Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: Understanding the Differences

Tia Moskalenko
Tia Moskalenko

Tia Moskalenko, author of the AskGrowers blog, brings a unique blend of content to her readers. She is known for conducting insightful interviews with key figures in the cannabis industry, including brand representatives, manufacturers, and experts. In addition to her interview skills, Tia has a keen focus on CBD. She expertly curates product selections and reviews, offering her readers detailed insights into the various effects and benefits of CBD. Tia's ability to combine in-depth interviews with comprehensive CBD analysis makes her a valuable asset to the cannabis community, offering a well-rounded perspective on the industry.

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Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: Understanding the Differences

In recent times, the popularity of cannabidiol and hemp seeds oil for dogs has experienced a surge as pet owners seek natural alternatives to enhance their furry companions' well-being. Both oils originate from the cannabis plant, but it is crucial to grasp their dissimilarities to make well-informed decisions for our four-legged friends.

Hemp oil is extracted from hemp plant seeds and does not contain significant amounts of cannabidiol or THC, the psychoactive component. It can help your pet with the following: 

Pet CBD oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the cannabis plant, containing varying levels of cannabidiol. The potential benefits of the product for canines include the following:

Understanding the disparities between CBD vs. hemp oil for dogs empowers you to choose the optimal CBD products for pets tailored to your canine's requirements, ensuring they receive the finest care. Always select high-quality products from reputable sources to guarantee their safety and efficacy.

Exploring the Benefits and Uses of Hemp Oil for Dogs

Hemp oil, derived from hemp seeds, has gained popularity among pet owners because of its potential health benefits cbd for dogs. Unlike cannabidiol oil, hemp seeds oil for dogs is non-psychoactive and contains minimal amounts of THC or cannabidiol. Instead, it is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable dietary supplement for pets.

hemp seeds oil for dogs

Hemp oil boasts a wealth of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vital for enhancing a dog's overall well-being. The fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and and a healthy coat, reducing inflammation[5], and bolstering the immune system. Additionally, the antioxidants like vitamin E in hemp oil promote cellular health.

Benefits of hemp oil for dogs include the following:

  1. Skin and Coat Health: The omega fatty acids in hemp oil soothe dry, itchy skin and minimize shedding, fostering a lustrous and healthy coat.

  2. Joint Health: Hemp oil's anti-inflammatory properties can ease joint discomfort and stiffness, which is particularly beneficial for aging or active canines.

  3. Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp oil support cardiovascular health, contributing to a strong and healthy heart.

When selecting hemp oil for your furry friend, consider the following factors:

  • Opt for hemp oil derived from organic hemp seeds for dogs. This will ensure a higher quality product that is free from harmful chemicals.

  • Look for CBD treats for dog with a high concentration of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as they deliver maximum health benefits.

  • Choose brands that undergo third-party testing for quality and purity.


Read Also: Hemp or CBD for Dogs: Choosing the Right Option for Canine Health


Following the instructions with precision is of utmost importance when administering medication to your pet. The recommended dosage is calculated based on the dog's weight:

Dog Weight Suggested Dosage
Up to 20 lbs 1 - 2 ml
20 - 50 lbs 2 - 5 ml
50 - 70 lbs 5 - 7 ml

The first time you introduce oil into your pet's diet, give your pet the minimum dosage of the product to see how your pet responds to such changes.

Understanding CBD Oil for Dogs: Composition and Therapeutic Effects

CBD oil for dogs is a natural supplement derived from hemp flowers and leaves, containing cannabidiol as its primary cannabinoid.

Cannabidiol oil is carefully extracted from the hemp plant using various methods, such as CO2 extraction, to ensure a pure and potent product. Besides cannabidiol, it may also contain other cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol), as well as terpenes and flavonoids that amplify the overall benefits of cannabidiol.

CBD oil for dogs

The canine's endocannabinoid system (ECS)[6] consists of receptors spread throughout the body, including the brain, organs, immune cells, and nervous system. Cannabidiol interacts with these receptors, influencing the ECS and thus regulating various physiological processes.

Cannabidiol oil is recommended for dogs in managing several conditions, such as the following:

  1. Anxiety and Stress

  2. Pain Management

  3. Inflammation

With an abundance of CBD pet treats on the market, it is necessary to select a high-quality cannabidiol oil suitable for your furry friend. Consider these factors:

  • Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: Full-spectrum cannabidiol oil contains a range of cannabinoids and compounds, providing additional benefits. Cannabidiol isolate contains only pure cannabidiol, which is perfect for pets with sensitivity to other cannabinoids.

  • Third-Party Testing: Choose products that have undergone third-party testing, ensuring they are free from contaminants and have the stated cannabidiol concentration.

Administering the precise CBD oil dog dosage is crucial for your pet's safety and effectiveness. Dosages typically depend on the dog's weight and condition:

Dog Weight Suggested Starting Dosage
Up to 25 lbs 1 - 5 mg
Up to 50 lbs 5 - 10 mg 
Up to 75 lbs  10 - 15 mg 
Up to 100 lbs 16 - 20 mg

It's vital to consult with a veterinarian before starting cannabidiol oil to determine the appropriate dosage.

The Best CBD Oil for Dogs: A Selection of Top Products

As we explore the benefits of cannabidiol oil for calming canines and how it can be a safe and effective alternative for various conditions, we present a carefully curated selection of the best products, including CBD oil tincture for dogs and CBD pet drops.

When selecting the best cannabidiol oil for our furry friends, we always consider factors such as potency, size-appropriate dosages, and third-party testing to ensure quality and safety. The products have been carefully chosen by AskGrower's Experts to provide effective calming solutions for canines in need. 

Differences between Hemp Oil and CBD Oil for Dogs

When considering cannabis-based products for pets, hemp and cannabidiol oil are both popular choices, each offering distinct benefits and applications. It's vital to comprehend the differences between CBD oil vs. hemp oil dog to select the right one for your canine companion's specific health needs.

Hemp oil for a dog

Composition and Cannabinoids

Hemp oil for a dog, being derived from seeds, lacks significant amounts of cannabinoids like cannabidiol or THC. In contrast, cannabidiol oil is extracted from the hemp plant's aerial parts, which contain a more diverse range of cannabinoids. To learn more about the constituents in different oils, you can take a look at the table below:

  Hemp Oil Cannabidiol Oil
Cannabidiol Negligible or Trace Varying Levels
THC Negligible or Trace Less than 0.3%
CBG Negligible or Trace Present 
CBN Negligible or Trace Present 
Terpenes Limited or Absent Present 
Flavonoids Limited or Absent Present 

Hemp Oil: Primarily used for supporting canine’s skin and coat health, hemp oil's essential fatty acids reduce itching, dryness, and shedding, resulting in a shiny and healthy coat. Additionally, the omega fatty acids in hemp oil support a strong immune system, promoting overall wellness.

Cannabidiol Oil: Commonly recommended for managing specific health conditions in pets, cannabidiol oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system, potentially alleviating anxiety, stress, and phobias. It may also aid in pain management, easing joint discomfort and mobility issues, particularly in senior or injured dogs. Furthermore, it may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for canines with arthritis or chronic inflammatory conditions.

Benefits and Possible Side Effects

Hemp Oil: The benefits of hemp oil for pets lie in its nutritional profile. Its fatty acids contribute to a healthy skin barrier, reducing the risk of allergies, and improving coat condition. It also supports heart and immune health, promoting overall vitality in dogs. Hemp oil is generally well-tolerated, and side effects are rare. However, excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset.

Cannabidiol Oil: CBD dog oil offers potential benefits for anxiety management, pain, and inflammation management in canines. It may help calm anxious or stressed pets, making it useful during fireworks or thunderstorms. Most dogs tolerate cannabidiol oil well, but some may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness or changes in appetite. Starting with a low dosage and carefully monitoring your pet’s response is essential.

Hemp oil and cannabidiol oil for dogs serve different purposes, with hemp oil focusing on nutritional support and cannabidiol oil providing potential therapeutic benefits. When choosing between the two, consider your canine’s specific health needs.

To Sum It Up: Making Informed Choices for Your Dog's Well-Being

In conclusion, while both hemp oil and cannabidiol oil offer potential benefits for pets, they have distinct differences to cater to specific health needs. Hemp oil, derived from hemp seeds, promotes skin and coat health and supports the immune system, lacking significant amounts of cannabidiol or THC. 

On the other hand, cannabidiol oil, extracted from the hemp plant's flowers, leaves, and stalks, is often presented in the form of a CBD tincture oil for dogs. It contains cannabidiol and other cannabinoids, potentially managing anxiety, pain, and inflammation through the endocannabinoid system. 

Be sure to choose the right product by using the following guidelines:

  • Hemp Oil: Opt for organic, high-quality hemp oil with essential fatty acids for maximum health benefits.

  • Cannabidiol Oil: Choose reputable brands with third-party testing and detailed cannabidiol concentration information. Consider potency based on your dog's size and health concerns.


Read Also: Overview of the Best CBD Products for Pets: What Are They and How to Choose Them?


Always consult a veterinarian before introducing cannabis-based products, ensuring personalized guidance for your dog's well-being.

Sources 

AskGrowers is deeply committed to upholding rigorous research standards and ensuring the trustworthiness of our content. Our core principles center around delivering substantial information supported by evidence and refraining from making baseless assertions. Our primary focus lies in evidence-based knowledge obtained through comprehensive procedures, including peer-reviewed studies, esteemed research institutions, and reputable professional organizations. 

  1. Guosheng Xin, Jie Yang, Ruiguo Li, et al. "Dietary Supplementation of Hemp Oil in Teddy Dogs: Effect on Apparent Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Biochemistry, and Metabolomics." Taylor & Francis, 2022. Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21655979.2022.2043018 

  2. Artemis P Simopoulos. "The Importance of the Omega-6/Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ratio in Cardiovascular Disease and Other Chronic Diseases." Sage Journals, 2008. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3181/0711-MR-311 

  3. Elizabeth M. Morris, Susanna E. Kitts-Morgan, Dawn M. Spangler, Kyle R. McLeod, Joao H. C. Costa, and David L. Harmon. "The Impact of Feeding Cannabidiol (CBD) Containing Treats on Canine Response to a Noise-Induced Fear Response Test." Front. Vet. Sci., 2020. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.569565/full 

  4. Agatha Miranda-Cortés, Daniel Mota-Rojas, Nadia Crosignani-Outeda, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado, et al. "The Role of Cannabinoids in Pain Modulation in Companion Animals." Front. Vet. Sci., 2023. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.1050884/full

  5. Mecha M., Feliú A., Iñigo P. M., Mestre L., Carrillo-Salinas F. J., and Guaza C. “Cannabidiol Provides Long-Lasting Protection Against the Deleterious Effects of Inflammation in a Viral Model of Multiple Sclerosis: A Role for A2A Receptors.” ScienceDirect, 2019. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23851307/

  6. Silver R. J. “The Endocannabinoid System of Animals.” MDPI, 2019. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770351/ 

FAQ

Yes, hemp oil is generally safe for canines. It is non-psychoactive and contains minimal THC or cannabidiol. Hemp oil is rich in essential fatty acids, promoting skin, coat, and immune health in pets. However, it's essential to use high-quality, organic hemp oil and to follow recommended dosages. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing any new supplement to your canine’s diet.
No, they cannot overdose on cannabidiol oil. Cannabidiol is non-toxic and generally well-tolerated in dogs. However, giving excessively high doses may lead to mild side effects like drowsiness or an upset stomach. It's essential to use the correct dosage based on your pet's size and to consult a veterinarian before introducing cannabidiol oil to their diet.
The effects of hemp on pets can vary. Generally, it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to kick in. Factors like the dog's size, metabolism, and dosage can influence the onset time. Observe your canine's response and adjust the dosage if needed. Always use high-quality hemp oil and follow veterinarian recommendations for safe and effective use.
Yes, you can give your pet cannabidiol oil to help calm them down. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, potentially reducing anxiety and stress. Start with a low dosage and observe their response. Consult a veterinarian to determine the suitable dosage and ensure the cannabidiol oil is safe for your dog's specific needs. High-quality, THC-free CBD oil for a dog is recommended.
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