STOP SCROLLING: How CBD Can Help Your Dog Chill, Move & Thrive—What Vets Wish You Knew

How CBD can boost your dog's health and happiness

Authored by Sassafras Lowrey, CTDI

CBD—the natural, non-intoxicating bit pulled from the cannabis plant—is shaking up the pet world. It won't lift your pup into a high, and both studies and real-world use hint it may ease pain, anxiety, and overall wellness. Here's the science in plain terms.

More Tail WagsFor dogs battling arthritis or joint aches, CBD may help them move with less hurt. A Cornell University clinical trial found dogs given CBD showed real gains in mobility and daily activity, making walks and play more fun.

Dogs given CBD showed real gains in mobility and daily activity.

CBD's anti-inflammatory nature likely plays a big part. Lab work shows CBD can cut the making of inflammatory molecules in canine immune cells, hinting it may calm the body's inflammatory reply.

Sound sensitivity is common in dogs, so when socializing puppies it’s wise to get them used to different sounds—something guardians can easily do at home. Blenders, hair clippers, washing machines, and other household appliances are important to expose pups to. You can also search online for noises like car horns, trucks, planes, fireworks, and thunder that tend to unsettle dogs. Start very low and pair the sound with treats or playtime—play it while you’re playing with the puppy, and while he eats meals or treats. The goal is positive associations with new sounds. You can also drop loud (but unbreakable) items to make noise across the room, again with toys and treats. Move at your puppy’s pace; sound socialization should never scare him, only build happy links to strange or loud noises so the grown dog is less bothered by them out in the world.

Because of COVID-19, safe introductions to people and animals outside your household aren’t possible—but if you have a front yard, porch, or deck, you can let your puppy (at a safe distance) watch the wider world. Keep treats and toys handy and reward calm behaviour. If he gets over-excited seeing people or dogs pass, grab his attention with treats or toys, then reward. This can’t replace real-life outings, but distanced socialization helps build future positive associations.

From thunderstorms to vet runs, loads of dogs fight anxiety. Observational studies and owner notes suggest CBD can spark calmer behaviour, helping pets stay relaxed when stress hits.