Byline: Ethan M. Stone
Prescription medications for pet anxiety relief can sometimes add stresses of their own, whether that comes from financial costs or potentially harsh side effects.
Fortunately, research on natural pet wellness has advanced, making products like CBD for dogs a relatively safe and informed option for those having trouble with other means of alleviating their pet’s anxiety.
A Natural Approach to Pet Anxiety Relief
Anxiety is common for many dogs and can stem from a variety of circumstances. The American Kennel Club reports that “some of the most common causes of dog anxiety are fear, separation, and aging” [American Kennel Club, 2025]. Triggers like thunderstorms, fireworks, and travel can stress out pets, and while there are traditional remedies available to help in these instances, they may not always be the preferred option.
Caught early enough, some anxiety-driven tendencies can be worked on with dedicated training and counterconditioning. These approaches are not always effective, however, especially for dogs with more ingrained nervousness. In these cases, veterinarians may prescribe antidepressants, though costs can vary and administration usually requires rigid scheduling and strict adherence to dosages.
Some dog owners may find natural alternatives more appealing, such as aromatherapy, pheromones, and CBD, though prospective users should still talk with a veterinarian to see if these approaches are suitable for their pet.
Regardless of the method, addressing anxiety early on is important because doing so can help prevent brief anxious responses from becoming longstanding habits. Consistently anxious dogs may express their feelings through aggression, pacing, relieving themselves inside, barking, and other disruptive behaviors that neither human nor animal wishes to experience.
CBD for Dogs and Its Benefits
Early research suggests CBD, or cannabidiol, can be safe and useful for dogs experiencing issues like anxiety, seizures, and joint pain, but more studies are needed to discover the full extent of how CBD can and should be used for pets [American Animal Hospital Association, 2024]. Still, many pet owners using CBD oil for dogs to alleviate symptoms stemming from these conditions report some positive results. Pet owners should note that CBD does not operate the same way on the body as THC, the euphoria-inducing substance from cannabis. As such, using CBD will not get pets high, though use of the substance should still be carefully monitored.
Common application methods take the form of capsules, oils, topical balms, and treats. Individual animals will tolerate each method differently, so users will want to test each one to see which one their dog is most receptive to.
Since CBD in all its forms is still relatively new as a remedy for pets, it is vital that pet owners work with their veterinarians to determine proper dosages for their animals, given their size and condition. Additionally, since CBD products are not regulated with the same scrutiny as those containing THC, pet owners will need to make certain they use lab-tested, THC-free products to avoid unwanted side effects.
Professional Insights with Dr. Kathryn Dench
Dr. Kathryn Dench, a proponent of CBD use for dogs, graduated from Cambridge Veterinary School and has been active in the field of veterinary science for nearly 20 years. Since observing the recent rise in canine health issues, she has staunchly advocated for alternative means of addressing these problems that do not involve pharmaceutical medications.
“When it came to tackling problems like anxiety,” Dr. Dench explains, “vets hand out anxiety medication like candy in a candy store. The problem with anxiety meds is that just by looking at the label, you will see a long list of side effects, reliance, and health problems.”
According to Dr. Dench, traditional anxiety medications ultimately worsen underlying issues since they tend to mask symptoms rather than treating their root causes. Addressing a dog’s endocannabinoid system, which CBD interacts with, makes dogs more receptive to lasting means of relieving anxiety, like training, allowing dogs to live lives free from fear.
FAQs:
Q: Does CBD interact with other medications?
A: Not always, though pet owners should always consult their vet before mixing medications.
Q: Can CBD make a dog sleepy?
A: Yes, though this response is rare since CBD usually just encourages relaxation.
Q: How does CBD oil for dogs differ from CBD oil for humans?
A: CBD oil for dogs lacks the harmful additives and flavorings found in products used for people; the two also differ in dosages.
