CBD for dogs: what do vets think?

CBD for pets is all the rage, and you may have come across pet owners who rave about its benefits. But what do veterinarians really say about it? What do we know today, and what does the law say? Between hype and scientific caution, it’s worth taking a step back to ask this question, and I’m here to do just that with you.

Things to remember

• CBD for dogs is the subject of ongoing research, but the scientific evidence remains limited.
• Veterinarians remain cautious and remind the public that THC is toxic to animals.
• To the best of our knowledge, no CBD-based veterinary medication is approved in Ireland : when it comes to your dog’s health, it’s always up to the veterinarian to decide.

What do research and veterinarians say?

Veterinarians are increasingly being asked questions by curious pet owners. And their responses remain very measured.

On the research front, studies have been conducted on dogs, particularly regarding osteoarthritis, epilepsy, and anxiety. Some of these studies point to interesting avenues, but the researchers themselves urge caution: well-controlled studies are still lacking, and the promising results reported here and there are far from proven.

In Europe, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) took a stance as early as 2021. It is calling for more rigorous clinical trials and recommends that cannabis-derived products for animals be dispensed only with a veterinarian’s prescription, at least until their safety has been demonstrated.

Veterinarians also emphasize a crucial point: THC is toxic to pets. Even legal hemp products sometimes contain trace amounts of it. If you notice any of the following symptoms—unsteady gait, extreme fatigue, dilated pupils, urinary incontinence, or vomiting—you should call your veterinarian or a veterinary poison control center immediately. To learn more, read the article “CBD and Pets: Precautions You Should Know.”

Regulations: Why Everything Goes Through the Veterinarian

In Ireland, any product that claims to treat or alleviate an animal’s condition is considered a veterinary drug. ANSES reiterates that any CBD product claiming to have an effect on a pet’s health must be authorized by ANSES or the European Commission following an assessment of its quality, safety, and efficacy.

However, to the best of our knowledge, no CBD-based veterinary medication is currently approved in Ireland. The FVE already stated in 2021 that no cannabis-derived products were approved as veterinary medications in Europe. To relieve our pets’ pain, however, there are many approved medications that your veterinarian is familiar with.

That's why I'm reminding you of this golden rule:

• Does your dog seem stressed, in pain, or acting differently? Make an appointment with your veterinarian: only a veterinarian can make a diagnosis and choose the right treatment.
• Never give your pet a product intended for humans, and keep all your hemp products out of its reach.
• If your dog is anxious, start by focusing on good daily habits: a routine, exercise, and a quiet spot. I explain everything in the article “Anxious Dogs: Recognizing the Signs and Good Habits.”

As you can see, CBD is by no means a magic cure for our pets. Just because a plant is natural doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Research is ongoing, but for now, your pet’s health is in the hands of your veterinarian—and no one else.