Key Takeaways
- CBD dog treats are a safe, natural wellness option increasingly embraced by pet owners.
- CBD interacts with a dog’s endocannabinoid system, promoting calm, mobility, and comfort.
- Broad-spectrum CBD is ideal for pets as it contains no THC, which can be harmful to dogs.
- Always start with a low dose and gradually adjust based on your dog’s size, age, and condition.
- Choose treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients and third-party lab-tested CBD for optimal safety and effectiveness.
EDITORS CHOICE

What Are CBD Dog Treats?
CBD dog treats are edible pet snacks that are infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound extracted from the hemp plant. These treats are designed to deliver the potential health benefits of CBD in a convenient, tasty, and easy-to-administer form for dogs.
Key Ingredients Typically Include:
- CBD extract (broad-spectrum or full-spectrum)
- Organic grains or flours
- Natural flavourings like peanut butter, chicken, or bacon
- Supportive herbs like chamomile or turmeric (in some blends)
CBD Dog Treats vs. Regular Treats
While regular dog treats serve as rewards or training incentives, CBD dog treats have functional benefits. They’re often marketed for issues like anxiety, joint pain, inflammation, or digestive support.
How Do CBD Dog Treats Work?
CBD interacts with your dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex system that helps regulate essential bodily functions like pain perception, mood, immune response, and stress levels. When your dog consumes a CBD-infused treat, the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream and binds to ECS receptors, promoting a state of balance and overall well-being.
CBD treats can provide various benefits, including:
Anxiety reduction: Many dog owners turn to CBD treats to soothe their pets during stressful moments, such as thunderstorms, vet visits, or car rides. [Learn more in our guide on CBD Dog Treats for Anxiety].
Pain relief: CBD may help alleviate chronic pain from arthritis or injuries, improving your dog’s mobility and comfort. [Discover more in CBD Dog Treats for Pain Relief].
Inflammation reduction: Dogs with joint or muscle inflammation can benefit from CBD’s natural anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce discomfort.
Enhanced calm and focus: Regular use of CBD may help anxious dogs stay calmer, reducing hyperactive or nervous behaviors and promoting a more relaxed demeanor. [Explore more in CBD Dog Treats for Hyper Dogs].
These benefits make CBD dog treats a convenient, enjoyable way to support your dog’s health while addressing specific concerns naturally.
Benefits of CBD Dog Treats
1. Anxiety and Stress Relief
CBD can help reduce separation anxiety, noise phobia (fireworks, thunderstorms), and general nervousness. Many pet parents give CBD treats before vet visits or during travel.
2. Pain and Inflammation Reduction
For senior dogs or those with arthritis or hip dysplasia, CBD can reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
3. Seizure and Epilepsy Management
Some studies suggest that CBD may reduce seizure frequency in dogs with epilepsy, especially when used alongside conventional treatment.
4. Digestive Health
CBD may help with nausea, loss of appetite, or gastrointestinal inflammation—great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
5. Improved Sleep
CBD may promote relaxation and help dogs struggling with restlessness or disrupted sleep.
Are CBD Dog Treats Safe?
CBD is generally considered safe for dogs when administered correctly. However, you should always consult a veterinarian – especially if your dog is on other medications or has health conditions.
Possible Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth/increased thirst
- Lowered blood pressure (in rare cases)
- Diarrhea or upset stomach (usually dose-related)
Start with a low dose and gradually increase based on your dog’s weight and response.
CBD Dog Treats vs. CBD Oil: What’s the Difference?
Feature | CBD Dog Treats | CBD Oil for Dogs |
---|---|---|
Form | Edible, chewable | Liquid tincture |
Ease of Use | Very easy (just like a regular treat) | May require mixing into food or using a dropper |
Flavor | Flavored to appeal to dogs | Typically natural or slightly bitter |
Absorption | Slower (digestive process) | Faster (absorbed sublingually or via digestion) |
Dosing Precision | Less precise | Highly precise with dropper |
How to Choose the Right CBD Dog Treat
1. Check the Source of CBD
Always choose treats made from organic, non-GMO, Canadian-grown hemp. Avoid anything with synthetic cannabinoids.
2. Look for Third-Party Lab Testing
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should confirm the CBD content and check for THC, heavy metals, and pesticides.
3. Choose the Right Spectrum
- Full-spectrum: Contains other cannabinoids and small traces of THC (less than 0.3%)
- Broad-spectrum: Contains other cannabinoids but zero THC
- Isolate: Pure CBD only
Broad-spectrum is often a sweet spot for dogs.
4. Read the Ingredient List
Avoid treats with artificial additives, fillers, or preservatives. Natural ingredients like pumpkin, flaxseed, or chamomile are a bonus.
5. Dose by Weight
Brands should offer a dosing guide based on your dog’s weight (e.g., 2 mg per 10 lbs of body weight).
Is CBD Legal for Dogs in Canada?
Yes, CBD is legal for dogs in Canada, but there’s a catch.
Under the Cannabis Act, only veterinary health products (VHPs) containing hemp-derived CBD (with less than 0.3% THC) are permitted. These products must be:
- Made from industrial hemp
- Approved by Health Canada
- Sold by licensed retailers or directly by manufacturers
Important:
- Always buy from reputable Canadian companies.
- Products marketed as supplements (not medicines) must still comply with Health Canada regulations.
How to Give CBD Treats to Your Dog
- Start Low and Go Slow
- Begin with the lowest recommended dose (e.g., 2 mg per 10 lbs).
- Observe for at least 5–7 days before increasing.
- Give With or Without Food
- Can be given on an empty stomach or after meals, based on your dog’s digestion.
- Track Results
- Keep a simple journal of your dog’s mood, energy, sleep, pain level, and behavior.
- Consult Your Vet
- Especially if your dog has a health condition or is on medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
CBD dog treats are pet-friendly treats infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound from the Cannabis sativa plant. They provide an easy, enjoyable way for your dog to experience potential CBD benefits, including pain relief, reduced inflammation, anxiety relief, and immune support.
Typically 30–60 minutes. Effects can last 4–8 hours depending on dose and metabolism.
While CBD is non-toxic, too high a dose may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, or loose stool. Always follow dosing guidelines.
Treats are more convenient and tasty. Oil offers more precise dosing and faster absorption.
CBD dog treats come in various formulas, including broad-spectrum and full-spectrum options. Broad-spectrum treats contain beneficial compounds like terpenes and flavonoids without THC, which can be harmful to dogs. Full-spectrum CBD includes all hemp compounds, but in trace amounts of THC that are safe under legal limits.
CBD treats offer numerous benefits, such as pain and inflammation relief, anxiety reduction, and immune system support. These treats can also improve your dog’s mobility and contribute to overall well-being.
To select high-quality CBD treats, look for products with third-party testing and a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to confirm potency and purity. Opt for treats with safe, natural ingredients, and ensure the CBD is CO2-extracted, which preserves the plant’s beneficial compounds.
When used appropriately, CBD is generally safe for dogs. Potential side effects include dry mouth, mild drowsiness, and low blood pressure. Always consult your veterinarian before starting CBD to ensure it suits your pet’s health.
Integrating CBD treats into your dog’s routine can support overall wellness. Some owners use them alongside CBD oil, while others prefer treats alone. Consult with your veterinarian for guidance on safe, effective use tailored to your pet’s needs.