CBD for Hyper Dogs: What You Need to Know

Can CBD calm a hyper dog? Don’t trust CBD marketers to tell you the truth. We’ve got the hard evidence below.

Pet parents whose furballs have a serious case of the zoomies have found a new friend in CBD. Thousands of reviews and testimonials claim that a small dose of CBD takes the edge of their dogs’ hyperactivity.

hyper black and white Border Collie puppy

From the outside, this is a dream come true for dog owners. Their pets seem more content, relaxed, and obedient. Plus, squirrels everywhere are rejoicing that the Terrier on Maple St. isn’t rampaging from yard to yard in pursuit of anything with a bushy tail.

But what is actually going on when you give CBD to a dog? Is it really “evening them out” and improving their mood, or is sedating them and affecting their quality of life?

The science isn’t clear yet, but we have information from veterinarians and a few studies on CBD and dogs to help paint a clearer picture.

In this article, we’re going to share with you the science on using CBD to treat hyperactivity in dogs. We’ll tell you how it affects dogs and whether you should consider it as an option for your best friend.

A Quick Intro to CBD for Dogs

In this section, we’ll cover some basic info on CBD for dogs. If you’re already familiar with CBD, skip to the next section on “CBD for Hyper Dogs.” For a more comprehensive introduction to CBD for dogs, check out our guide to CBD for pets.

What is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol, a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. CBD has been growing in popularity over the last decade for its therapeutic uses, such as relieving pain, anxiety, inflammation, insomnia, epilepsy, and other conditions. It’s 100% natural and has no serious side effects, making ita a popular alternative to many pharmaceutical drugs.

Unlike its cousin THC, CBD is non-psychoactive. This means it will not get you (or your pet) “high.”

Although more research is necessary, CBD is considered to be safe for use in humans and animals. It has been the subject of hundreds of studies over the last few decades and has even been approved by the FDA to treat certain medical conditions.

For more info on CBD and its benefits, read our introductory guide to CBD.

Why Give CBD to Dogs?

We don’t often give our pets the same food we eat, let alone the same treatments for medical issues. So, why do people give CBD to their dogs?

There are two reasons.

The first is that based on observation alone, CBD seems to work. Giving CBD to dogs with certain conditions appears to improve their quality of life.

Initially, people treated epileptic dogs with CBD and noticed a drastic reduction in the number of seizures they suffered.

Soon after, pet owners started adding CBD oil to their dogs’ food and water to relieve arthritis, inflammation, pain, anxiety, and hyperactivity. The testimonials of these dog owners were overwhelmingly positive. A survey even found that most pet owners support giving CBD to pets. All of the positive anecdotal evidence caused the trend to grow quickly.
The second reason is a scientific one. Dogs and humans both share a body system called the endocannabinoid system. This system runs throughout the body and is made up of receptors that bind to cannabinoids. Some of these cannabinoids are produced naturally by our bodies. Others are found in nature, namely in the cannabis plant.

CBD is a cannabinoid that interacts with this body system, and when it does so, it helps to regulate a number of body processes that affect mood, hormones, the body’s internal clock, and a lot more (much of which is still unknown or currently being studied).

There’s reason to believe that because both dogs and humans have an endocannabinoid system, both will experience similar benefits from cannabinoid-based supplements like CBD oil and CBD treats.

In fact, CBD products marketed to animals are often identical to the products sold to humans, just with a different label and dosage recommendation.

CBD for Hyper Dogs: How it Works

How can CBD help your dog take a breather and finally enjoy that $300 dog bed you bought last Chrismas?

Pet owners are adamant that CBD works on hyper dogs. Scientists aren’t 100% sure how it works yet, but they have a good idea based on studies done on humans and other animals.

First, they had to define the cause of hyperkinetic behavior in dogs.

Researchers observed that hyperactive dogs displayed many of the same symptoms as dogs suffering from anxiety. The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that these symptoms include:

Restlessness
Aggression
Excessive barking
Pacing
Destructive behavior

This has led many to believe that hyperactive dogs are suffering from anxiety or something similar to it.

One of CBD’s most studied benefits is its anxiolytic effect (anti-anxiety). Not only has this been documented in human studies but it has been observed in numerous animal studies as well. Although no CBD studies have been conducted specifically on dogs with anxiety, it was safe to assume that CBD may have a calming effect on restless pups.

When administered to dogs, CBD seems to have an almost instantaneous relaxing effect. We don’t know all of the reasons for this effect yet, but scientists have confirmed a few important points:

CBD modulates GABA receptors to reduce anxiety and restlessness: GABA is a neurotransmitter responsible for keeping your mind and body level. When it’s underactive, you feel jittery and find it difficult to concentrate. When it’s working normally, you feel calm and collected. CBD helps to regulate GABA activity in humans, and it is likely that it does the same for dogs.
CBD binds with Serotonin receptors to improve mood: Serotonin is a hormone that helps to regulate mood, sleep, and anxiety levels in humans and dogs. Animal studies showed that CBD has an anti-anxiety and anti-depression effect, and it improved focus in most subjects. This is likely why hyperactive dogs can become more obedient when taking CBD. They are able to focus on the commands of their owners.
The effects of CBD are similar to those of anti-anxiety medications: In human studies, scientists have concluded that even if they don’t fully understand the way that CBD works, the physical effect it has on the body is nearly identical to that of anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals, albeit without the side effects. Much of the anti-anxiety medication vets give to dogs is identical or nearly identical to the medication given to humans, so the anxiolytic response to CBD could be similar in dogs.
The endocannabinoid system also plays a part in the calming effect of CBD: GABA and serotonin aren’t the only anti-hyperactive receptors responsible for CBD’s calming effect. The endocannabinoid system’s receptors CB1 and CB2 also play a role. Because dogs and humans share this system, it is believed that they experience similar benefits from CBD.
Dogs have more of the endocannabinoid receptor CB1 than humans: A recent mapping of endocannabinoid receptors in human and canine nervous systems revealed that dogs have far more CB1 receptors in their brains than humans do. This further suggests that dogs can experience the anti-hyperkinetic effects of cannabinoids like CBD.

While all of the pieces are not yet in place to provide a clear picture of how CBD affects hyper dogs, scientists are able to say with a good deal of certainty how CBD interacts with canine bodies and why it has a calming effect.

But without all of the information, is it really safe to give your dog CBD?

Is CBD Safe for Hyper Dogs?

Yes, it is safe to give your hyper dog CBD. Dog owners have been giving their pets CBD for years, and there has been no evidence of serious side effects or negative long-term consequences.

And, more studies are released every year that confirm the health benefits of CBD for dogs.

It’s not just pet owners who are enthusiastic about giving CBD to their dogs. A survey found that nearly half of veterinarians have recommended or prescribed CBD to their animal patients.

Veterinarians are especially enthusiastic about treating hyperkinetic dogs with CBD because many of the common pharmaceutical medications for anxious and overactive dogs can be pretty tough on the canine body.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) considers many of these conventional drugs to be unsafe for dogs, as they have life-threatening side effects in some cases. Yet, they are still prescribed all over the country.

Side Effects of CBD for Hyper Dogs

CBD has shown no evidence of serious side effects in studies or anecdotal testimony.

But, this doesn’t mean you can feed your good boy CBD like snausages on his birthday.

CBD is still a supplement that must be administered with care. And it’s not without its side effects. While these side effects aren’t serious, they can make your dog uncomfortable and irritable, which would defeat the purpose of giving your hyper dog CBD.

Side effects include:

Low blood pressure
Dry mouth
Fatigue
Diarrhea

Side effects can usually be eliminated by lowering the CBD dosage. Though, some dogs might be more sensitive to CBD than others. If your dog seems moody or irritable after taking CBD, it might be best to find a different treatment.

To ensure your dog’s safety when supplementing with CBD, you MUST remember to do the following:

Follow the dosage recommendations: There are no serious side effects of CBD for dogs even when they’re given too much of it. But, they will probably feel uncomfortable.
Use CBD products made for dogs: Using CBD products made for animals is a good way to guarantee an appropriate dosage and safe levels of cannabinoids.
NEVER give your dog products containing THC: THC is toxic to dogs. Some CBD products, especially those sold in states where marijuana is legal, contain levels of THC that are unsafe for dogs. Check your CBD brand’s independent lab results to confirm the concentration of THC in your product. Or, just buy a CBD product made for pets.
Consult your veterinarian before starting: Always consult with your vet before giving your dog any new supplement or medication.

Is CBD Right for Your Hyperactive Dog?

Giving CBD to hyper dogs seems like a pretty good idea, right?

But your dog is a different story.

Is it worth the risks? Will he/she really benefit from CBD? And is it with the cost? (CBD isn’t cheap!)

We’ll help you answer each question and then walk you through the process of starting your hyper dog on CBD.

Is it worth the risk?

CBD for dogs has been around for years, and many studies have been conducted on CBD and how it interacts with dogs’ and other animals’ bodies.

After all of that, there is no evidence indicating that CBD is harmful to dogs.

The worst thing that can happen to them is an upset stomach or a bit of uncomfortable drowsiness.

You might feel a bit apprehensive because your pup isn’t like the others (they’re extra special!).

But you can rest assured that CBD will not pose any serious risk to your best friend.

Will Your Dog Really Benefit From CBD?

It depends on your dog’s level of hyperactivity. Before giving your hyper dog CBD, you should observe their behavior for a few weeks to define their symptoms with certainty. This will help you determine if your dog really needs an anxiety-reducing supplement like CBD.

For example, you might think your dog is hyperkinetic, but when you actually observe her behavior, you realize that she’s only hyper for about an hour after you get home from work.

If your dog isn’t really hyperactive, then you probably won’t notice much of a difference when giving them CBD. It would be a bit like taking a painkiller when you don’t have a headache.

Your dog should display multiple symptoms of hyperkinesis before you start to supplement for the condition. Symptoms include:

Aggressive behavior
Excessive barking
Pacing
Lack of focus/obedience
Restlessness
Destructive behavior

These symptoms should also be exhibited long-term and throughout the day.

If your dog regularly displays two or more of these symptoms, then CBD might be a good option.

But, even dogs with these symptoms might not benefit from CBD. If you fit into one of the following categories, then CBD might not work for your pet:

You don’t spend much time with your dog: Dogs need a lot of love and socialization. CBD won’t stop your dog from craving your attention and acting out in frustration over not getting enough of it.
Your dog doesn’t get enough physical activity: Restless dogs are often starved for a good run. This is especially common in big dogs who live in small apartments. CBD won’t keep your dog from wanting his fair share of exercise.
Your dog wasn’t trained as a puppy: Untrained or poorly trained dogs are disobedient, aggressive, and destructive—all symptoms of hyperactive dogs. But CBD cannot turn a poorly trained dog into an obedient one.

If you don’t fit into any of the above categories and you’ve exhausted your options trying to get your dog to chill out, then it’s time to talk to your vet about CBD.

Is it Worth the Money?

This depends on your budget and your dog.

Some dogs respond very well to CBD, and their owners never look back. Other dogs don’t have a strong response (or, they’re owners don’t notice a difference in behavior).

Every dog is different, and CBD will respond differently to every dog.

If yours doesn’t seem to benefit from it, then it’s probably not worth the $50-$100 a month in CBD costs.

If your dog responds well to CBD but your wallet doesn’t, then you can always keep an emergency supply for special occasions, like when guests come over.

There are also some other, cheaper natural remedies to hyperactivity that work for some owners, including:

Chamomile
Valerian
Lemon Balm
Oat
Skullcap

These remedies might not be as effective as CBD, but if you’re looking to save some cash, they’re worth trying out.

What’s the Right CBD Dosage for a Hyper Dog?

The proper CBD dosage for your dog, according to the Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (JAHVMA), is about 2-2.5 mg per kilo of body weight.

That works about to about 1 mg of CBD per pound of body weight.

If you buy edible CBD treats for your dog, you should be able to dose pretty accurately by breaking the treat into pieces. Each treat will contain a specific amount of CBD as indicated on the packaging.

If you dose with CBD oil, you can use the following table to help you determine the right dosage for your dog.

Weight (lbs)	Drops of CBD Oil (500 mg bottle)
5-10	1-2
10-20	3-4
20-40	4-8
40-60	8-12
60-80	12-16
80-110	16-22

When using the table above, remember to check the concentration of your bottle of CBD oil before determining the dosage for your dog. The table recommends a dosage based on a 30 ml bottle of oil containing 500 mg of CBD. Your CBD oil may be more or less concentrated, so you may need to adjust the dosage.

Monitoring Your Dog When Taking CBD

Once you’ve started supplementing your dog’s diet with CBD, be sure to keep a close eye on your pup. Here’s what you want to look for:

New behaviors: Is your dog acting differently? Maybe he sleeps more soundly when taking CBD. Or maybe he doesn’t pull so much on his leash. Take note of any new behaviors before deciding if they’re positive or negative. This will help you form an unbiased assessment of CBD’s effect on your dog.
Positive changes: Now, look at those behaviors and determine which are positive results. Are they positive for you, your dog, or both of you? Are they the result of CBD or could they have another cause? Write down the things that have improved for both of you.
Side effects: Take note of any side effects or negative changes in your dog’s behavior. Adjust the CBD dose to help alleviate side effects. If they persist, try changing to a different CBD brand. Or, talk to your vet.

Once you’ve found the right CBD dosage for you and your dog, your work is done! CBD has shown no signs of being dependency-forming in animals or humans, nor does it cause a tolerance to build up. So, you should be able to give your dog the same dose of CBD and expect the same result for years to come*.

*If your dog’s health or weight changes over time, you may need to adjust its CBD dose.

A Calmer Dog and A Happier Home

Having a hyperactive dog can cause disharmony and dysfunction at home. It’s a bit like having an angsty teenager, but instead of talking back, he chews the upholstery off the new sofa.

But hyperkinesis in dogs isn’t just a phase.

If your dog is hyperactive, it probably isn’t just “his personality.” Your dog might be suffering from a form of anxiety. There’s no reason for you both to live like that.

CBD can help your dog balance his mood and jitters. And as a result, it can bring more peace and happiness to your daily routine.

CBD is considered to be safe and effective for hyper dogs by pet owners, veterinarians, and researchers.

CBD has no serious side effects and no risk of dependency, unlike pharmaceutical medications that are commonly prescribed to dogs. Pure hemp-based CBD is 100% natural and contains no synthetic materials.

If you’re looking for a low-risk option to help your hyper dog enjoy more mental and physical stability, try a CBD brand for pets today.

Looking for some high-quality, safe, and effective CBD products for dogs? We’ve tested dozens of brands and done a deep-dive into their manufacturing processes to bring you our top pics of CBD for dogs. Find the complete list here. (To be Updated)