In times when CBD has proven to help ease anxiety and manage various ailments, it is only natural for pet owners to want to calm their pets using this naturally derived alternative.
CBD for dogs has become a popular way to support canine wellness naturally. But if you’re a dog parent exploring CBD, you might wonder: Should I use CBD oil or CBD treats for my dog?
Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your loyal companion.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound from the hemp plant. Unlike THC, CBD won’t make your dog high, as hemp products contain little to no THC.
CBD works with your dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps balance things like mood, pain, and immune function. That’s why many pet owners use CBD to support their dog’s wellness in a natural way.
CBD may help with:
- anxiety (calming nerves during storms or fireworks)
- pain and arthritis (supporting mobility)
- inflammation (reducing swelling)
- seizures (some studies show positive effects)
- digestive issues (nausea or poor appetite)
You’ll usually find CBD for dogs in two main forms:
- CBD oil — a liquid you can give directly or mix into food
- CBD treats — dog-friendly snacks with measured CBD doses
Both options have their own pros and cons, depending on your dog’s needs.
What Is CBD Oil and How to Use CBD Oil for Dogs
CBD oil is a liquid extract of hemp. It is typically sold in small bottles with a dropper. It usually comes with a dropper, making it easy to measure and adjust the dose. Here are some simple ways to give it to your dog:
- Place drops directly in your dog’s mouth:
Fastest results, as CBD absorbs under the tongue and enters the bloodstream quickly. It can be tricky if your dog dislikes the taste. - Mix it into their food:
Easy for picky eaters, though effects take longer since CBD goes through digestion. - Apply it on a treat:
Drip CBD oil onto a soft treat to combine taste and health benefits in one simple step.
Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs
- Fast absorption: Since CBD oil can be given directly into the mouth, it enters your dog’s bloodstream more quickly than solid treats, offering faster relief from pain, anxiety, or other issues.
- Flexible dosing: With the dropper, you have full control over how much CBD you give your dog. This flexibility is helpful if you need to adjust the dose based on your dog’s weight, age, or health condition.
- Higher potency: CBD oils are generally more concentrated, so you may only need a few drops to achieve the desired effect. This can be more economical in the long run.
- Easy to mix with meals: Because it’s a liquid, CBD oil blends well with most types of dog food, making it simple to include in your dog’s routine without creating a fuss.
Drawbacks of CBD Oil for Dogs
- Some dogs don’t like the taste: CBD oil has an earthy, hemp-like flavor that some dogs might find unpleasant, making them reluctant to take it directly.
- Harder to give to picky eaters: If your dog is very fussy about food or treats, they might refuse to eat anything with CBD oil on it, even if you try to hide it.
- Requires more measuring:Unlike pre-dosed CBD treats, oils need careful measurement with a dropper each time you give it. This can feel a bit complicated for some pet owners, especially when starting out.
What Are CBD Treats for Dogs?
CBD treats are crunchy or soft snacks infused with CBD. They look and taste just like regular dog biscuits.
- Give them as a reward: CBD treats work like any other reward. After training or when your dog obeys a command, offer a CBD treat so they feel positive and benefit from its calming effects.
- Include in daily routine: Add CBD treats to their usual treat schedule — for example, one in the morning and one in the evening, following the recommended dosage. This supports their daily wellness routine.
Reinforce good behavior: Use CBD treats to encourage calmness during stressful events, like car rides. They conveniently combine training rewards with soothing effects.
Benefits of CBD Treats for Dogs
- Tasty and dog-friendly flavors: CBD treats are usually made in flavors dogs love, like peanut butter, chicken, or beef. This makes them far more appealing than plain CBD oil, especially for picky eaters.
- Easy to give, like any normal treat: There’s no mess, no measuring, and no dropper involved. You just offer the treat to your dog, and they’ll happily eat it, making it a stress-free experience for you both.
- Pre-measured dosage per treat: Each treat has a set amount of CBD, so you don’t have to worry about measuring the correct dose each time. This is helpful for pet owners who prefer a straightforward, consistent dosage.
- Convenient for on-the-go: CBD treats are easy to carry in a bag or keep in your pocket. Whether you’re traveling, visiting the vet, or heading to the park, they’re a quick and simple way to help keep your dog calm and comfortable.
Drawbacks of CBD Treats for Dogs
- Slower absorption due to digestion: Because treats must pass through your dog’s digestive system before the CBD is absorbed, they take longer to start working — usually around 45 to 90 minutes.
- Less precise dosing compared to oil: Since each treat has a fixed CBD amount, you can’t easily fine-tune the dose if your dog needs slightly more or less. This might be limiting if you want to adjust the amount for their size or condition.
- Limited flavor or ingredient options for allergies: Some CBD treats include grains, flavorings, or additives that might not suit dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Always check the ingredient list if your dog has dietary restrictions.
CBD Oil vs. CBD Treats: A Simple Comparison
When deciding between CBD oil and CBD treats for your dog, it helps to weigh their key differences side by side.
- Ease of Use
CBD treats win when it comes to convenience. They look and taste like any other treat, making even picky dogs more willing to eat them without fuss. You can easily include them in your dog’s routine, whether you’re at home or on the go.
On the other hand, CBD oil can be harder to give if your dog dislikes its earthy hemp flavor or if you struggle using a dropper. - Dosing Control
CBD oil offers more precise dosing. Thanks to the dropper, you can adjust the amount drop by drop depending on your dog’s size, age, or specific needs. This is great if you need flexibility or have to slowly increase your dog’s dosage.
In contrast, CBD treats have a pre-measured amount of CBD per piece, which is easier for beginners but less flexible if you want to fine-tune the dose. - Ingredient Quality
Whether you choose CBD oil or treats, always check the product label. Look for organic hemp, third-party lab testing, and products without artificial flavors, colors, or harmful preservatives. CBD oils generally have fewer ingredients, often just hemp extract and a carrier oil like coconut or hempseed oil, making them a simpler choice for dogs with sensitivities.
CBD treats, on the other hand, may include grains, added flavors, or other ingredients, so they need a closer look if your dog has allergies. - Affordability
Pricing can vary depending on quality, brand, and strength. CBD oils might seem expensive at first, but they usually last longer since you can measure out exactly what you need.
CBD treats are super convenient, but if you’re giving them daily, especially for a big dog, they may cost more over time. - Speed of Effect
CBD oil tends to work faster because it can be absorbed more directly through your dog’s mouth and gums, taking around 20–40 minutes to kick in.
CBD treats must go through the digestive system, which can delay effects for 45–90 minutes.
In summary, choose CBD oil if you want quick effects, flexible dosing, and a simpler ingredient list. Go for CBD treats if you prefer convenience, ease of use, and a product that feels just like a normal dog snack.
Quick Comparison Table
Feature | CBD Oil | CBD Treats |
Absorption | Faster (20–40 min) | Slower (45–90 min) |
Ease of Us | Requires dropper, some effort | Simple and tasty for dogs |
Dosing | Highly adjustable | Fixed per treat |
Convenience | Can mix into meals | Ready-to-serve snack |
Flavor | Hemp taste | Flavored like dog treats |
Price | Longer-lasting per bottle | Can be more expensive over time |
Safety Tips Before Giving CBD to Your Dog
- Always start with a low dose and watch for side effects
- Check for third-party lab testing
- Use products made specifically for pets
- Avoid products with THC (should be under 0.3%)
- Monitor your dog for any changes
If you see vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or unusual behavior, stop the CBD and call your vet.
Final Thoughts
CBD can be a gentle way to help dogs feel better, whether they’re anxious, in pain, or just getting older. CBD oil vs. CBD treats come down to what suits your dog’s needs and your own convenience.
Remember: Always choose high-quality, tested CBD products made specifically for pets, and talk to your vet if you’re unsure. In case you are finding a reliable source to procure CBD treats for your beloved pet, Greenstone is a one-stop shop for all your needs. Browse through the products and you’ll find exactly what you are looking for.
A happy, healthy dog is always worth the effort!
FAQs
Yes, CBD is generally safe when given at proper doses and made for pets, but always check with your vet.
It’s best to use CBD products formulated for dogs to avoid harmful additives.
Effects typically last 4–8 hours depending on the product and your dog’s metabolism.
Most owners start with once or twice daily, but follow the product instructions or your vet’s advice.
No. CBD is non-psychoactive and should contain very low THC, so it won’t make your dog high.