ingredients that could upset your dog's tummy.

Consult Your Vet:

Before you jump the gun and add CBD to your dog's routine, especially if they're on other medications, have a quick chat with your vet to discuss potential drug interactions.

When you understand how CBD interacts with your dog's ECS, you can have some peace of mind when keeping an eye out for those side effects.

Plus, you'll be better equipped to provide your fur baby with a safe experience. Your goal should be to improve their quality of life, and the right CBD oil dosage can definitely help with that.

Administering CBD to Dogs: Quick Tips

CBD to Dogs

Many dog owners want to know ‘how much CBD oil should I give my dog‘ but there is also another common query - how to administer it! If you've decided to give CBD a try for your dog, the next step is figuring out how to administer the CBD effectively.

The good news is that CBD comes in more than just one form and can be tailored to fit your dog's preferences and specific needs.

The Different Forms of CBD for Dogs

1. Oils and Tinctures

CBD oils and tinctures are some of the most common options. They come with a handy dropper, making it super easy to measure precise CBD doses for dogs.

You can give it to your dog directly in its mouth (perfect for fast absorption) or mix it with its food if it's a little fussy. You can even get beef and chicken-flavored CBD oils!

2. Capsules and Softgels

Capsules and softgels are perfect if you're looking for accuracy in dosing. They're pre-measured, so there's no guesswork involved. Just know that capsules might be harder to administer unless your dog is accustomed to taking pills.

Pro tip: Hide them in a piece of cheese or a healthy dollop of peanut butter. They usually gobble up anything hidden that way.

3. Treats and Chews

This form is made for those super picky eaters or dogs who simply love snacks. CBD-infused treats and chews come in flavors most dogs adore, like bacon or chicken, and feel more like a reward than a supplement.

The only downside we've heard of is that the treat form might be a smidge less effective.

4. Topicals

CBD topicals are just fancy words for balms and creams. You just apply them directly to the skin, and they are absorbed through the affected area.

They're not ingested, so you don't have to worry about calculating internal doses, but you still need to be mindful of how much you're slathering on.

Tips for Giving Your Dog CBD

Tip for dogs CBD

To make giving CBD to your dog a breeze, try any of these tips.

  1. Create a Positive Experience the First Time: Build trust by using a soothing and calming voice. Do it in an area of the home they love, like their bed, kennel, or even the couch.
  2. Choose Flavors They Love: Chicken, beef, salmon, or even peanut butter! Choose flavors your dog already loves, and it'll make things go much more smoothly. If they already love peanut butter, it makes it easy to hide tablets.
  3. Stick to a Routine: Like most things in life, consistency is key. Give them the CBD product around the same time each day. If you've already created a positive environment or reinforced expectations with yummy flavors, then they'll soon pick up on the new routine and be waiting for the supplement.
  4. Be Patient: If your dog is wary at first, don't force it. Gradually introduce CBD products by letting them sniff or taste small amounts before administering the full CBD oil dose for dogs.
  5. Monitor and Adjust: Always pay attention to how your dog responds to each method and form of CBD. If one approach doesn't work, try another until you find what suits them best.

Dosage Guide: Calculating How Much CBD for Your Dog

You have to get the dosage right so your dog benefits from CBD without experiencing crazy and potentially harmful side effects.

Generally, start with 0.2 mg of CBD per pound of body weight and increase the amount slightly until you see it taking effect. Then, monitor your dog's behavior and make minor adjustments to the dog CBD dosage as needed.

Dosage Chart by Weight

  • Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): 1–5 mg per dose.
  • Medium Dogs (21–50 lbs): 5–10 mg per dose.
  • Large Dogs (51–100 lbs): 10–20 mg per dose.
  • Extra Large Dogs (over 100 lbs): 20–40 mg per dose.

The Frequency

  • Give them CBD 1–2 times per day, depending on your dog's condition and needs.
  • tay consistent in your approach and timing.

How Much CBD to Give Your Dog Daily

We recommend you start with the lowest effective dose for your pup's size and weight and just gradually increase the dosage each day until you notice improvements in your dog's symptoms.

We always urge pet owners to talk to a vet, especially if their pet is on other medications, to avoid potential interactions.

What to Do If You Give Your Dog Too Much CBD

Good question! CBD is generally safe, but overconsumption may cause:

  • Lethargy
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

If you suspect an overdose:

  1. Stop using the CBD immediately.
  2. Always make sure your dog has access to plenty of water.
  3. Check with your veterinarian for further guidance.

Keep in mind two key factors when choosing CBD for your dog: 1) larger dogs tend to need higher doses, and 2) look for products with third-party lab testing and organic hemp.

A Rundown of Top CBD Products for Dogs

You have options when it comes to giving your dog CBD. Determine their personality, wants, needs, and preferences, and choose the form that you feel would work best.

  • CBD oil for pets: Most versatile as you can add it to their water and food or administer it directly into their mouths
  • CBD tablets for pets: Best if you want a slow release, but not great if your dog is a picky eater
  • CBD topicals for pets: Best if your dog has issues with their skin
  • CBD treats for pets: Best for super picky dogs who refuse to take pills

FAQ

How many drops of 250 mg CBD oil is right for dogs?

Refer to the product's dosing instructions for exact measurements.

How long does it take for CBD oil to take effect in a dog?

The effects of CBD products can vary a bit depending on how they are administered.

When given directly in the mouth, they usually start working within 20–60 minutes. If mixed with food or treats, they may take 30–90 minutes to kick in.

Topical applications can provide localized relief in 30 minutes to an hour. The onset time is also influenced by factors like your dog's size, metabolism, and condition being treated.

What form of CBD is most effective for dogs?

Oils and tinctures offer flexibility in dosing and are easy to administer. But treats are convenient and palatable for most dogs.

How does CBD oil make a dog feel?

CBD may help make your dog feel relaxed, calm, and more comfortable.

Can I use human CBD oil on dogs?

Using human CBD oil on dogs is not recommended because of the differences in concentration and added ingredients.

How do you dilute CBD oil for dogs?

Some pet owners mix CBD oil with a pet-safe carrier oil to reduce its potency. Coconut or olive oil are two popular choices for this.

Does CBD oil chill dogs out?

According to general feedback from most pet owners, that's one of the best positive effects. CBD oil may make your pet more relaxed and calm in hyperactive situations without making them lethargic.

Be sure to check the CBD oil bottle for dosage instructions.

How many milligrams are in a drop of CBD oil?

This depends on the product's concentration. For example, a 300 mg CBD oil in a 30 mL bottle typically has about 0.5 mg of CBD per drop. Just check the product label for specifics.

Is 1000 mg of CBD too much for a dog?

It depends on your dog's size and the dosage used. For small dogs, 1000 mg CBD oil is definitely far too concentrated, but it could be just right for larger dogs when given in small doses.

Always calculate the dose based on the dog's weight and even check with your vet.

How many mL of CBD oil do you give a dog?

The amount depends on the CBD concentration and your dog's weight. For example, a 20 lb dog might need 0.5 mL of a 300 mg oil. Read and follow the product's dosing guidelines, or talk to your local vet.

Top Reasons to Get Your Dog CBD from CBDPure

You get quality assurance because every batch is third-party tested and made with organic ingredients. We also have a full-spectrum formula that includes a ton of beneficial compounds.

Lastly, we pride ourselves on our stellar customer support and dedicated team to help answer your questions.

Ready to Give Your Furry Friend CBD?

Feel free to use this guide to determine how much CBD for dogs before making a purchase decision.

This may also help you determine whether CBD is right for your dog and also to pick which type will suit their needs.

If you're still on the fence, just give your vet a call and discuss using CBD to help your pet.

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