Best CBD Oil for Dogs to Help With Anxiety, Pain & Arthritis
If your furry friend is having trouble climbing stairs, chewing up your favorite shoes, dealing with separation anxiety, or just can't seem to settle down, think about adding a bit of CBD oil to their daily regimen.
CBD oil for dogs eases discomfort, smooths out stress, encourages restful sleep, and even supports graceful aging.
However, not all CBD oils are created equal. Some have a bitter, earthy taste, while others come from questionable sources. To guide you to the tail-wag-worthy stuff, we've rounded up the best CBD oil for dogs that deliver on taste, trust, and benefits, starting with FOCL Pet Relief Drops.
Best CBD Oils for Dogs: First Look
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FOCL Pet Relief Drops — Best overall (save 25%)
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Tommy Chong Captain’s Choice CBD Oil for Pets — Best for sensitive pets
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Honest Paws (OnePet) Well CBD Oil Tincture — Best for allergies
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MedTerra (Katalys) Pet CBD Drops — Best for active dogs
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Spruce CBD (Katalys) Dog CBD Oil — Best unflavored
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Penelope's Bloom (OnePet) CBD Oil for Dogs —Best for senior dogs
The ideal CBD oil for dogs contains a safe yet effective dose of CBD and other cannabinoids. It should be free of pesticides and artificial ingredients, and also come at an affordable price. Our top pick was FOCL Pet Relief Drops, which offers a formulation helpful for dogs.
1. FOCL Pet Relief Drops — Best Overall
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Broad spectrum formula for maximum effects
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Improves anxiety and reduces pain
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Marked dropper for easy administration
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Available in three flavors
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25% off on the first order
How Best It Works
When it comes to tackling your dog’s anxiety or helping an older pet that's suffering from joint pain, FOCL Pet Relief Drops can be a real lifesaver.
This broad spectrum hemp oil for dogs combines broad-spectrum CBD and coconut oil that helps to relax stress-induced anxiety, alleviate pain associated with aging, and enhance overall calmness.
Plus, it’s got a marked dropper that simplifies dosage adjustments, making it super easy to match your dog’s weight and needs.
Specs
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CBD Type: Broad spectrum hemp
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CBD Potency: 10 mg per serving
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Flavor: Peanut Butter, Wild Salmon, Savory Chicken
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Size: 30 mL
Price
Priced at $29 for 300 mg, FOCL makes it accessible to offer potential health benefits. Plus, there's an appealing offer to save 20% with a monthly subscription, making this CBD oil for dogs a smart choice for routine care without overspending.
Summary
FOCL Pet Relief Drops are a heart-healthy choice to keep your pet chill during stressful situations. The brand also offers competitive prices, discount deals, and free shipping over $40.
>>Check the best price for FOCL Pet Relief Drops
2. Tommy Chong Captain’s Choice CBD Oil for Pets — Best for Sensitive Dogs
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May help with arthritis pain
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Free from harmful allergens
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3rd party lab tested for purity
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May appeal to pets' taste
How Best It Works
Tommy Chong’s Captain’s Choice CBD Oil for Pets is an allergen-free choice for sensitive pets suffering from the blues, achy joints, or anxiety spells. Made with premium cannabis plants, this CBD oil for dogs reduces common pet discomforts, improves joint mobility, and uplifts mood.
And for the pickiest of eaters, the natural beef and bacon flavor adds a pleasant touch to the food, making consumption a breeze.
The best part? This CBD oil for dogs is free from intoxicating or psychoactive compounds, allowing your furry friend to heal without the high.
Specs
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CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD
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CBD Potency: 750 mg
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Flavor: Beef and Bacon
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Size: 30 mL
Price
Pet owners can buy Tommy Chong’s CBD oil for as little as $39.95.
Summary
Featured in popular publications like Forbes, CNN, and High Times, Tommy Chong’s CBD oil for pets is a gentle yet effective way to keep your furry friend's body and mind in tip-top shape.
While its robust potency makes dosage adjustments necessary for smaller pups, it’s a price worth paying to keep them happy and healthy.
>>Check the best price for Tommy Chong Captain’s Choice CBD Oil for Pets
3. Honest Paws (OnePet) Well CBD Oil Tincture — Best for Allergies
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Organic and non-GMO ingredients
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Supports aging immune system
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No artificial flavor
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Varied potency for different dog’s sizes
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30-day money-back guarantee
How Best It Works
If you're looking for an all-rounded potion that cares from nose to tail, Honest Paws CBD Oil Tincture has got you covered.
This full-spectrum CBD oil is literally wellness in a bottle, helping relieve seasonal allergies that make your dog miserable, strengthen their immune system to combat daily woes and provide cognitive support to keep their minds sharp.
It’s unflavored, making it easy to mix in your dog’s food and treats for hassle-free consumption.
Specs
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CBD Type: Full spectrum hemp extract
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CBD Potency: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg
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Flavor: Unspecified
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Size: 30 mL
Price
Offering a tiered pricing structure, you can select from $42.45 for 125 mg, $53.45 for 250 mg, $84.45 for 500 mg, and up to $99.95 for 1000 mg. You can even get a 15% discount on a monthly subscription.
Summary
Honest Paws Well CBD Oil Tincture has proved that providing top-notch care for our furry friends can be simple yet effective. The brand has a 30-day money-back guarantee in place; if your pet doesn’t find relief, you’re covered.
Besides that, the brand boasts an impressive lineup of other CBD goodies, including jerky treats, mussels, turkey tail mushrooms, and even probiotics.
>>Check the best price for Honest Paws (OnePet) Well CBD Oil Tincture
4. MedTerra (Katalys) Pet CBD Drops — Best for Active Dogs
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Helps maintain balance and calm
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Organically grown, non-GMO hemp
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US Hemp Authority-certified
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Flexible serving size
How Best It Works
Whether you have a mischievous terrier getting rowdy at night or a sprightly spaniel who loves chasing shadows all day, MedTerra's got the magic drops to turn the chaos into calm.
Crafted for the active furballs in your life, this pet CBD interacts with your dog's endocannabinoid system to restore balance and ease discomfort from all those wild adventures.
This high-quality CBD oil for dogs also supports joint health for endless play and promotes a calm mood for when it's time to wind down.
Specs
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CBD Type: CBD isolate
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CBD Potency: 750 mg per bottle
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Flavor: Unflavored, beef, chicken
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Size: 30 mL
Price
With options like 300 mg for $24.99 and 750 mg for $39.99, MedTerra offers a potent punch without breaking the bank.
Summary
MedTerra Pet CBD Drops are ideal for pet parents looking to support their furry friend's active lifestyle while ensuring they get the restorative rest they need.
Although this pet CBD oil is available in two enticing flavors, pet owners can always get an unflavored option for your picky eater.
>>Check the best price for MedTerra (Katalys) Pet CBD Drops
5. Spruce CBD (Katalys) Dog CBD Oil — Best Unflavored
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Relieves chronic pain and improves mobility
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Coconut carrier oil for digestion
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Free from artificial flavoring
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Dosage guide based on weight
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Ships to all 50 states
How Best It Works
Spruce CBD Dog CBD Oil has a potent formula that works almost immediately to soothe pain associated with arthritis, manage stress, stimulate appetite, and improve digestive health.
It's available in different strengths to suit your dog's size, whether it's a towering Great Dane or a teacup chihuahua.
Although it has a mild taste that blends well with kibble, we only wished it came in yummy flavored variants to have pups drooling for their daily dose of wellness.
Specs
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CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD oil
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CBD Potency: 750 mg per bottle
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Flavor: Unflavored
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Size: 30 mL
Price
The cost of Spruce CBD oil at $89. It's a little pricier, but when it comes to premium care, it's totally worth it.
Summary
Spruce CBD oil boasts a lab-grade and pesticide-free formula that sets the standard for a clean, pure choice in pet CBD. This oil also undergoes rigorous third-party testing, so pet owners can give it to their four-legged friend with complete peace of mind.
>>Check the best price for Spruce CBD (Katalys) Dog CBD Oil
6. Penelope's Bloom (OnePet) CBD Oil for Dogs — Best for Senior Dogs
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Anti-inflammatory properties for pain management
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Soothes anxiety and relieves allergies
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All-natural, non-GMO formula
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Fast acting formula
How Best It Works
If your dog is showing signs of lameness, shying away from playing, or whining more than usual without an apparent trigger, consider Penelope's Bloom CBD Oil as your go-to remedy.
This high quality CBD oil is expertly formulated with full-spectrum cannabinoids, including CBD and CBG, beneficial terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids, along with organic MCT oil and soothing chamomile. Thanks to its robust anti-inflammatory properties and muscle-relaxing effects, this oil helps improve skin health, fight allergies, and calm nerves.
It also boosts joint mobility, increases energy levels, and maintains brain health, making it especially beneficial for senior pooches who aren't as agile as they used to be. The irresistible peanut butter flavor makes it a treat they won’t turn down.
Specs
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CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD oil
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CBD Potency: 250 mg to 1000 mg
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Flavor: Peanut butter
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Size: 30 mL
Price
Penelope’s Bloom offers personalized care with their varied strength options, offering 250 mg for $34.99, 500 mg for $49.99, 750 mg for $64.99, and 1000 mg for 79.99.
Summary
Penelope's Bloom CBD oil is a perfect pick for small dogs to seasoned old timers. Simply mix it with their favorite treat or food to boost their spirits and improve their overall well-being.
>>Check the best price for Penelope’s Bloom (OnePet) CBD Oil for Dogs
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a natural product derived from the hemp plant, containing cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid found in cannabis.
Unlike THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD won't get your dog "high." Many pet owners use CBD oil for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as relieving pain, anxiety, and inflammation.
How CBD Oil Works in Your Dog’s Body
CBD oil works in your dog's body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various physiological processes. The ECS includes endocannabinoids, receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that help maintain balance in the body, affecting mood, appetite, pain, and immune response.
CBD interacts with CB1 receptors, primarily in the brain and central nervous system, influencing pain and mood, while CB2 receptors in the immune system and peripheral organs are involved in inflammation.
CBD helps modulate these receptors, enhancing the body's natural ability to maintain balance without causing psychoactive effects.
Additionally, CBD affects neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin and anandamide, contributing to a sense of calm, improved mood, and pain relief in your dog.
Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs
Let's explore how this remarkable oil can enhance your dog's quality of life.
Improved Appetite and Digestion
If your dog has lost their appetite due to illness or treatment, CBD oil can help stimulate their hunger [1].
It also supports digestive health by reducing nausea and vomiting, ensuring your furry friend gets the nutrients they need.
Skin Conditions and Allergies
CBD oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help dogs suffering from skin conditions and allergies [2]. It reduces itching, redness, and swelling, promoting healthier skin. Its soothing effects also help manage allergic reactions and discomfort.
Seizures and Epilepsy
One of the most researched benefits of CBD oil is its potential to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs with epilepsy [3].
By modulating the ECS and neurotransmitter activity, CBD provides relief for dogs suffering from this debilitating condition.
Cancer Symptoms Management
CBD oil can help manage symptoms related to cancer and its treatments in dogs. It may alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve appetite. While some studies show potential anti-tumor effects, more research is needed.
Digestive Disorders
CBD oil supports dogs with digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) [4]. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Pain and Inflammation Management
CBD oil is well-known for its pain-relieving properties [5]. It helps manage chronic pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis, injuries, or surgery. By interacting with the ECS, CBD provides significant relief and improves your dog's quality of life.
Anxiety and Stress Relief
If your dog experiences anxiety and stress, CBD oil's calming effects can help [6]. It manages symptoms of separation anxiety, noise phobias, and general nervousness. Through promoting relaxation without sedation, CBD oil improves your dog's overall well-being.
Factors to Consider When Selecting CBD Oil Products
When choosing CBD oil products for dog or cats, you want to make sure you get the best for your needs. Let’s dive into what you should look for.
CBD Potency and Concentration
First things first, the potency and concentration of CBD in a product are crucial for its effectiveness. If you're dealing with severe symptoms, higher potency products are your best bet.
On the other hand, if you're new to CBD or managing mild symptoms, lower concentrations might be more appropriate.
Brand Reputation and Transparency
Next up, the brand's reputation and transparency are key. You want to go for brands with a solid reputation and a commitment to transparency.
Reputable brands like FOCL are an open book about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and product testing.
Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate CBD
Now, let’s talk about the type of CBD: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate. Full-spectrum CBD includes all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD has a range of cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC. Then, there’s CBD isolate, which is pure CBD without any other cannabinoids or terpenes.
Customer Reviews
Customer review can be a goldmine of information about a product’s effectiveness and quality. Read up on feedback regarding taste, effectiveness, and any side effects.
These reviews can give you a clear picture of how well a product works for others with similar needs.
Extraction Method (CO2 vs. Solvent)
Here’s another important factor: the extraction method. This affects the purity and safety of the CBD product. CO2 extraction is often hailed as the gold standard because it’s clean and efficient, yielding high-quality CBD without harmful residues.
Conversely, solvent extraction (using substances like ethanol or butane) can leave behind residues that might be harmful. So, it’s wise to choose CBD products that use CO2 extraction for a higher level of purity and safety.
Third-Party Lab Testing
Finally, let’s talk about third-party lab testing. This step ensures the product contains the advertised amount of CBD and is free from contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents.
Always check for these lab reports before buying a CBD product to make sure you’re getting a safe and effective product.
>>Check the best price for FOCL Pet Relief Drops
How Much CBD Oil Should You Give Your Dog?
Generally, a common starting dose is 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. It's best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved.
How Fast Does CBD Oil Kick in for Dogs?
The time it takes for CBD oil to take effect in dogs can vary based on factors such as the method of administration and the dog's metabolism.
When administered sublingually (under the tongue), CBD oil can start working within 15-30 minutes. When mixed with food or water, it may take longer, typically 30-90 minutes.
How to Administer CBD Oil to Dogs
When it comes to administering CBD oil to your dog, there are a few effective methods to consider.
Sublingual CBD Oil Dosing for Dogs
Administering CBD oil sublingually involves placing drops of the oil directly under your dog’s tongue. Why? This method allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes.
Here’s how you do it: use a dropper to place the recommended dose under your dog's tongue. Hold your dog’s mouth closed for a few seconds to ensure they swallow it. It’s quick, efficient, and gets the CBD working faster.
Dosing CBD Oil in Dog Food
Mixing CBD oil into your dog’s food is another easy and effective method. Especially if your dog is a picky eater or doesn’t like the taste of the oil, this trick can be a lifesaver.
Simply measure the appropriate dose and mix it into their regular meal. Just keep in mind, this method might take a bit longer to kick in since the CBD needs to be digested and absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract.
Dosing CBD Oil Tinctures in Dog Water
Another convenient option is adding CBD oil to your dog’s water bowl. Measure the correct dosage and mix it into their water. Make sure your dog drinks the entire bowl to get the full dose.
This method is super convenient, but there’s a catch: it may not be as precise if your dog doesn’t drink all the water at once or prefers multiple small sips throughout the day.
Common Side Effects of CBD Oil in Dogs
Common side effects of CBD oil in dogs include drowsiness or sedation, which is often dose-dependent, meaning higher doses are more likely to make your dog sleepy. Appetite changes may also occur, with some dogs feeling hungrier and others eating less.
CBD oil can cause dry mouth, leading to increased thirst, so it's important to ensure your dog has access to fresh water. Additionally, some dogs may experience stomach upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, particularly when starting CBD oil.
This is usually temporary and can be minimized by starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it, or by giving the CBD oil with food.
FAQs
Here, we answer a few frequently asked questions about the best cbd oils for dogs.
Can CBD Oil Make Dogs High?
No, CBD oil will not make dogs high. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive component of marijuana, CBD does not produce a "high."
How Long Does It Take for CBD Oil to Work in Dogs?
When given sublingually (under the tongue), it typically takes 15-30 minutes to start working.
When mixed with food or water, it can take 30-90 minutes.
Is It Safe to Give CBD Oil to Puppies or Senior Dogs?
Yes, CBD oil can be safe for both puppies and senior dogs when used appropriately. However, it is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it, monitoring for any adverse reactions.
Is It Good to Give CBD Oil to Dogs?
CBD oil can offer several potential benefits for dogs, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, improving mobility in dogs with arthritis, and promoting overall well-being.
Do Vets Recommend CBD for Dogs?
Many veterinarians recognize the potential benefits of CBD for dogs and may recommend it for certain conditions such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, and seizures.
How Do I Apply CBD Oil to My Dog?
You can administer CBD oil to your dog with sublingual dosing where you use a dropper to place the recommended dose of CBD oil under your dog’s tongue.
You can also mix it with food, which may take longer to take effect but is convenient and easy. Alternatively adding it to their water bowl ensures they drink the entire bowl to receive the full dose.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have an anxious rescue dog, an older pup with arthritis, or one dealing with an inflammatory condition, you naturally want the best for your dog's health.
Given its potential to alleviate pain and tackle some common health issues in pets, CBD is attracting more scientific research and a growing number of companies are offering CBD products for pets.
After reviewing many options available, FOCL Pet Relief Drops stood out. This certified organic oil offers a gentle dose and great value, making it our top choice.
References:
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Fallahi S, Bobak Ł, Opaliński S. Hemp in Animal Diets-Cannabidiol. Animals (Basel). 2022 Sep 22;12(19):2541. doi: 10.3390/ani12192541. PMID: 36230282; PMCID: PMC9559627.
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Atalay S, Jarocka-Karpowicz I, Skrzydlewska E. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Dec 25;9(1):21. doi: 10.3390/antiox9010021. PMID: 31881765; PMCID: PMC7023045.
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Rozental AJ, Weisbeck BG, Corsato Alvarenga I, Gustafson DL, Kusick BR, Rao S, Bartner LR, McGrath S. The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as adjunct treatment for drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double-blinded crossover study. J Vet Intern Med. 2023 Nov-Dec;37(6):2291-2300. doi: 10.1111/jvim.16912. Epub 2023 Oct 27. PMID: 37889215; PMCID: PMC10658598.
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Mlost J, Bryk M, Starowicz K. Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment: Focus on Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Nov 23;21(22):8870. doi: 10.3390/ijms21228870. PMID: 33238607; PMCID: PMC7700528.
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Hunt ABG, Flint HE, Logan DW, King T. A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Front Vet Sci. 2023 Feb 22;10:1112604. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1112604. PMID: 36908527; PMCID: PMC9992179.
