Does your dog get anxious with fireworks or has separation anxiety? Does your dog suffer from arthritis and is in pain? CBD oils for senior dogs can be helpful in calming your dog or relieving joint pain. Discover my 7 favourite cbd oils for your senior dog.
Your dog is more than just a pet – it’s an integral part of your family. With the growing interest in CBD oil among humans, it’s only natural that similar products for dogs are attracting attention.
Choosing the right CBD oil for your dog involves understanding the different spectrums available—full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate—and their specific benefits. This article will guide you through each type’s components, effects, and ideal uses to help alleviate conditions like pain, anxiety, and inflammation in dogs. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to select a CBD oil that best fits your dog’s needs, ensuring their comfort and health as they age.
But before we start with our deep dive, here a comprehensive overview of our winners:
| Products | Best for | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| FoxyVet | Best overall | ✅Suitable for all types of dogs, THC-free and made in France |
| Naturecan | Best for small breeds | ✅Pure CBD isolate, THC and terpene free |
| CBDVital | Best ecological certification | ✅100% organic and bio, certified by 3 quality labels |
| Mamakana | Best value | ✅The best balance between concentration, efficacy and price |
| CBDVital | Best for purity | ✅THC and terpene-free, rigorously tested, allergen-free product |
| Hanfred | Best for large breeds | ✅Higher CBD content, suitable for larger or more affected dogs; allergen-free |
| HollandNaturals | Best for overall health | ✅Support for the immune system, added fish oil |
#1 Understanding CBD and its benefits for senior dogs
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound in the cannabis plant, distinct from THC, the plant’s psychoactive component. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a high, making it suitable for therapeutic use in animals, including dogs. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that helps regulate bodily functions like pain, mood, and immunity. This interaction is why CBD is gaining traction in veterinary medicine, especially for managing age-related conditions in senior dogs.
As dogs age, they often face chronic pain, inflammation, and anxiety, all of which can severely impact their quality of life. CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it a favourable alternative for treating arthritis and joint discomfort in older dogs, offering them relief without the side effects commonly associated with traditional medications. Furthermore, its calming effects can help alleviate anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of well-being. Additionally, emerging research suggests that CBD may provide neuroprotective benefits, potentially safeguarding against cognitive decline associated with ageing in dogs.
#2 What you must know before buying your first CBD oil
1. The difference between Hemp Oil and CBD Oil
| Criteria | Hemp oil | CBD oil |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant | Made from the flowers, leaves and stems |
| Composition | Rich in essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), vitamins A, C and E | Contains high levels of CBD and other cannabinoids |
| Main properties | High nutritional value | Anti-inflammatory properties |
| Use | Dietary supplement for general health | Treatment of specific conditions due to anti-inflammatory and therapeutic effects |
2. Where can you buy CBD oils
You won’t find CBD products on platforms like Amazon, due to their strict policies requiring compliance with all laws, while CBD is not fully regulated in every country Amazon explicitly excludes cannabis-derived products, such as CBD oil, from its sales.
Some sellers try to get around these restrictions by labelling their products as ‘hemp oil’ or ‘hemp extract’, which can mislead consumers due to the lack of regulation and guarantees on the actual presence of CBD.
This underlines the importance of buying with caution on Amazon and preferring direct purchases from the sites of brands reputed to guarantee the quality and regulatory compliance of CBD products.
3. Quality and third-party testing
When choosing CBD oil for your dog, give preference to those tested by independent labs. These tests guarantee the quality, purity, and safety of the product, free from contaminants such as heavy metals or pesticides. Opting for products tested in this way ensures their reliability and reinforces your confidence in the brand. In short, for your dog’s safety, select a CBD oil certified by a third-party lab.
#3 How to choose the right CBD oil for your dog?
Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs Isolate
CBD oils are divided into 3 categories : full, broad, and partial (isolate) spectrum. Those categories are determined by the composition and therefore effects of the different oils, that is why it is vital to understand this distinction when searching for a CBD oil.
Here is below an overview table of where the different CBD oils come from:
| Types of CBD oil | Components | Entourage effect | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full spectrum | CBD, cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, traces of THC | Yes | Dogs suffering from pain, anxiety and inflammation; owners wanting the full therapeutic benefits. |
| Broad spectrum | CBD, cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, THC-free | Yes, but potentially less powerful than full spectrum | Owners who wish to avoid THC while seeking the benefits of other compounds |
| Isolate spectrum | Pure CBD only | No | Owners who prefer to avoid all compounds except CBD, especially THC, to avoid psychoactive effects. |
- Full Spectrum CBD Oil: Full spectrum CBD oil contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds naturally present in the cannabis plant, including THC. However, do not worry, as this is included in just trace amounts within the legal limit (0.3% THC or less) that won’t be harmful to your dog.
This type of CBD oil offers the synergistic benefits of the entire plant, known as the entourage effect, where the compounds work together to enhance the therapeutic effects of CBD, providing potential relief for various health conditions.
- Broad Spectrum CBD Oil: Broad spectrum CBD oil contains a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant, except for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the part that makes you feel ‘high’.
This type of CBD oil offers the benefits of various cannabinoids and terpenes without the psychoactive effects of THC, making it suitable for dogs, as they can avoid THC entirely while still experiencing the entourage effect.
- Partial Spectrum (isolate): CBD isolate is a pure form of CBD. It contains no other cannabis plant compounds. It usually comes from hemp plants, which typically contain very low amounts of THC. CBD isolate is a crystal form of CBD, and it is often ground up and sold as a powder. It may also be called CBD crystals. Dog owners who want to avoid psychoactive effects generally prefer to use CBD isolate.
Choosing the right CBD oil for your dog involves careful consideration of their specific health needs, any sensitivities to THC, and your financial constraints.
I understand that many pet owners are new to the concept of CBD oil for both humans and animals, and it can indeed be overwhelming. You’re not alone in feeling uncertain—many share your concerns about its safety and efficacy.
Full-spectrum CBD oil, which contains trace amounts of THC, may provide an enhanced range of health benefits known as the entourage effect. However, if you’re worried about potential reactions or THC sensitivities, broad-spectrum CBD oil offers a significant therapeutic alternative without the psychoactive risks. For those seeking to avoid all other cannabinoids, CBD isolate or partial spectrum oil may be an ideal choice, offering CBD in its purest form without any other cannabis plant compounds.
It’s crucial to have a conversation with a knowledgeable veterinarian who can provide guidance based on the latest research and the specific needs of your dog. This approach ensures you make an informed decision that prioritises your pet’s health and well-being.
To know more about CBD and it specificities check out our other article on CBD for dogs.
#4 How to give CBD oil to your senior dog?
Giving your dog CBD oil is easy and flexible. Here some tips:
1. Give Your Dog CBD Oil Straight From the Dropper:
CBD oil tinctures for dogs are a favourite of many pet parents because they are so easy to use. With a plastic dropper for safety, you can simply squirt the appropriate amount of tincture directly into your dog’s mouth.
Of course, before you let the dog lick the dropper, make sure to take the correct amount from the bottle.
While you might be able to convince your dog to consume a natural flavour of CBD oil, it’s best to get a flavoured tincture if you want to use this method.
2. Mix CBD Oil with Your Dog’s Food or Treats:
Some dogs are not crazy about being fed from a dropper. Perhaps they have bad memories of yucky-tasting medicine. But don’t worry – CBD oil for dogs can be administered through your pet’s food and treats as well. Drop the proper amount of CBD directly into your dog’s hard kibble or soft food and mix it all together. Similarly, you can drop a little bit of oil onto a hard treat, let it soak in, and then give it to your pet – and add in a few pats and kisses for good measure!
3. Give CBD to Your Dog Topically for Skin Comfort and Pain Relief:
Topical CBD applications, including CBD balm, dog shampoos, and CBD spray for dogs, are another excellent way to support your dog’s wellness. These topical methods are a little different from ingestibles like tinctures and edibles, so here’s what you need to know about giving your dog topical CBD.
CBD balm and CBD dog shampoo enter your pet’s system through their skin. Because this application method is less concentrated than an ingestible, you don’t have to count topical CBD applications towards your pet’s daily amount of CBD. So, if you’ve already given your pet their 10 mg per day of CBD in treats and tincture, you can still give them a bath with CBD dog shampoo or rub their dry paws with CBD balm for dogs.
#5 What is the appropriate dosage of CBD for your dog?
Understanding the appropriate dosage of CBD for your dog is essential to achieving the desired therapeutic effects while ensuring safety. It is advisable to begin with a minimal dose of 1 mg/kg per day, gradually increasing as needed. Dosages vary and are categorised as followed : low, medium, or strong. Depending on the health issues being addressed, there is an appropriate dosage. A low dose is generally sufficient for managing psychological conditions like anxiety, while medium and strong doses are better suited for chronic medical conditions and severe illnesses, respectively.
- Low dose: Recommended for anxiety, separation anxiety, and other psychological issues.
- Medium dose: Recommended for chronic medical issues like a seizure, Alzheimer’s, onset of arthritis, or other mobility issues.
- Strong dose: Recommended for severe medical issues or terminal illnesses like severe arthritis, cancer, or heart disease.
Research indicates that CBD is beneficial for a variety of canine health problems. One study found that 2 mg/kg of CBD twice daily reduced pain and improved activity in arthritic dogs.
Another study showed that a dose of 2.5 mg/kg twice daily could reduce epileptic seizures by 89%.
#6 my recommendations
PROS:
Organic
100% natural
No additives
Versatile use
Choice of concentrations
CONS:
No flavour
PROS:
Pure CBD
THC-free
Lab tested
Particularly suitable for small breeds
CONS:
No flavour
Not suitable for large breeds
PROS:
Sans allergène
Utilisation versatile
Testé en laboratoire
CONS:
No flavour
PROS:
Beef flavour
MCT oil
THC-free
Organic
CONS:
Limited spectrum benefits
Non-universal taste
PROS:
High purity
THC-free
Extensively tested
Versatile use
CONS:
No entourage effect
No flavour
PROS:
Highly concentrated
Allergen-free
General health support
Versatile use
CONS:
Not suitable for small breeds
No flavour
PROS:
Immune booster
Includes omega fatty acids
CONS:
Not suitable for large breeds
Comparision table of the products
| Products | Type of CBD | Cost | Quantity of CBD (mg/ml) | Flavour |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FoxyVet | Broad Spectrum | $ | 50 mg/ml | Salmon |
| Naturecan | Broad Spectrum | $$ | 30 mg/ml | Unflavoured |
| CBDVital | Broad Spectrum | $$$ | 50 mg/ml | Unflavoured |
| Mamakana | Isolate | $ | 50 mg/ml | Beef |
| CBDVital | Isolate | $$$ | 42 mg/ml | Unflavoured |
| Hanfred | Broad Spectrum | $$$$ | 100 mg/ml | Unflavoured |
| HollandNaturals | Broad Spectrum | $$ | 20 mg/ml | Fish oil |
Conclusion
CBD has shown promise for the wellbeing of older dogs, particularly in the management of pain, anxiety and cognitive problems. Products such as the highly pure Naturecan, the versatile and broad-spectrum FoxyVet and the specially flavoured Mamakana CBD oil have been singled out for their unique formulations. They illustrate the immensity of the range of customised solutions available on the CBD market today.
As you explore these options, remember to consult your veterinarian and strictly adhere to the dosing guidelines to ensure the safest and most effective use of CBD for your aging companion.
FAQ
CBD works differently on different dogs and the effects may vary depending on the quality of the product, the dog’s health status or genetic factors. However, there is some evidence to suggest that CBD improves a dog’s quality of life, including increased movement, changes in interaction and reduced symptoms.
See the above table about the benefits of administering cbd oils.
On average, it takes about 30-60 minutes for the effects of CBD oil to be felt in dogs. Although it may take longer in some cases, after 30 to 60 minutes you should notice relief in your four-legged friend after CBD oil has been administered. If you don’t see any changes in behaviour you increase the dosage slightly.
The effects of CBD oil can last from six to eight hours in dogs, depending on various factors such as the amount of CBD administered and the dog’s weight. If the recommended dosage is followed, the dog should experience the benefits of CBD oil for the appropriate length of time.
Dogs should not be given human CBD products made from marijuana plants or CBD oils containing more than 0.3% THC or pungent terpene profiles. However, if a human CBD oil is made from industrial hemp and does not contain significant levels of other cannabinoids or terpenes, it can be consumed by dogs. Always use the appropriate dosage for animals rather than humans.
It is virtually impossible for dogs to overdose on CBD alone. High doses that are effective in treating epilepsy may have no effect on other conditions such as anxiety, whereas lower doses do.
Compared to most traditional dog medications, CBD is extremely safe and has a very favourable side effect profile. However, a minority of dogs may experience mild side effects when taking CBD, including drowsiness, fatigue or lethargy, urinary incontinence, vomiting, ataxia and hyperesthesia. If your dog experiences these or other side effects after taking CBD products, discontinue supplementation.
No. Dogs may feel calmer and more relaxed when taking CBD, but properly manufactured CBD products are not intoxicating and cannot cause euphoria. Always make sure your dog’s CBD oil contains less than 0.3% THC and is made from hemp plants.
About Javier Fernández
Javier Fernandez is a recognized dog trainer based in Madrid, specialized in canine anxiety with more than two decades of experience. His experience is backed by a Canine Behavior Modification Technician Course in Granada and a Master’s Degree in Analysis and Intervention of Behavior Problems, enriched by the prestigious Separation Anxiety Certification Program. This certification, uncommon among Spanish handlers, emphasizes environmental and external factors in treatment, rather than labeling the dog’s behavior as the problem. Offering personalized and empathetic sessions, Javier’s methods foster security and confidence, transforming anxiety into trust and improving the well-being of dogs and their owners through a deep understanding of canine psychology.
