CBD, CBG, and Your Pet: What You Need to Know Before You Try Anything
- Teddy James
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
If you're a pet owner looking for natural ways to help your furry friend live better—less pain, less stress, more tail wags—you’ve probably heard of CBD. Maybe even CBG. And good. Because they work. But before you run out and buy the first thing labeled “CBD for pets,” let’s get a few things straight. Especially about THC. That one’s a hard no for dogs.
I’m gonna break this down so you’re not guessing. Your dog’s health isn’t the place for trial and error. So let’s get educated.
The Good Stuff: CBD, CBG, and Your Pet
CBD (short for cannabidiol) isn’t just a wellness buzzword—it’s legit. It doesn’t get your dog high. It works by supporting their endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate pain, inflammation, anxiety, and more. Think of it like a tune-up for their nervous system.
What the science says:
✅ Pain Relief & Joint Support:A 2018 Cornell study gave arthritic dogs 2 mg/kg of CBD oil twice a day. The result? Less pain. Better movement. No major side effects. That’s what we like to hear.
✅ Fewer Seizures:A pilot study from Colorado State University in 2018 saw seizure frequency drop in 89% of epileptic dogs using CBD. Not a cure, but real help.
✅ Calmer Dogs:Anecdotal reports and early studies say CBD may take the edge off anxious behavior—like separation issues, thunder phobia, or general nerves. More research is needed, but pet parents swear by it.
Side effects? Minimal. Maybe some drowsiness. Maybe a little diarrhea. That’s it. And it’s rare. Baylor College of Medicine ran a 2020 safety study and confirmed it's well-tolerated in both dogs and cats.
CBG: The New Kid with Big Potential
CBG (cannabigerol) is like the parent molecule—the compound that gives rise to CBD and THC. It’s also non-psychoactive, and while research is early, it’s exciting. We're talking possible gut health, brain support, anti-inflammatory effects, and anxiety relief. No pet-specific studies yet, but signs are good. If you want to try CBG, make sure it’s vet-approved and lab-tested. No cutting corners here.
The Red Flag: THC and Why It’s Dangerous for Pets
Here’s the line in the sand: THC is toxic to pets. Period.
Dogs are way more sensitive to THC than humans. Why? Their brains have more CB1 receptors, which THC binds to like glue. And when it hits? It’s not cute or funny—it’s dangerous.
🧠 Symptoms can include:
Wobbliness (ataxia)
Shaking
Disorientation
Incontinence
Seizures
Coma
One 2018 study (Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care) tracked 213 dogs exposed to THC—97% showed neurological issues. The ASPCA confirms that even 0.5 mg/kg of THC can cause problems. Let me repeat that: a crumb from your edible could hospitalize your dog.
Most THC poisonings come from edibles or loose flower left out. Don’t be careless. Lock it up. Keep it separate. Your dog doesn’t know what a “medible” is.
How to Keep Your Pet Safe and Get the Benefits
If you want the benefits of CBD or CBG without the risks of THC, here’s the formula:
✅ Buy THC-Free Only:Look for broad-spectrum or isolate products. Double check lab tests (COAs). “Full-spectrum” may still contain trace THC—don’t roll the dice.
✅ Talk to Your Vet:Dosing matters. Most studies use 1–10 mg/kg. A vet can help you start smart and adjust.
✅ Start Low. Go Slow:Introduce CBD gradually. Watch for any changes. Most dogs adapt well.
❌ No Human Products:Human CBD oils or gummies may have THC or sweeteners (like xylitol) that are toxic to pets. Don’t risk it.
The Bottom Line
CBD is one of the best natural tools we have for supporting dogs with pain, anxiety, or seizures. CBG is coming up right behind it. But THC? Not for pets. Ever.
You’ve got to be smart. Be the kind of pet parent who reads the label and asks questions. And remember—your dog can’t tell you if something feels off. That’s on you.
Want to give your pet the best shot at health and comfort?✅ Go THC-free.✅ Stick with trusted, tested brands.✅ Work with your vet.✅ Know what’s in the dropper before you use it.
Because love is responsibility. And your dog deserves that from you.
Oh yeah, so this.
Sources for the Nerds:
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