Does your furry friend tremble at loud noises, hide during thunderstorms, or get stressed when you leave the house? You’re not alone. Many dog owners watch their beloved pets suffer from anxiety, and it’s heartbreaking to see them so uncomfortable. Finding ways to help them feel calm and safe can be a real challenge, and figuring out what truly works can feel overwhelming.
The world of pet products is huge, and when it comes to CBD for anxious dogs, the choices can be confusing. You want the best for your dog, but with so many different brands and types of CBD out there, how do you know which one is safe and effective? This post is here to clear the air and guide you through the process.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand what makes CBD a potential solution for your dog’s anxiety. We’ll break down what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose a CBD product that can bring peace to your anxious pup. Get ready to discover how CBD might be the gentle support your dog needs to feel more relaxed and happy.
Our Top 5 Cbd For Anxious Dog Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cbd For Anxious Dog Detailed Reviews
1. Thrivin Tails Bacon-Flavored Calming Chews for Dogs: Hemp and Melatonin Dog Anxiety Relief Treats
Rating: 8.8/10
Is your furry friend struggling with anxiety or restless nights? Thrivin Tails Bacon-Flavored Calming Chews offer a natural and effective solution. These delicious treats are made with your dog’s well-being in mind, using key ingredients like hemp and melatonin to promote a sense of calm and encourage better sleep. Whether it’s fireworks, thunderstorms, or being left alone, these chews aim to bring peace to your pup’s life.
What We Like:
- Effectively calms anxious dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms and separation.
- Contains natural ingredients like hemp and melatonin for safe, non-drowsy anxiety management.
- Works as a sleep aid, helping dogs get restful sleep without disturbances.
- Suitable for both small and large dogs, offering versatile calming support.
- Bacon flavor makes them appealing and easy to administer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Directions should be carefully read to ensure maximum effectiveness.
- Results may vary depending on the individual dog and the severity of their anxiety.
Thrivin Tails Calming Chews provide a promising way to help your dog find tranquility and enjoy more restful sleep. They are a great option for pet parents seeking natural anxiety relief for their canine companions.
2. SENTRY Calming Ointment for Dogs
Rating: 9.3/10
Does your dog get stressed out? Does loud noise or new places make them anxious? The SENTRY Calming Ointment for Dogs could be the answer you’re looking for. This special ointment uses a fast-acting pheromone solution to help calm your furry friend when they feel worried or excited. It’s designed to work quickly and safely to make stressful times easier for both of you.
What We Like:
- It’s scientifically proven to calm anxious dogs.
- It works fast to reduce stress during scary or exciting moments.
- It helps manage your dog’s fear and excitement effectively.
- The ointment is safe and effective when used as directed.
- It can be used with other SENTRY calming products for extra support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions suggest reapplying as needed, which might require frequent application in very stressful situations.
- While effective, the scent of pheromones might not be appealing to all pet owners.
The SENTRY Calming Ointment offers a simple way to support your dog’s emotional well-being. It’s a great tool to help your dog feel more at ease during difficult times.
3. Get Naked Calming Dental Sticks for Dogs – Grain-Free Chicken Flavor
Rating: 9.2/10
Does your furry friend get stressed during car rides or thunderstorms? The Get Naked Calming Dental Sticks for Dogs offer a natural way to help them relax. These chicken-flavored sticks are designed to ease anxiety with a special blend of calming herbs. Plus, they help keep your dog’s teeth clean!
What We Like:
- Natural calming support: Chamomile, lemon balm, and passion flower help reduce stress. Chewing also releases calming endorphins.
- CBD-free formula: A safe, plant-based alternative for daily use. It helps with general anxiety and separation worries.
- Calming and dental benefits: The firm texture fights plaque and tartar. It also freshens breath without melatonin.
- Hypoallergenic and sensitive stomachs: Grain-free, gluten-free, and free from corn, wheat, or soy. Great for dogs with allergies or tummy issues.
- Made in the USA by experts: Created by NPIC, known for N-Bone, with over 25 years of experience. Uses natural ingredients and no artificial flavors.
What Could Be Improved:
- Effectiveness may vary: As with any natural remedy, results can differ from dog to dog.
- Availability: Might not be in every local pet store.
These dental sticks offer a dual benefit, calming your dog while improving their dental health. They are a fantastic option for pet parents seeking natural solutions.
4. Only Natural Pet Just Relax Botanical Behavior Calming Spray for Dogs – Naturally Calms Anxious Behavior – 3.4 oz Spray
Rating: 9.3/10
Does your furry friend get nervous during car rides, thunderstorms, or when you leave them alone? The Only Natural Pet Just Relax Botanical Behavior Calming Spray for Dogs might be the answer you’re looking for. This spray uses natural ingredients to help your dog feel calmer and more relaxed.
What We Like:
- It uses powerful essential oils like valerian root and lavender. These create a calming atmosphere through aromatherapy.
- The spray helps with stressful situations such as car trips, fireworks, thunderstorms, and vet visits.
- It has a pleasant, fresh scent that helps your dog relax.
- The formula is safe and soothing, with no harsh chemicals.
- It’s easy to use! Just spray it on their bed, crate, or even in a room.
- It can also work as a pet odor eliminator.
- The 3-pack is handy for having sprays in different places.
- Only Natural Pet offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- The calming effect might vary from dog to dog. Some dogs may need more than one application.
- The scent, while pleasant for humans, might not be appealing to all dogs.
This spray offers a natural way to ease your dog’s anxiety. It’s a great option for pet parents seeking gentle solutions for their nervous pups.
5. Pet Vet Calming Chews for Dogs – Dog Anxiety Relief (Beef Liver Flavor 60 Chews) – Stress Relief
Rating: 8.8/10
Pet Vet Calming Chews for Dogs offer a tasty beef liver solution to help your furry friend feel more relaxed and less stressed. These chews are designed to help with common anxieties like vet visits, thunderstorms, car rides, and separation. They aim to support your dog’s emotional well-being and reduce stress, keeping them happy and calm.
What We Like:
- Effectively supports anxiety and relaxation in nervous dogs, helping them cope with stressful situations.
- Veterinarian-operated and formulated with a blend of beneficial ingredients like taurine, inositol, theanine, thiamin, and lemon balm.
- Great taste dogs love, making them useful as training treats for dogs with anxious behaviors.
- Safe and effective for all dog breeds, sizes, and life stages, from puppies to seniors.
- Portable and convenient for on-the-go stress support, perfect for travel or other outings.
- Crafted by a woman-owned small business.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product does not mention specific dosages for different dog weights, which might require owner research.
- While a blend of ingredients is provided, the exact percentage or concentration of each is not detailed, which some owners might prefer to know.
These calming chews are a valuable tool for supporting your dog’s comfort and happiness. They offer a convenient and tasty way to help manage your dog’s anxiety.
Choosing the Right CBD for Your Anxious Dog
Is your furry friend a bundle of nerves? Do thunderstorms send them under the bed, or do car rides make their tail tuck? Many dog owners understand how distressing it is to see their beloved companions suffer from anxiety. Fortunately, CBD (cannabidiol) has emerged as a promising natural option for calming anxious pups. But with so many products out there, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you navigate the world of CBD for anxious dogs.
Why Consider CBD for Your Dog?
CBD is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It interacts with your dog’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, sleep, and stress. For anxious dogs, CBD can offer a sense of calm without the grogginess or side effects often associated with traditional medications.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for CBD oil for your dog, several features are crucial for effectiveness and safety.
1. Purity and Source of Hemp
- Organic Hemp: Look for products made from organically grown hemp. This means the hemp was grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, ensuring a cleaner product for your dog.
- Third-Party Lab Testing: This is non-negotiable. Reputable brands send their products to independent labs to verify the CBD content and check for contaminants like heavy metals, mold, and pesticides. You should be able to find a Certificate of Analysis (COA) easily.
2. CBD Concentration (Potency)
- Milligrams (mg) per Serving: CBD products come in various strengths. You’ll see the total milligrams of CBD in the bottle and often the milligrams per serving (e.g., per dropper). Lower concentrations are good for small dogs or mild anxiety, while higher concentrations might be needed for larger breeds or more severe anxiety.
- Clear Labeling: The label should clearly state the amount of CBD. Avoid products that list “hemp extract” without specifying the CBD content.
3. Type of CBD Extract
- Full-Spectrum CBD: This extract contains CBD along with other beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the hemp plant. It often creates an “entourage effect,” where the compounds work together for greater benefit. Full-spectrum products contain less than 0.3% THC, which is generally considered safe for dogs and won’t cause a high.
- Broad-Spectrum CBD: Similar to full-spectrum, but the THC has been removed. This is a good option if you are concerned about any THC presence.
- CBD Isolate: This is pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. It’s effective but may not offer the full benefits of full or broad-spectrum extracts.
4. Carrier Oil
- Healthy Oils: CBD is typically mixed with a carrier oil. Look for high-quality oils like MCT oil (from coconut), hemp seed oil, or olive oil. These oils help with absorption and can offer their own health benefits.
Important Materials and Ingredients
Beyond the CBD itself, the quality of other ingredients matters.
- Hemp Plant: The foundation of good CBD is healthy, well-grown hemp.
- Carrier Oils: As mentioned, MCT, hemp seed, or olive oil are excellent choices.
- Natural Flavors (Optional): Some products add natural flavors like bacon or chicken to make them more appealing to dogs. Ensure these are indeed natural and safe.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a CBD product better or worse.
Improving Quality:
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Choosing brands that use eco-friendly farming methods supports a healthier planet and often results in higher quality hemp.
- CO2 Extraction: This is a clean and efficient method for extracting CBD, avoiding harsh solvents.
- Transparency: Brands that are open about their sourcing, testing, and manufacturing processes build trust.
Reducing Quality:
- Chemical Solvents: Some cheaper extraction methods use harsh chemicals, which can leave residue in the final product.
- Lack of Testing: Products without third-party lab reports are a red flag. You don’t know what you’re truly giving your dog.
- Misleading Labels: Vague or inaccurate labeling can hide low CBD content or unwanted ingredients.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many dog owners have found success using CBD for various anxiety-related issues.
- Separation Anxiety: Dogs who get stressed when left alone often benefit from CBD.
- Noise Phobias: Fireworks, thunderstorms, or loud construction can trigger fear. CBD can help ease these reactions.
- Travel Anxiety: Car rides, vet visits, or plane travel can be overwhelming for some dogs.
- General Stress and Nervousness: Some dogs are naturally more anxious or reactive to new situations.
How to Use: CBD oil is usually given orally, often dropped directly into your dog’s mouth or mixed with their food. Always start with a low dose and observe your dog’s reaction before increasing it. It’s best to consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in CBD for anxious dogs?
A: The key features are purity and source of hemp (organic is best), clear CBD concentration (mg per serving), the type of CBD extract (full-spectrum or broad-spectrum are often preferred), and a healthy carrier oil like MCT or hemp seed oil.
Q: What are important materials in CBD products for dogs?
A: Important materials include high-quality hemp plants, healthy carrier oils, and natural flavorings if added. Avoid products with artificial ingredients or harsh solvents.
Q: What factors can improve the quality of CBD for dogs?
A: Factors that improve quality include using organic hemp, employing clean extraction methods like CO2 extraction, and providing transparent third-party lab testing results (COAs).
Q: What factors can reduce the quality of CBD for dogs?
A: Factors that reduce quality include using hemp grown with pesticides, employing harsh chemical extraction methods, and a lack of independent lab testing to verify CBD content and purity.
Q: What are common use cases for CBD oil in anxious dogs?
A: Common use cases include helping with separation anxiety, noise phobias (like thunderstorms and fireworks), travel anxiety, and general nervousness or stress.
Q: How do I determine the right CBD dosage for my dog?
A: Start with a low dose recommended by the product manufacturer or your veterinarian. Observe your dog’s reaction and adjust gradually as needed. Dosage often depends on the dog’s weight and the severity of their anxiety.
Q: Are there any side effects of CBD for dogs?
A: CBD is generally well-tolerated. Some dogs may experience mild drowsiness or an upset stomach, especially at higher doses. Always monitor your dog after administering CBD.
Q: How long does it take for CBD to work for my dog’s anxiety?
A: The effects can vary. Some dogs may show signs of calmness within 30-60 minutes, while for others, it might take a few days of consistent use to see noticeable improvements.
Q: Can my dog get high from CBD oil?
A: No, if you choose a product with less than 0.3% THC (which is standard for reputable products), your dog will not get high. Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC, but not enough to cause intoxication.
Q: Should I talk to my veterinarian before giving my dog CBD?
A: Yes, it is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on CBD. They can help you determine if CBD is appropriate for your dog’s specific needs and discuss potential interactions with other medications.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!