If you’ve come across hemp oil and CBD oil products being sold for dogs, you might be wondering what they are, what the difference is, and which option is the best for your pup – if any.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the difference between these products, the benefits each has to offer, and which is better for certain situations. We’ll also discuss some tips to help you buy high-quality CBD products for your dog.
TAKEAWAY:
- Hemp oil doesn’t contain significant amounts of CBD, whereas CBD oil does. Whereas CBD oil has therapeutic potential for sleep and physical comfort in dogs, hemp oil instead contains ingredients that are beneficial for your dog’s nutrition.
- Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, while CBD oil is made from the whole plant, including its stalks, leaves, and flowers.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hempseed oil (commonly referred to as hemp oil) is an oil made from hemp, a variant of the cannabis sativa plant that contains little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for creating a head high.
Hemp oil is not the same as CBD oil. CBD oil is made from the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant, which are rich in cannabidiol (CBD), a beneficial cannabinoid, as well as other cannabinoids.
Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant. It may contain trace amounts of CBD, but CBD is not an active ingredient in it.
Instead, hemp oil is nutritionally dense and contains beneficial ingredients like healthy fats (omega-3 and omega-6) and all nine essential amino acids, which the body uses to make protein.
How is hemp oil made?
Hemp oil is obtained by cold-pressing hemp seeds, which are 49% edible oil by weight. The seeds are first cleaned, and then they are pressed. The resulting oil is dark or clear light green in color, with darker oils being grassier in flavor.
Hemp oil can be safely consumed for its nutritional benefits, or, it can be refined for use in body care products and lubricants, paints, inks, and fuel. During the refining process, it takes on a clear, colorless, mostly flavorless quality.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is an oil-based product containing cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid that naturally occurs in the hemp plant. Hemp is a type of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. This is purely a legal definition; in practice, it’s the same plant with the same benefits, minus the high THC concentration in raw form.
Research suggests CBD has a variety of benefits in humans, but it’s also been studied for its therapeutic potential in animals, particularly, dogs and cats.
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in both humans and animals. By supporting this bodily system, it helps to promote mental and physical balance, thereby rendering all of its beneficial effects for various uses.
How is CBD oil made?
CBD oil is made by performing various extraction processes on the hemp plant, including on its stalks, leaves, and flowers, and then combining the resulting extract with a carrier oil.
While there are many different CBD extraction methods, the most common is CO2 extraction. This method involves using supercritical (ultra-pressurized) carbon dioxide (CO2) to separate hemp into oil and plant material. The CO2 is then evaporated from the oil, leaving behind pure, unrefined CBD extract.
This CBD extract is then refined and combined with a carrier oil (typically medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil or coconut oil) to create the finished product that can be given to dogs or consumed by humans.
Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: What’s the Difference?
Hemp oil and CBD (cannabidiol) both come from the hemp plant (a variety of the cannabis sativa plant). However, they’re quite a bit different.
Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, whereas CBD is extracted from the whole plant, including the stems, leaves, and flowers.
Hemp oil is nutritionally dense — it’s high in healthy fats and proteins, including omega-3, omega-6, and amino acids. You can find hemp seeds at most grocery stores.
CBD, on the other hand, has little dietary value by itself. Instead, it’s one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant that has many potential therapeutic and medicinal benefits. It’s typically mixed with other ingredients (e.g. carrier oil) to make it palatable for animals and humans.
Whereas hemp oil and hemp seeds can complement your dog’s diet, CBD is best used for specific therapeutic uses, such as sleep, physical discomfort, or noise-related anxiety (though to be clear, CBD isn’t a proven treatment for any condition).
Benefits of Hemp Oil for Dogs
Research suggests hempseed oil has a variety of potential benefits for dogs:
Skin and coat health
Anecdotal evidence suggests hemp oil can improve a variety of canine skin conditions, including eczema, dandruff, dry nose, rashes, and dermatitis. A 2005 study demonstrated hemp oil’s efficacy in humans, and similar benefits can be seen in dogs [1].
Immune health and organ function
Hemp seed oil contains a variety of antioxidants, including vitamin E, which boost immunity, cell renewal, and organ function in dogs.
Gut health
Research suggests the omega-3 acids in hemp oil can boost gut health [2]. This can be especially beneficial if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Inflammation
Research has found omega-3 acids, which hemp oil contains in abundance, to have anti-inflammatory properties. This means hemp oil may be beneficial for both internal and external inflammation (i.e. for topical application on the skin) [3].
Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs
Research suggests CBD oil has a variety of potential therapeutic benefits for dogs, based on its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and other mechanisms:
Pain, inflammation, and arthritis
Research suggests CBD may have analgesic (pain-reducing) and anti-inflammatory properties in dogs.
In a 2018 study, dogs were given either CBD oil or placebo oil every 12 hours for 4 weeks. The researchers found that, across two tests, the dogs who were given CBD oil showed a significant decrease in pain and increase in activity [4].
Anxiety
Research suggests CBD may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties in dogs.
In a 2023 study, researchers tested the effects of CBD for dogs with separation anxiety and travel anxiety.
Dogs who received a 4 mg/kg dose of CBD showed fewer signs of stress than those who didn’t, with the researchers noting that in some tests, the dogs who were given CBD experienced “a significant reduction in canine stress compared to the placebo group” [5].
Aggression
Many pet parents have turned to CBD for dog aggression because they find that CBD’s calming properties also apply to aggression in dogs.
Anecdotal evidence suggests CBD has therapeutic potential for aggression toward other dogs as well as toward humans.
Fear of loud noises
Anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD’s calming effects may help dogs stay calm in the presence of loud noises, especially fireworks.
Many pet parents use CBD on the 4th of July, New Year’s Eve, and other occasions to help their dog stay calm as people set off fireworks.
Sleep
Research has found that CBD promotes better sleep in rats, and anecdotal evidence suggests many of these same benefits also apply to dogs.
In a 2013 study, the total percentage of sleep significantly increased in the rats that were given doses of 10 or 40mg/kg of CBD, as compared to the placebo group [6].
Given CBD’s other benefits for dogs – and how the issues it may address often tie into sleep – it’s clear that CBD may positively influence your dog’s sleep in a variety of ways.
Skin health & itching
Several studies suggest CBD may help with itching and skin discomfort in dogs.
One study, which examined 8 dogs with canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), found that CBD “decreased the occurrence of [itching] in dogs with CAD when ingested twice a day [7].”
Epilepsy
Research suggests CBD may help with seizures and epilepsy in dogs.
A study that tested CBD for seizures in dogs with genetic epilepsy yielded promising results: 6 of the 14 dogs showed a 50% reduction in epileptic activity after receiving a combination of CBD and CBDa (CBDa is the acidic form of CBD; it also has many benefits).
This same reduction was not seen in the dogs who didn’t take CBD – a clear indication of CBD’s potential benefits.
The study concluded by saying “a CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract can have benefits in reducing the incidence of epileptic seizures [8].”
Immunosuppression and allergy reduction
Research suggests CBD may have some immunosuppressant properties in dogs – in other words, it may suppress the immune response.
A 2020 study found that CBD’s “mechanisms involve direct suppression of activation of various immune cell types, induction of apoptosis, and promotion of regulatory cells, which, in turn, control other immune cell targets [9].”
CBD’s immunosuppressant properties mean it may be a beneficial supplement for dogs with allergies.
Appetite
While more research on CBD’s direct impact on appetite is needed, anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD may help stabilize dogs’ appetites because of its wide range of therapeutic benefits.
By addressing things that make your dog not want to eat, CBD may promote a healthy appetite for your dog.
Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: Ingredients
Hemp oil doesn’t really have ingredients because it is, itself, the ingredient. However, some hemp products made for pets may also contain flavoring or other ingredients.
On the other hand, pet CBD oil will contain a small handful or ingredients, which are typically the following:
- Hemp extract (CBD)
- Carrier oil (MCT oil, coconut oil, or hempseed oil, typically)
- Added terpenes (in some cases; these are completely safe)
Our CBD oil is made with both hemp oil and CBD extract to provide amplified nutritional and therapeutic benefits to your dog.
Which is purer?
In terms of purity, both hemp and CBD oil are great choices. The added ingredients in CBD are all-natural (at least in products from reputable CBD companies), and they’re included so your dog’s body can absorb and use the CBD.
Which is Better for Anxiety in Dogs?
If your dog is dealing with anxiety, CBD is the better choice because it promotes mental relaxation, whereas hemp oil mainly focuses on physical benefits.
Which is Better for Arthritis in Dogs?
Though CBD typically renders more powerful physical effects, CBD and hemp both have potential benefits for dogs dealing with arthritis.
CBD oil can support the joints and promote soothing for your dog during physical discomfort, whereas hemp oil can promote general physical health for your dog.
Which is Better for Seizures in Dogs?
If your dog has seizures, CBD oil is the better option.
More research on CBD for canine epilepsy is needed, but we do know that CBD has therapeutic potential with some types of seizures in humans, so it likely has similar benefits for dogs.
There isn’t any evidence showing that hemp oil can help dogs with seizures.
Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: Risks & Side Effects
While both hemp oil and CBD oil have potential therapeutic benefits for dogs, there are some risks and side effects associated with each that you’ll want to be aware of.
Potential side effects of hemp oil in dogs include:
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions (if your dog has an allergy)
Potential side effects of CBD oil in dogs include:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Inappetence
- Diarrhea
Additionally, one risk to be aware of with CBD products is that poor-quality products may contain significant amounts of THC and not be lab tested or labeled correctly to reflect this.
While both CBD and THC naturally occur in hemp, THC isn’t as beneficial for dogs because of its inebriating effects.
To avoid this risk, only shop with reputable CBD companies that provide 3rd-party lab tests for their products showing that they contain little to no THC (full-spectrum CBD, which contains very small amounts of THC, is what we recommend: this is as much THC as your dog should consume).
How to Administer Hemp Oil or CBD Oil to Your Dog
Whether you’ve decided to give your dog hemp oil or CBD oil, here’s what you need to know about administering it to them:
Hemp oil
You can give your dog hemp oil by adding a small amount to their food or treats. Many hemp oil products come with a dropper, making it easier to measure the right amount for your dog.
Gradually increase the amount you give your dog, following the instructions on the packaging or your veterinarian’s advice.
For skin health, you can gently massage hemp oil onto your dog’s coat or the affected areas of their skin.
CBD oil
You can give your dog CBD oil directly by placing it in their mouth with a dropper, which most CBD oils come with, or, you can add it to their food (the second option is often easiest, depending on the dog).
Start with a low dose and monitor your dog’s response, adjusting gradually if necessary. For faster absorption, drop the oil directly into their mouth, ensuring they don’t spit it out.
We recommend you consult your veterinarian for guidance before giving your dog CBD oil, as they’ll be able to guide you on how best to use it to provide therapeutic benefits to your dog.
For more, see our CBD dosage guide for dogs.
How to Shop for CBD Oil for Your Dog
The CBD industry isn’t heavily regulated, so you have to employ some careful shopping techniques to ensure you’re getting a high quality product. Here are some buying tips:
Read lab reports
Check the 3rd-party lab reports for products beforehand to ensure that they contain the amount of CBD they claim to, and that they don’t contain more THC than they should.
If a company doesn’t lab test its products or isn’t transparent with its lab reports, don’t shop with them.
Read reviews
This one’s a no-brainer. Read reviews from pet parents about the CBD product you’re interested in before you buy it — make sure it actually does what it says it will, and that it doesn’t cause any hard side effects.
Understand that dogs can have human CBD
Despite what companies may claim, CBD oils for dogs are usually the same as those for humans, except that they contain flavoring and don’t contain very much THC (or are made with THC-free broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate).
If it makes sense from a price standpoint, feel free to buy human CBD for your dog — just make sure it isn’t a THC-dominant product. THC hasn’t been researched much for dogs in comparison to CBD.
We sell both pet and human CBD oil, and the only difference is the flavoring. Our customers find that beef or chicken flavoring is often helpful for getting their dog to take the CBD.
Conclusion: Hemp or CBD, Which is Better for Your Dog?
Between hemp oil and CBD oil, the best option will depend on what your dog needs to live a happy and healthy life. If your dog needs ongoing nutritional support, hemp oil is a great option.
On the other hand, if your dog needs more specialized support for their mental or physical comfort, CBD oil can provide the relaxation and benefit that hemp oil simply can’t.
If you’re looking for high-quality CBD products for dogs, we have what you’re looking for at Natural Ways CBD.
Choose from our CBD oil, CBD treats, and CBD dog bones with strengths ranging from 250-1000mg (oils) and 10-25mg (treats). Every product is 3rd-party lab-tested, made with American-grown hemp, and taste-tested by our pups so we know your dog will love it, too.
Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we commonly get about hemp oil vs CBD oil for dogs.
Which is better for dogs, hemp oil or CBD oil?
Generally, CBD oil is more beneficial for dogs because it offers a greater range of therapeutic benefits, including for physical discomfort, sleep, and fear of loud noises.
Which is stronger CBD or hemp oil?
CBD oil is stronger than hemp oil. CBD creates noticeable mental effects of calming and relaxation, while hemp oil does not.
Does hemp help with pain for dogs?
Hemp oil, by itself, won’t directly reduce discomfort in dogs, but instead may promote overall health due to containing healthy fats and amino acids.
What is the best CBD for dog anxiety?
CBD oil is the best option for anxiety in dogs because it allows you to measure very precise doses and can be administered in a variety of ways.
Sources
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[2] Costantini L, Molinari R, Farinon B, Merendino N. Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Gut Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 7;18(12):2645. doi: 10.3390/ijms18122645. PMID: 29215589; PMCID: PMC5751248.
[3] Kiecolt-Glaser JK, Belury MA, Andridge R, Malarkey WB, Glaser R. Omega-3 supplementation lowers inflammation and anxiety in medical students: a randomized controlled trial. Brain Behav Immun. 2011 Nov;25(8):1725-34. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2011.07.229. Epub 2011 Jul 19. PMID: 21784145; PMCID: PMC3191260.
[4] Gamble, Lauri-Jo et al. “Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 5 165. 23 Jul. 2018, doi:10.3389/fvets.2018.00165
[5] Hunt, Alysia B G et al. “A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 10 1112604. 22 Feb. 2023, doi:10.3389/fvets.2023.1112604
[6] Chagas, M. H., Crippa, J. A., Zuardi, A. W., Hallak, J. E., Machado-de-Sousa, J. P., Hirotsu, C., Maia, L., Tufik, S., & Andersen, M. L. (2013). Effects of acute systemic administration of cannabidiol on sleep-wake cycle in rats. Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England), 27(3), 312–316. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881112474524
[7] Mogi, C., Yoshida, M., Kawano, K., Fukuyama, T., & Arai, T. (2022). Effects of cannabidiol without delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on canine atopic dermatitis: A retrospective assessment of 8 cases. The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 63(4), 423–426.
[8] Garcia, G. A., Kube, S., Carrera-Justiz, S., Tittle, D., & Wakshlag, J. J. (2022). Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs. Frontiers in veterinary science, 9, 939966. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966
[9] Nichols, J. M., & Kaplan, B. L. F. (2020). Immune Responses Regulated by Cannabidiol. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 5(1), 12–31. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0073
