Best CBD for Dog Anxiety: Everything you need to Know

CBD (Cannabidiol) continues to gain popularity for its use in dogs as a natural, non-prescription option for helping pets manage anxiety.  With consumer’s interested but often unfamiliar with the benefits of CBD or the best products to choose for their pet, researchers are working to help provide clarity and substantiation of the benefits.  In a Cornell University study, dogs were given CBD chews prior to a stressful event, and 83% showed a decrease in stress or anxiety-related behaviors.

Many pet owners are turning to CBD to help alleviate stress and fear, but with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best CBD for dog anxiety?

What is CBD and How Does It Help Dogs with Anxiety?

CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, more specifically hemp, and is one of over 100 cannabinoids in cannabis.  But unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn't cause the "high" commonly associated with cannabis use. 

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help regulate various bodily functions, including mood, stress, and sleep. When dogs are given CBD, such as in CBD Dog Calming Chews it may help balance the ECS, promoting a state of calmness and relaxation, which is particularly useful for managing anxiety.  With dogs exposed to many external stressors every day, CBD may be a great option to help your dog manage these types of normal daily stress, including:

• Car and plane rides

• Trips to the groomers

• Thunderstorms and other loud noises

• Fireworks

• Vet visits

• Separation

• Dog park visits

• Change in routines

Benefits of CBD for Dog Anxiety

Natural Alternative:

CBD is a natural remedy with fewer side effects compared to pharmaceutical drugs, making it an appealing option for dog owners who prefer a holistic approach.

Calming Effect:

Many dog owners report that CBD helps their pets stay calm without causing drowsiness or a sedative effect. This makes it suitable for reducing anxiety without altering their energy levels too drastically.

Minimal Side Effects:

While not without some potential side effects, CBD is generally well-tolerated in dogs. Possible mild side effects can include slight drowsiness, dry mouth, or gastrointestinal upset.

Non-Psychoactive:

 CBD is different from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. CBD won't make your dog feel "high," so there's no risk of intoxication or altered mental state.

Supports Overall Well-being:

CBD may also have additional benefits for dogs with anxiety, such as supporting joint health, reducing inflammation, improving skin health, and enhancing overall relaxation.

How to Choose the Best CBD for Dog Anxiety

When selecting a CBD product for your dog, it’s important to consider quality, safety, and the specific needs of your dog. Here’s what to look for:

Quality:

The pet supplement category can be a crowded, confusing place when trying to ensure that what you are giving your pet is high quality.  Look for products that are certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), a nationally recognized nonprofit that promotes the health and wellbeing of pets and horses.

Brands that comply with these standards will have the NASC seal of approval on their product packaging and websites. Also, make sure that the product you choose is third-party lab tested which confirms the product’s potency and makes sure it’s free from harmful substances like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents.

Dosing:

The right dosage depends on your dog’s weight, the severity of their anxiety, and the concentration of CBD in the product you're using. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the optimal amount that works for your dog. Also, keep in mind that for CBD to be most effective it needs to be used consistently to allow it to build up in the dog’s system.

CBD Concentration:

Different CBD products come in different concentration levels. 

Formulation:

Some dog products are made with full-spectrum CBD while others are made with broad-spectrum CBD.  Both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD include a full range of cannabinoids and terpenes along with the CBD, but full-spectrum includes trace amounts of THC whereas broad-spectrum excludes THC.

Consult Your Veterinarian:

Before starting a new supplement, it is best to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your pet's specific needs and health conditions.  

People also commonly ask if CBD or melatonin if better for dogs with anxiety or who have trouble sleeping.  CBD and melatonin are often combined to promote healthy sleep our pups that are restless at night.

Top CBD Products to Effectively Reduce Dog Anxiety (Top Picks for 2025)

Kradle makes some of the best CBD products and treats for dogs with general anxiety or separation anxiety.

• Kradle CBD Calming Chews 

• Kradle CBD Chillers Hard Chews 

• Kradle CBD Bliss Bars 

• Kradle CBD Quick Calm Melts 

• Kradle CBD Sleepy CleanZzz 

Conclusion

CBD can be a useful tool in managing dog anxiety, offering a natural, safe alternative to traditional medications. By choosing high-quality, THC-free products and properly dosing based on your dog's weight, you can help alleviate their anxiety and improve their quality of life. 

FAQs about Best CBD

•  Is CBD safe for dogs with anxiety?

• Yes, CBD is considered safe for pets when sourced from reputable manufacturers and administered in appropriate doses. It's essential to choose products specifically formulated for pets to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• All Kradle® products, including CBD Bars, are NASC-certified and third-party tested for purity and potency. Our products are formulated for everyday use and are perfectly portioned for every dog size and breed.

•  Can I give my dog CBD treats for anxiety?

• Yes, giving your pet CBD treat is be safe, but it’s essential to start with a low dose and monitor your pet's response. Many pet owners find that daily CBD helps manage issues like anxiety, pain, or inflammation.

• However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your pet's specific needs and health conditions.  

•  How much CBD should I give my dog for anxiety?

• The amount of CBD and frequency of dosing depends on the dog’s size and weight.  You should consult the dosing recommendation on the product’s packaging or the manufacturer’s website.

•  Do vets recommend CBD for dogs?

• The use of CBD for dogs has become increasingly popular, but veterinary professionals remain divided on the topic. While some veterinarians are supportive of using CBD to treat certain conditions in pets, others are more cautious due to a lack of comprehensive clinical research CBD use in animals. 

• For vets that do recommend CBD, it is often because they believe it to offer a therapeutic benefit for conditions where traditional treatments have been ineffective or have caused unwanted side effects.

•  How long does it take for CBD to work for dog anxiety?

• The onset of effects can vary based on factors like the pet’s size, metabolism, and the product used. Typically, you may see effects within 30 minutes to 2 hours after administration. CBD Melts which are administered sublingually will work the fastest, while other Kradle® products that go through the dog’s stomach will take a little longer. 

•  Each dog’s system is a bit different, so products may take longer to work in some dogs than others and may take up to 7-10 days to see noticeable change in your dog’s behavior. When beginning a CBD regimen for your dog, follow the daily dosing directions on the package and notice your dog’s behavior with each passing day.