Study Shows Hemp-related CBD is Safe for Dogs

The results show that a daily dose has no long-term adverse effects in healthy dogs

CBD products are increasingly common for dogs, especially for those with anxieties or suffering pain, but studies on the effects are few and far between.

So it will come as good news to many DFA readers that recent research found that a daily dose of hemp-related cannabidiols (CBD) can safely be given to dogs.

The study, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, involved 32 fit and healthy beagles (half female, half male). Each was given groups of different CBD products for 90 days, with a 14-day recovery at the end. 

Based on the results, along with other similar research including a decade of data from the NASC Adverse Event Reporting Database, it was determined that a 5mg per kg of body weight dose of hemp-derived CBD was safe to give to dogs and did not result in any adverse effects.

“Research findings continue to demonstrate the safety of oral cannabidiol (CBD) for dogs,” Dr. Jeff Pollard, DVM, DABVP, and an advisor to Chou2 Pharma, told Dog Food Advisor.

“In 2022, the world-renowned Waltham Petcare Science Institute published the results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, and blinded study. They demonstrated that CBD was well tolerated and produced no clinically relevant alterations in the lab work values of 40 dogs over a 6-month period.

“More high-quality research results were published this month, March 2024, from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). They demonstrate that CBD alone and in combination with other cannabinoids (CBG, CBDA) were well tolerated in dogs studied over a 3-month period. These studies confirm the safety of hemp-derived cannabinoids that pet parents are giving their dogs.”

Hemp-derived CBD is different to marijuana (non-hemp)-derived CBD. Hemp-derived CBD should contain no more than 0.3% THC, the chemical in marijuana that makes it psychoactive and is toxic to dogs. 

These results will come as heartening news to any pet parents whose dog has benefitted from CBD products, giving peace of mind that hemp-derived CBD does not pose any significant long-term risk to your furry friend.

“As a veterinarian, I see three client populations when it comes to CBD,” added Dr. Ken Sadanaga, VMD, DACVS. “Those open to or already using CBD on themselves, and therefore open to or already using CBD with their pets. Those who are skeptical or cannot overcome the stigma towards CBD based on their perception of THC, and other common concerns. And those who are undecided.

“The second and third groups ultimately need more information and education, and a study of this size and quality helps to fill that gap. Data of this nature provides additional confidence for both pet parents and veterinarians. 

“It’s important to note that there is already an excellent body of safety and efficacy data when it comes to pets and CBD/cannabinoids — the issue is accessibility for the consumer.”