There is no universally approved CBD dose for canine arthritis. In clinical studies, the most commonly tested amount was 2 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight every 12 hours, or about 0.9 mg per pound every 12 hours. That is a research dose, not a personal prescription. Ask your veterinarian to approve the dose before giving your dog CBD, especially if your dog takes other medication.
Published CBD Amounts for Dogs With Arthritis
The table below shows the amount of CBD, not the volume of oil. Use it only if your veterinarian recommends the 2 mg/kg dose.
| Dog's weight | CBD per dose, every 12 hours | Total CBD per day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 9 mg | 18 mg |
| 20 lb | 18 mg | 36 mg |
| 30 lb | 27 mg | 54 mg |
| 40 lb | 36 mg | 72 mg |
| 50 lb | 45 mg | 90 mg |
| 60 lb | 54 mg | 108 mg |
| 80 lb | 73 mg | 146 mg |
| 100 lb | 91 mg | 182 mg |
How to Convert CBD Milligrams Into Milliliters
Check the label for the product's CBD concentration in mg/mL.
Formula:
CBD per dose in milligrams ÷ product strength in mg/mL = oil volume per dose
For example, a 40-pound dog weighs about 18.1 kg. At 2 mg/kg, the research dose would be about 36 mg of CBD per dose. If the oil contains 20 mg/mL, that works out to about 1.8 mL per dose.
Do not use this calculation until your veterinarian confirms that both the dose and the product are suitable for your dog.
Why the Correct Dose Is Not Settled
CBD products and clinical studies differ in several ways. A systematic review of canine osteoarthritis studies found doses ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/kg every 12 hours. The review found that CBD may reduce pain, but the evidence was very uncertain because the studies were small and had a high risk of bias. The studies also used different formulations, including isolated CBD, full-spectrum CBD and liposomal CBD.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine says that no standard therapeutic dose has been established. It also warns that product labels may not accurately show the actual cannabinoid concentration.
What to Check Before Giving CBD Oil
Speak With Your Veterinarian First
CBD can affect liver enzymes involved in medication processing. Your veterinarian should review your dog's health history and current treatments before recommending it.
This matters even more if your dog takes prescription pain medicine, seizure medication, steroids or another drug processed by the liver.
Do not stop or reduce a prescribed arthritis medication because you start CBD.
Use a Product With Verified Contents
Choose a product that:
- States the CBD concentration in mg/mL
- Provides a recent independent certificate of analysis
- Lists the amount of THC
- Contains no xylitol
- Is not a human gummy, edible or marijuana product
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved cannabis for use in animals. It also cannot ensure that commercial animal CBD products are safe or effective.
THC is toxic to dogs. It can cause lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, tremors, urinary incontinence and, in severe cases, seizures.
Ask Whether Blood Testing Is Appropriate
Some canine CBD studies reported increased alkaline phosphatase and other liver enzyme levels, even when the dogs showed no obvious symptoms. For an older dog or one taking long-term medication, your veterinarian may recommend bloodwork before and during treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Stop giving the product and contact your veterinarian if your dog develops:
- Excessive sleepiness
- Unsteadiness or difficulty walking
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Tremors
- Agitation
- Seizures
If your dog swallowed a product containing THC, xylitol or an unknown amount of CBD, contact a veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Xylitol can cause dangerously low blood sugar and liver injury in dogs.
Bottom Line
If your veterinarian approves CBD for your dog's arthritis, 2 mg/kg every 12 hours is the most commonly studied research amount. The right dose may be lower, or CBD may be unsuitable for your dog.
Have your veterinarian calculate the oil volume from a product with a verified mg/mL concentration. CBD should be one part of an arthritis plan that may also include weight management, controlled exercise, rehabilitation and proven pain treatment.