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How to Use CBD for Dogs
Every dog is unique, from size and age to activity level and overall wellness. That means there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to CBD. Finding the right amount often takes a little patience, observation, and small adjustments along the way. Think of CBD as something you dial in over time, guided by your dog’s individual needs and responses.
"How much CBD should I give my dog?" This is THE question we hear from health-conscious pet parents seeking a natural way to treat and support their faithful fidos. CBD is a relatively new concept for many humans, as well as our dogs and cats—so it's understandable that it can feel a little intimidating when just starting out.
The good news for you is that we're a small-batch pet-supplement company, and we've been making holistic CBD dog treats and CBD oils since 2014—so, if you're looking for a beginner's guide to finding the right CBD dosage for dogs and the best advice on getting the desired results, you're in the right place!
Table of Contents
Basics of CBD for Dogs
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in both humans and animals, offering potential benefits like reducing anxiety and relieving pain.
Most pet products include CBD as part of a full- or broad-spectrum hemp extract. *Full spectrum* means the entire cannabinoid and terpene profile—including trace THC. At Austin and Kat, we use **broad-spectrum** extract, which keeps all the goodness of the hemp plant except THC, removed via cold extraction.
Read more about our hemp extract here!
How does CBD help dogs?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors and transmitters that helps maintain many bodily functions. CBD influences ECS receptor activity—especially CB1 (brain, CNS) and CB2 (immune system, peripheral organs).
By modulating these receptors, CBD can affect pain perception, immune response, mood, and appetite. It may also boost a dog’s own endocannabinoid production, further supporting balance (homeostasis). Research is still emerging, but benefits look increasingly promising.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
CBD’s extraordinary potential stems from its ECS interaction, opening the door to wellness possibilities including…
Situational Anxiety and Stress
Dogs can experience anxiety from separation, loud noises, or routine changes. CBD promotes calm, making stressful moments easier.
Joint Health and Managing Occasional Stiffness
Thanks to anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can ease discomfort from arthritis, joint issues, or injuries—improving mobility and comfort.
Healthy Aging and Fighting Free Radicals
CBD may promote long-term health through maintaining homeostasis and fighting free-radicals that cause oxidative stress.
How to Give Your Dog the Right CBD Amount
When choosing CBD, factor in daily dose, product format (chews vs oils), and palatability—your dog’s health and happiness come first.
Hint: our tail-wagging selection makes it easy!
Step 1:
Picking a CBD Product for Your Dog
Amount Matters
CBD strengths vary. Match potency to weight so you’re not splitting chews into eighths for a Chihuahua or feeding handfuls to a Great Dane.
Consider Your Routine
(Chews or Oils?)
Chews are grab-and-go; oils offer precision (especially with graduated droppers). Many owners keep both.
Step 2: How to Calculate CBD Dosage for Dogs
"Start with 2 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight."
Determining the right CBD amount for your dog starts with body weight. A simple rule of thumb is 2 mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of weight, then adjust gradually based on your dog’s response. Some dogs need a little more support, while others do well on less. The goal is consistency and observation, not perfection on day one.
Use the chart as a starting point, then monitor behavior, comfort, and overall well-being over the next several days. Small adjustments can make a meaningful difference.
Every dog is unique; adjust up or down as needed.
Step 3: Use Our CBD Calculator Tool
Want the quick maths? Use this simple tool below to answer a few questions and figure out how much daily CBD is recommended for your dog (plus get personalized recommendations from our formulas). Prefer a deep-dive? Check out our product pages for more information.
What is your dog's weight?
How old is your dog?
What is your pet's #1 CBD support need?
Recommended Daily Introduction to CBD
CBD Amount for Dogs: A Summary Table
2 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of dog weight
| Dog Type | Weight | Total CBD |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Small | 5-10 lbs | 1-2 mg CBD |
| Small | 15-25 lbs | 3-5 mg CBD |
| Medium | 30-50 lbs | 6-10 mg CBD |
| Large | 60-80 lbs | 12-16 mg CBD |
| Extra Large | 100-150 lbs | 20-30 mg CBD |
Step 4: How to Give CBD to Your Dog
Timing
Give CBD 20 minutes before meals or stress events. Effects typically appear in 30–40 minutes.
Giving CBD Soft Chews
Most dogs love them; crumble into broth for seniors or picky eaters.
Giving CBD Oils
Mix with peanut butter, yogurt, or administer directly. Topical use is fine if the oil is free of animal fats.
How to Find the Ideal CBD Dose for Your Dog
Give CBD Consistently. Use the same dose/time for at least 3 days; observe onset and duration. How to Adjust Your Dog's CBD Dosage?
If results lag, raise dose by ~50 %. Provide extra support on high-stress days (fireworks, vet visits, etc.).
FAQs about CBD for Dogs
30–45 minutes on average; oils act a bit faster than chews.
4–8 hours, depending on size, metabolism, and activity level.
Start with once daily for wellness; split into two servings for anxiety or pain. Add an extra dose before stressful events.
No—CBD is non-psychoactive. Overdose is extremely unlikely; excess may cause mild GI upset.
Yes—start at 3 mg per 10 lbs. Learn more here.
Hey there, I'm Lilly!
I'm the resident pet wellness expert at Austin and Kat, and I make blog and video content on all sorts of topics. Click below to explore my videos and learn more about Kat’s journey, our Seattle Makery, and how we're elevating pet wellness — one small batch at a time.
What truly makes us different?
When you give your pet Austin and Kat, you're not just giving them any supplement — you're giving them something I've personally obsessed over. As a former ironman athlete and race director - the source, quality, and ratio of ingredients in my supplements had a huge impact on my quality of life. I've brought that same mindset to everything we make today at our Seattle Makery™, and the results speak for themselves.
NASC certified + proudly made by us
When you give your pet Austin and Kat, you're not just giving them any supplement — you're giving them something I've personally obsessed over. As a former ironman athlete and race director - the source, quality, and ratio of ingredients in my supplements had a huge impact on my quality of life. I've brought that same mindset to everything we make today at our Seattle Makery™, and the results speak for themselves.
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