What Is Hemp Oil for Dogs?

There are two types of hemp oil for dogs, and they each come from a different part of the hemp plant and have different effects.   

The types of hemp oils include:  

• CBD oil   
• Hemp seed oil  

CBD is not toxic and contains very low—less than 0.3%—THC content. (THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of drugs like marijuana.)   

It is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant and may also show up on product labels as “full spectrum hemp extract.” If a dog accidentally ingests any type of cannabis, THC is a concern due to its side effects, while CBD is not. 

Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, is extracted from seeds of the hemp plant and contains zero THC. It’s rich in essential omega fatty acids that may be included with other ingredients in products, such as calming supplements or joint supplements for dogs.  

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states there is not enough clear scientific evidence yet to prove that products with hemp oil help dogs—or that they are safe.  

In fact, recent studies have shown that dogs receiving the same CBD oil dietary supplements actually absorbed different amounts of CBD, ranging from nondetectable to large quantities in the bloodstream. That’s not good for your dog, since it means you have no way to tell if they’ve ingested too much or too little.  

The AVMA states that more controlled clinical studies are needed to determine if CBD oil is safe and effective for dogs. 

Some other concerns about hemp oils include: 

• Lack of FDA approval: Hemp seed oils and CBD oils are not FDA-approved for use in dogs (though this is the case with many drugs).  
• Label inconsistencies: One study found that some labels did not accurately reflect the actual amount of CBD or cannabinoids in CBD oils.   
• Contaminants: Since cannabis plants are grown on farms and in greenhouses, it’s possible that some hemp oils could contain pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, mold, and fungus. 
• Lack of consensus on the safest dose: There’s not enough research to currently say what is the safest effective dose.  
• Drug interactions: The interactions among some drugs, supplements, vitamins, and hemp oils are not well known.  

Always speak with your vet before offering your dog a hemp oil product.  

The benefits of hemp oils in dogs are still being studied, but here’s what we know so far.  

Potential benefits of hemp seed oil in dogs might be:  

• Healthy skin and coat from omega fatty acids  
• Pain relief from joint ache  

Potential benefits of CBD oils in dogs might be: 

• Pain relief post-surgery or from joint ache  
• Relief from stress due to events like car travel or separation  

Both a June 2023 study and a November 2023 study found that hemp oils in dogs were well tolerated.    

However, side effects of hemp oils in dogs may include:  

• Diarrhea 
• Skin redness (for creams)  
• Neurological signs 
• Cough 
• Vomiting 
• Sleepiness 
• Reduced appetite 

Other dangers could include:  

• Toxicity due to inaccurate labeling   
• Adverse reactions with other medications   
• Sensitivity to hemp oil and side effects  

How to give your dog hemp oil depends on why you’re giving it and which version you’re giving them. Never give your dog a hemp oil without talking to your veterinarian.  

Always choose a product formulated for dogs that has undergone third-party testing, such as the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). 

CBD oils for dogs are available in oral form, including chewables, and in liquid form, which can be given by mouth or added to food. 

Hemp seed supplements are often available as soft chews.  

Hemp oil is not FDA approved for use in dogs, and the safest dose to help dogs has not yet been determined. The best way to know the proper dose of hemp oil for your dog is to speak with your veterinarian. 

Always follow the instructions on the label for your dog’s weight, and discuss any medications, supplements, and vitamins your dog is also taking. 

However, keep in mind that it’s illegal for vets in the U.S. to prescribe hemp oil, so your vet may not be willing to suggest a safe dosage.  

It is possible for dogs to take too much hemp oil. Too much hemp oil is considered a medical emergency. 

Symptoms of an overdose of hemp oil in dogs include: 

• Loss of coordination 
• Lethargy 
• Urinary incontinence 

If you suspect your dog has taken too much hemp oil, immediately seek emergency care with your veterinarian or an emergency vet. You can call Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661, a fee applies) on the way there.

Is hemp oil good for dogs?  

The research is still being determined. More clinical trials are needed to determine if hemp oil is effective and safe for dogs. 

How does hemp oil help calm a dog?   

This is not fully known. While hemp is thought to potentially have a calming effect on dogs, it’s not clear how its stress-reducing compounds react in a dog’s body.  

Does CBD oil get dogs high?  

No. CBD oil does not get dogs “high” since it has very little THC, the compound responsible for psychoactive effects.