CBD has become increasingly popular as a support for potentially relieving pain, anxiety or discomfort in dogs. But with its growing use, legitimate questions also arise: is it really safe, can it cause adverse effects, what if my dog is already on medication? These are valid questions if you are thinking about including CBD in their routine. Although many people talk about its benefits, it is equally important to know in which cases it may not be recommended or what precautions should be taken. In this article, we explain in a clear and evidence-based way everything you need to know about the contraindications of CBD for dogs, and how to use it responsibly. We also remind you that CBD products in Spain are for topical use.
What is CBD and how can it be used in pets?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound extracted from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, which is the component that generates psychoactive effects, CBD does not alter perception or produce strange sensations. In dogs, this compound acts on the endocannabinoid system, a network present in all mammals that could help regulate functions such as sleep, appetite, mood or sensitivity to pain. Thanks to this interaction, it is believed that CBD could support the well-being of dogs in certain situations, from physical discomfort to specific moments of stress. Although research is still ongoing, there are already studies indicating that its use, when used responsibly and with the guidance of a veterinarian, can be safe and beneficial for many animals.
Potential benefits of CBD in dogs
Now, what exactly are the benefits you could expect from CBD in your dog? To answer this question, it is essential to look at what the most recent scientific studies have to say. Here are the most relevant findings on the use of CBD in dogs:
- Osteoarthritis and chronic pain. In dogs with osteoarthritis, a disease that affects the joints and hinders movement, CBD could have positive effects. According to the study by Di Salvo et al. (2023), a significant improvement in mobility and a reduction in pain was observed from the second week of use, using safe and well-tolerated amounts by the animals.
- Dermatological conditions. Topical use of CBD has also been evaluated in dogs with skin inflammations and itching. Di Salvo et al. (2023) documented that CBD could cause a noticeable decrease in symptoms and a visible improvement in the overall skin condition, even in persistent cases.
- Anxiety and aggression. The environment, changes in routine or traumatic experiences can generate anxiety in dogs. In this context, it has been observed that CBD could have a calming effect. Alvarenga et al. (2023) collected reports from caregivers mentioning improvements in sleep, increased calmness and reduced nervousness in animals following the use of this compound.
- Behavior. CBD is also studied in dogs with separation anxiety, fear of loud noises or aggressive behaviors. Corsetti et al. (2021) found that it could help regulate emotions such as fear by acting on the CB1 receptor. Marliani et al. (2024) note that high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, are linked to aggressive behaviors, and that CBD may help reduce that reactivity. Chronic pain has also been observed to influence these changes: Marliani et al. (2024) describe cases of dogs that showed aggression when living with persistent pain.
As you can see, CBD for dogs with certain ailments could offer a valuable accompaniment in multiple situations, from joint problems to behavioral disturbances. However, each benefit should be understood as part of a holistic approach, never as a replacement for conventional treatments. As long as it is used responsibly and with veterinary support, CBD can add to care strategies that improve your dog’s quality of life.
Contraindications of CBD in dogs
While CBD can offer interesting benefits, it is also important to speak honestly about its potential risks. Like any product, it is not free of side effects or interactions. Therefore, in this section we explain the most relevant contraindications that you should be aware of before starting its use in your pet, based on what was documented by Di Salvo et al. (2023) in their review of studies entitled Pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of cannabidiol in dogs: an update of current knowledge. This article looked at the reports of many other studies and reports on CBD in dogs, giving us an overview that helps us understand the possible precautions to take with CBD.
Possible effects on the liver
Some studies cited in the review, such as Vaughn et al. (2020), reported alterations in liver enzymes such as ALT in dogs that received CBD. In large quantities, such an alteration could be worrisome, but the studies agree that no case reached this point, being more a matter for veterinary attention and follow-up. Di Salvo et al. (2023) point out that, although there is no conclusive evidence of liver toxicity, caution is recommended in dogs with a history of liver disease and constant veterinary follow-up during the use of the product.
Interaction with other veterinary treatments
Among the liver enzymes that CBD can alter is cytochrome P450, which is responsible for processing many drugs. This means that it can increase or decrease the concentration of other drugs in the body, affecting their efficacy or safety. Di Salvo et al. (2023) warn that this can be especially relevant in dogs receiving chronic treatments, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, anticonvulsants or sedatives. Therefore, the most important recommendation is to always consult your veterinarian if your pet is using any medications or treatments. A professional can tell you if CBD is safe, even taking into account possible interactions, and guide you in the appropriate use for your dog’s case.
Drowsiness and behavioral changes
Lethargy, drowsiness and decreased general activity were effects reported in several authors cited in Di Salvo’s review (McGrath et al., 2019; Brioschi et al., 2020). These symptoms are usually mild and temporary, but can be accentuated if the dog is already taking medications with a sedative effect. Therefore, it is important to observe how your pet reacts during the first days of use and according to the amounts you use.
Mild digestive reactions
Effects such as diarrhea, vomiting or loss of appetite have been reported especially in the first weeks of administration (Di Salvo et al., 2023). Although they are usually transient and resolve on their own, it means that it is something to pay attention to if your dog usually has digestive sensitivity. In such cases, it is recommended to adjust the amount administered or temporarily pause use. Again, don’t forget to consult a veterinarian to be even more sure.
What science reveals about CBD in dogs
In their review, Di Salvo et al. (2023) note that, in general, the safety profile of CBD in dogs is good. That means that most of the adverse effects reported have been mild, such as drowsiness, digestive discomfort or changes in appetite. And in most cases, these effects are resolved by adjusting the amount or giving the dog’s body time to adjust.
It has also been shown that there could be benefits in different contexts, such as in dogs with osteoarthritis pain, with seizures that do not respond well to other treatments, or in situations of anxiety. Although these results are not yet conclusive, the evidence points to the fact that CBD could be part of a holistic approach to dog wellness.
So if you decide to explore this option, the most important thing is to do it responsibly: with patience, with safe products and always with the support of a veterinarian. This way you can make sure that everything is well adapted to your dog’s needs and that CBD is used as a support and not as a magic solution.
How much CBD is safe for my dog? Practical guide
One of the most important aspects when talking about CBD in pets is its administration. The key is to find a suitable point according to the size, age and specific needs of each dog. The general recommendation is to start with a low amount, observe how the animal reacts and, if necessary, adjust gradually.
Our experts at Gorilla Grillz have prepared a CBD calculator for dogs so you know where to start. Review it with your dog’s veterinarian so you can decide what’s best for your dog’s particular case.
How to choose a safe and suitable CBD product for dogs?
The CBD market has grown a lot, and that also includes products designed for animals. But beware: not all oils or supplements you see out there are suitable for dogs. The first thing you should check is that the product is formulated specifically for pets, with an adequate concentration of CBD and without ingredients that may be toxic to them, such as certain sweeteners or essential oils.
The most recommended products for dogs are usually broad-spectrum, meaning they contain several beneficial cannabis compounds but no THC. This is key, as THC can be harmful to dogs, even in small amounts. Checking labels, asking for lab certificates and choosing reliable brands is part of the care our animals deserve.
Common myths about CBD in dogs
As CBD has gained popularity among those who care for their dogs, doubts and beliefs have also arisen that are not always well founded. Some misconceptions are often repeated and can lead to misinformed decisions. Here we clear up the most common myths to help you make safer, more confident decisions with peace of mind.
- “CBD dopes or affects the mind of dogs.” This idea comes from confusing CBD with THC, which is a psychoactive compound. CBD does not generate perception- or behavior-altering effects artificially. It can have a calming effect in some cases, but without “doping” the animal.
- “CBD cannot be given to dogs.” In fact, more and more studies are exploring its specific use in dogs, as we have seen throughout this article. When administered responsibly and following the advice of a veterinarian, CBD can be a safe and useful tool to support your pet’s well-being.
- “CBD cures diseases in dogs.” No, CBD is not a cure. Its function is to help maintain the body’s balance and alleviate some symptoms. It should always be seen as a complement, not as a replacement for veterinary treatments. What is true is that by helping to deal with some symptoms, your dog may feel much better.
- “CBD is not legal”. In Spain, CBD is legal as long as the amounts of THC contained in the product are less than 0.2%. In the case of dogs, this is not a problem, because in fact the best option is to look for products that do not contain THC, because this compound can be toxic for some animals. And we remind you again that CBD products in our country are for topical use.
Conclusion
The use of CBD in dogs has gone from being a curiosity to become an option that more and more caregivers are considering to accompany the well-being of their pets. Studies show that it can be useful in some cases and that its safety profile is, in general, very good. As long as you take into account the possible contraindications mentioned here and, above all, have the guidance of a veterinarian, CBD could be a great option to complement your pet’s well-being.
At Gorilla Grillz, we believe that the welfare of animals deserves the same care as our own. That’s why we developed a line of CBD oils for pets that take into account the most important characteristics to make them safe for dogs: THC-free, with mild concentrations and designed to integrate naturally into their routines. If you are looking for a safe and reliable option, you can explore our range of products and find the one that best suits your furry companion.
References:
- Corsetti, S., Borruso, S., Malandrucco, L., Spallucci, V., Maragliano, L., Perino, R., D’Agostino, P., & Natoli, E. (2021). Cannabis sativa L. may reduce aggressive behavior towards humans in shelter dogs. Scientific reports, 11(1), 2773. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-82439-2
- Di Salvo A, Conti MB, Della Rocca G. O. (2023) Pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of cannabidiol in dogs: an update of current knowledge. Front Vet Sci. Jun 30;10:1204526. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1204526.
- Marliani, G., Vaccari, L., Cavallini, D., Montesano, C. S., Buonaiuto, G., & Accorsi, P. A. (2024). Assessing the effectiveness of cannabidiol additive supplementation on canine behavior and cortisol levels. Heliyon, 10 (10), e31345. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31345
