CBD for Dog Anxiety: Top 11 Products According to a Veterinarian

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Below is our best CBD for dog anxiety summary with top picks and reviews.

Yes, CBD for dog anxiety is helpful. In fact, CBD oil provides stress relief in various situations, from separation anxiety and loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms, to vet visits and car rides. 

Because of the calming effect, recent studies suggest that cannabidiol is the new “potential treatment for anxiety disorders.” Plus, pet CBD is not psychoactive and cannot make your dog “high.”

CBD for dog anxiety is a natural remedy extracted from the Cannabis plant or, more precisely, from hemp. As hemp extracts, pet CBD products are perfectly safe for dogs. However, the use of CBD for dog anxiety is not FDA-approved. 

CBD (cannabidiol) works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is present in all mammals and consists of endocannabinoids that are synthesized in the body, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. 

When the endocannabinoids bind with the receptors, they regulate different body functions like sleep, memory, inflammation, mood, immunity, appetite, metabolism, pain, etc. The goal of the ECS is to maintain homeostasis, which is a state of health and balance. Once the endocannabinoid fulfills their role, they are broken down by the enzymes. 

CBD works by replacing the natural endocannabinoids and binding with the receptors, thus supporting the ECS. Since mood is one of the functions regulated by the ECS, it is easy to see the connection between CBD and anxiety relief. 

Yes, CBD for dog anxiety may calm your pet down. CBD supports calmness and relaxation by changing the brain chemistry and improving the sensitivity to serotonin, which is the feel-good hormone. 

In addition to managing stress and anxiety, CBD for dog anxiety has other health benefits. For example, CBD relieves chronic pain, supports the immune system, and can be used in the treatment of epilepsy. In a nutshell, CBD boosts the dog’s health and emotional wellbeing. 

CBD for dog anxiety helps on several levels. CBD is popularly described as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Below we list the science supporting this description.

CBD Helps Promote Relaxation. The leading theory is that CBD works by modulating the brain’s response to serotonin and making the receptors in the brain more susceptible to this chemical. Serotonin is the so-called “feel-good” hormone responsible for happiness and relaxation. In rat models, regular use of CBD has an anti-panic effect, thus promoting relaxation.

CBD Supports Normal Emotional Balance. As mentioned, CBD works through the ECS, which is responsible for balancing the nervous system. During an anxiety attack, the nerve cells are frantically firing out, leading to a chemical disbalance. This is where the ECS steps in – it slows down the electrical misfiring and returns the chemicals in the body to baseline. In simple words, supplementing with CBD for dog anxiety, it is like hitting the reset button.

CBD Calms Fears From Environmentally-Induced Stress. Dogs feel scared when there are inexplicable changes in their environment – loud noises, house remodeling, moving to a different home, or new family members. CBD helps relieve general anxiety and can help with specific environmental stressors. For example, CBD for dog anxiety may help in the management of noise phobias.

CBD Helps Maintain Contentment During Separation. As an increasingly common behavioral issue, separation anxiety is a concerning modern dog ailment. Although triggered by fear of being alone on its basis, separation anxiety triggers the same changes as any other form of anxiety. Therefore, CBD for dog anxiety may help promote relaxation and improve sleep in anxious pets.

Dr. Walker, DVM, says, “Yes, I have used CBD as a therapy for anxiety. Anxiety is a complex veterinary issue that needs to be treated case by case, but I often find that most patients improved with CBD. Something that owners need to keep in mind with anxious pets is that it may require long-term usage in order to see improvement.”

Pet owners find it hard to choose the best CBD pet product for their dogs. After all, there are so many different CBD brands and supplements on the pet care market. To make things simpler, we have chosen and reviewed the best CBD for dog anxiety products.

Get it on Honest Paws

Summary: When thinking about CBD oil for dogs with anxiety, Honest Paws should be your first choice because it is definitely our number one. The Honest Paws Calm CBD is a full-spectrum CBD oil and is made of organic hemp plant. It is available in different strengths and is easy to use. Their CBD oil includes calming ingredients including chamomile.

Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Dog owners say their dogs “do not bark or pace as much when left alone” after using the Honest Paws Calm oil and that it is a “great product.” All in all, Honest Paws is the best CBD for dog anxiety.

What are Customers Saying about Honest Paws Calm CBD Oil?

“We love it! Remi has been a lot calmer, less agitated, and seems super happy! Thank you so much for having such a great product! She seems like she’s back to her good old self. Thank you Honest Paws. We have recommended your product to several of our friends who said they were going to get some for their pups too!”
– Alexson H.

Get it on Honest Paws

Summary: From positive reviews and success stories to media mentions and 5-star ratings, Honest Paws is a vet-approved and recommended brand. The Honest Paws CBD Calm treats are available in two textures (soft chews and bites), two dog-friendly flavors (peanut butter and poultry), and enriched with calming ingredients like L-theanine and tryptophan.

Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 5 mg per chew

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Pet owners say their dogs are “so much more relaxed ” after using the CBD Calm treats. They describe them as “high-quality treats” and say that they “really work.” All in all, Honest Paws offers the best CBD treats for dogs with anxiety.

What are Customers Saying about Honest Paws Calm CBD Treats?

“Helps keep our dog from getting overly excited. He had a hard time not jumping on people when they come over or knocking down our 2-year old when he gets excited which is often. And when he’s in that state he just doesn’t listen. The CBD oil with calm bites keeps him more steady throughout the day. He’s had no negative reactions.”
– Crissy S.

“We choose to live remotely on a lake in Georgia. A round trip drive to town takes two hours, so with shopping we are gone 4 to 6 hours about twice a week. Most days the weather is too hot so I have to leave my small dog at home. The Bites clearly lower his anxiety level. No more scratching the door frame or trying to dig underneath it. Makes me feel better to lower his anxiety. I definitely recommend this product.”
– Rebecca F.

Get it on Penelope’s Bloom

Summary: Penelope’s Bloom is a small CBD brand that cares for both pets and the environment. The Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats are all-natural and specifically made for dogs with stress and anxiety. They feature full-spectrum hemp oil and have 20 mg of CBD per treat, thus being perfect for large and giant anxious dogs.

Hemp Source: Non-GMO hemp

Extraction Method: Co2 extraction

Potency Options: 10 mg per chew, 20 mg per chew

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Pet owners say the Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats bring their pets “to the most mellow place ” and that they “really work.” All in all, Penelope’s Bloom offers the best extra-strength CBD treats for dogs with anxiety.

Summary: This CBD oil from Batch is created specifically for dogs and can benefit all different life stages and sizes. Using this premium CBD oil can help dogs struggling with anxiety to help promote calmness and relaxation in stressful situations. Thanks to a convenient dropper, you can easily add the oil under your dog’s tongue or mix it into their food. 

Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp

Extraction Method: Ultra-cold ethanol extraction

Potency Options: 750mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with a 25% discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Pet owners state that Batch CBD is an “excellent product” that’s “great for pets.” With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on their website, the reviews speak for themselves. Dog owners are pleased with the results after using Batch CBD for a range of issues including joint pain and anxiety.

Get it on The Natural Dog Store

Summary: Dogs Naturally’s products are made of natural and premium-quality ingredients. The Four Leaf Rover CBD is the perfect combo of full-spectrum CBD oil and human-grade MCT oil as a carrier. Available in various potencies, there is a Four Leaf Rover option for all anxious dogs, regardless of their size.

Hemp Source: Organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Dog owners say the Four Leaf Rover is an “excellent product” and “works immediately.” They say the oil makes their dogs “calm and happy.” All in all, Four Leaf Rover has the best natural ingredients in CBD oil for dogs with anxiety.

Get it on Charlotte’s Web

Summary: Charlotte’s Web is a CBD brand that believes in the health benefits of natural cannabinoids. The Charlotte’s Web CBD treats are made of full-spectrum hemp extract and added calming ingredients (valerian root, passionflower extract, and chamomile). Each treat contains 2.5 mg of CBD, thus being perfect for small dogs with anxiety issues.

Hemp Source: USA-grown hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 2.5 mg per chew

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Dog owners say The Charlotte’s Web treats “do the trick” and “they would definitely buy them again.” All in all, Charlotte’s Web has the best subscribe and save options for CBD treats for dogs with anxiety.

Get it on cbdMD

Summary: This is a broad-spectrum CBD tincture designed for anxious dogs in need of calming and relaxation. The formula contains added melatonin to aid in stressful situations. The tincture is blueberry flavored, which makes it use very straightforward as they like fruity flavors. The oil is vegan and free from THC and common allergens.

Hemp Source: US-grown hemp

Extraction Method: N/A

Potency Options: 250 mg, 500 mg

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review:

Get it on NuLeaf Naturals

Summary: This full-spectrum CBD oil is the perfect supplement for dogs with anxiety. Plus, it feature only two ingredients – organic CBD oil and organic hemp seed oil as a carrier. It can be used for different pets and comes in three potency options. The tincture is not flavored, which may be an advantage for some and a disadvantage for other users.

Hemp Source: Organic hemp

Extraction Method: CO2 extraction

Potency Options: 300 mg, 900 mg, 1800 mg

Subscription Program: Yes

Pros

Cons

Review: Pet owners say the CBD oil “works” and describe it as a “great stuff.” They say their dogs are sleeping well and feel calmer when supplemented with the oil.

Get it on Lazarus Naturals

Summary: Priced at $0.07 per mg of CBD oil, these Lazarus Naturals Calming Support CBD Dog Chews are both affordable and efficient. They are made with ethanol-extracted, full-spectrum CBD oil and organic ingredients like pumpkin and mushrooms. They also feature science-backed calming supplements such as L-tryptophan and L-theanine.

Hemp Source: Organic hemp

Extraction Method: Ethanol-based process

Potency Options: 10 mg per chew

Subscription Program: No

Pros

Cons

Review: Customers are raving about these CBD dog treats and describe them as a “game changer.” They are happy with the nutrient-density and delicious flavor of the edibles.

Get it on Fomo Bones

Summary: The Fomo Bones feature high-quality CBD isolate, calming botanicals (passion flower, chamomile, and valerian root), and the amino acid L-tryptophan. They are made in an NASC facility in the USA. Plus, the treats are shipped fast, and the shipping is free for owners signing a subscription plan.

Hemp Source: USA-grown hemp

Extraction Method: N/A

Potency Options: 5 mg per treat

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Dog owners describe these calming CBD treats as a “great product.” They also say that the treats are enticing even for picky eaters.

Get it on the Anxious Pet

Summary: These CBD treats by The Anxious Pet feature broad-spectrum hemp extract that supports relaxation and restful sleep without making dogs drowsy. In addition to CBD, the treats feature chamomile, ginger root, melatonin, L-theanine, and L-tryptophan. The soft chews come in two dog-friendly flavors and one potency option.

Hemp Source: USA-grown hemp

Extraction Method: N/A

Potency Options: 15 mg per treat

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Pros

Cons

Review: Customers are happy with these treats. They say their dogs are “more relaxed” and “sleep better” after starting to use these CBD soft chews.

When choosing CBD for dog anxiety, it is important to find a safe product made with high-quality organic and full-spectrum hemp. Additionally, you should pay attention to the following factors:

Compared to CBD oil, dog CBD treats are more practical and can be used on the go. Treats often feature chicken or bacon flavors and are therefore much easier to administer to dogs.

However, they are usually available in one potency making the dosing a bit more challenging, and it takes their effects longer to kick in.

On the other hand, the CBD oil kicks in much faster and is more cost-effective, especially if your anxious dog is big or giant-sized. The only issue with tinctures is the bitter aftertaste making them hard to give to dogs with picky appetites.

Regardless of whether you choose CBD oil or CBD dog treats, it is paramount to ensure you are buying CBD products made exclusively for pets. Human CBD products contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is toxic to pets.

Also, check with the vet before using. In general, CBD for dog anxiety is safe and can be used in conjunction with other medications. However, as dog owners, you need to err on the side of caution and double-check.

You can give your dog between 1 and 5 mg of CBD oil per 10 pounds of body weight per day for anxiety. The CBD for dog anxiety dose guidelines are not set in stone, and finding the CBD amount that works best for your dog takes some trial and error.

CBD treats come in pre-measured doses, and depending on the amount of CBD per treat, you will have to give one, two, or more treats. For smaller dogs, you can even give half a treat. Read the label carefully to find the right dosage for your dog.

We suggest starting with a small amount of CBD and increasing the dose gradually as your dog gets used to the CBD supplement. To ensure your dog is stress-free 24/7, you should use CBD regularly and split the daily CBD dose into two servings.

After you have the dose, if you accidentally give an extra dropper of oil, do not worry – dogs cannot overdose on CBD.

Giving your dog too much CBD oil will probably make it sleep off the effects. It is also possible for your pet to develop some minor side effects like dry mouth, increased thirst, drowsiness, lowered blood pressure, and diarrhea.

It usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes for CBD to start working and calm an anxious dog. Generally speaking, CBD oil works faster, while CBD dog treats take longer.

This is because soft chews and bites contain more ingredients and need more time for digestion. If you need fast results, it is best to give CBD oil sublingually (under the dog’s tongue).

The most benign medication option for anxiety treatment is Benadryl which is actually an antihistamine. However, not all dogs will experience a satisfactory level of anxiety relief, and Benadryl is not a long-term solution.

The second most popular choice is diazepam. According to one study, diazepam was described as very effective only in 24% of the cases and was more efficient in dogs with noise phobia than separation anxiety. 58% of the dog owners decided to discontinue the diazepam use due to side effects like sedation followed by agitation and increased activity, ataxia, increased appetite, and aggression.

In more severe cases, the mainstream for managing anxiety is drugs like Prozac (Fluoxetine), Trazodone, Xanax (Alprazolam), and Clomipramine (Anafranil). However, although efficient, these meds are likely to cause serious side effects.

On the other hand, CBD for dog anxiety is efficient, safe, and rarely triggers side effects. Even if there are any side effects, they are mild, transient, and easily manageable.

Yes, CBD for dog anxiety can be used with other medications. In fact, it is practical to combine CBD products with mainstream anti-anxiety meds. For example, you can use medications regularly and add CBD supplementation in extra stressful situations or the other way around.

However, before combining the CBD supplementation with an anxiety medication, consult with your trusted veterinarian.