Key Takeaways
- Dogs cannot technically overdose on CBD oil, however, when consumed in high amounts, your dog can experience side effect like drowsiness, diarrhea, vomiting, and low blood pressure.
- Too much canine CBD is not toxic to dogs. Human CBD that contains THC, on the other hand, can be potentially life-threatening to dogs.
- If your dog consumes high doses of CBD, give him plenty of water, monitor for other signs, and let it sleep. In severe cases, see the help of your vet.
I like using CBD oils to help my calm my dogs in certain situations. If you’re interest to use it for your pup, you’re probably asking, can a dog overdose on CBD oil? In the traditional sense, dogs can’t overdose on CBD Oil. However, if your pup gets a high dosage of CBD, there could be negative side effects. CBD doesn’t interact with the receptors in a dog’s brain and doesn’t cause respiratory problems. If your pup got a higher than normal dose of CBD, it will likely result in a long nap. A dog’s system can only handle a specific amount of CBD; the remainder is a waste.
A World Health Organization study in 2018 came to these conclusions. Large doses of CBD in humans and animals may cause diarrhea, extreme drowsiness, lethargy, and stomach upsets. This is why I make sure to get the right kind of dog CBD oil. Unless the CBD dosage is in excess of 30 mg for each kg of dog’s weight, there are no significant side effects. In 2019 a study on Cannabinoid treats for pets indicated the safety allowance is appropriate when the treats are given orally. Based on the studies and information that’s available, pet owners can assume overdoses are theoretically possible but rarely occur. See our full review of the best CBD dog treats.
Differences Between An Overdose and Toxicity
An overdose occurs when a human or animal gets an excessive amount of a safe substance. Toxicity occurs when a substance that’s not safe is given to a dog, even in a minimal amount. Pet parents need to know that dogs can overdose on CBD. THC toxicity is potentially life-threatening. THC is the substance in the marijuana plant that causes changes in the mental state.
When a dog gets too much of a medication, a natural substance, or a supplement, the dog’s system can’t metabolize the substance quickly and it causes an overdose. Side effects may occur. Toxicity differs from an overdose. A toxic substance can poison a dog. A lethal drug or other substance has no beneficial effects for a dog and is dangerous. Substances that are poisonous to dogs include any marijuana products, plants, wild mushrooms, and medications intended for humans.
It’s vital for pet parents to only buy the best CBD oil for dogs that are derived from hemp. CBD that’s derived from hemp contains trace amounts of THC. To ensure you’re buying hemp derived CBD products that are safe for your dog you should only buy products with no more than 0.3 percent THC. Pets should never be exposed to any form of marijuana. Consider our list of the best organic CBD oil for dogs.
Can Dogs Get An Excessive Amount Of CBD Oil?
It’s possible to give your dog more of the oil than is recommended. However, if you misread the directions on the bottle, giving a dose higher than the recommended amount won’t be dangerous. A full dropper usually results in a long naptime for your pup. Your dog needs time to sleep off the adverse effects of CBD oils. It’s unlikely for a dog to suffer serious side effects from CBD. The safety of CBD and the potential health benefits outweigh the risks. Always follow the directions on the bottle to know how much CBD to give your pup.
Can CBD Kill Dogs?
Hemp CBD Oil won’t kill a dog. However, it depends on the cannabis plant. What dog parents need to know is pet CBD products contain THC. However, only 0.3 percent THC or less is an ingredient in supplements and treats for dogs. Even though THC is toxic, a dog would have to consume an enormous amount of a CBD product for toxicity to occur.
The ASPCA Poison Control Hotline and companies that produce CBD products frequently get calls from distressed dog owners after giving their dogs marijuana edibles like brownies and chocolates, and human-grade marijuana for recreational and medical use [1]. Dogs should never be fed any of these products.
Symptoms of toxicity in dogs include:
- Anxiety
- Ataxia
- Dilated pupils
- Extreme lethargy
- Sensitivity to light and loud noises
- Slow heart rate
- Urinary incontinence
- Vomiting
Emergency dog CBD overdoses with toxicity symptoms must be treated by a veterinarian immediately. Depending on the severity a dog could die from consuming a toxic substance. Equally dangerous to dogs are CBD treats and snacks for humans that contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener. Even small amounts of xylitol aren’t safe for dogs. The bottom line is CBD extracts from hemp plants won’t kill a dog. CBD from a marijuana plant will kill a dog.
What’s The Effect On A Dog Of Too Much CBD?
To understand the safety and side effects of too much CBD Oil, pet parents must understand how it works. If a dog gets too much CBD, the pup will get sleepy, a result of lowered blood pressure. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system. The ECS regulates functions like appetite, body temperature, inflammation, memory, mood, and sleep. When a dog gets too much CBD the excess amount will flush out of the system. It’s a good idea to give your pup some water and let it sleep until the effects wear off.
Indications Your Dog Has Had Too Much CBD
When your dog has had too much CBD, the first indication is drowsiness. Some dogs may lack in appetite and develop diarrhea or vomiting. Higher doses of CBD Oil with cannabis pose potential risks including diarrhea, dry mouth, lethargy, liver enzyme changes, and low blood pressure.
Treating CBD Overdoses in Dogs
Hemp CBD overdoses in dogs usually don’t require any treatment. You should keep an eye on your pup, make sure plenty of water is available, and let it sleep the effects off. THC toxicity is different and potentially life-threatening. A veterinarian may treat a milder case as an outpatient. Severe cases may require hospitalization to stabilize, supportive care, and plenty of love.
When To Go To the Vet
If your dog is more sleepy than usual after taking CBD Oil it’s a good idea to consult your vet. If increased sleepiness interferes with daily activity, you should talk to your vet about decreasing your pup’s dose of CBD Oil.
When CBD Overdose Is An Emergency
An overdose of CBD Oil in a dog is an emergency when THC ingestion is involved. THC is an ingredient in human CBD products and marijuana, which dogs should never be given. If your dog ingests THC, call the ASPCA pet poison helpline asap and get your dog to the vet.
Related article: How to Give CBD oil to Dogs
FAQs
1. Can I give my dog too much CBD oil?
A dog can be given too much CBD Oil. For example, a pet parent may give their dog one dropper instead of half a dropper. If a dog has CBD oil overdose, the symptoms will be excessive sleepiness. It’s best to give your dog plenty of water and let it sleep until the effects of the CBD wear off.
2. What’s the recommended dosage of CBD for dogs?
Dogs should be given 2 mg of CBD Oil for every 10 pounds of weight. CBD Oil can be divided into 2 daily doses, 4 to 8 hours apart. Be consistent while you evaluate the effect on your pup.
3. Can CBD overdose, kill, or harm my dog?
Canine CBD overdoses won’t kill a dog. Human CBD that contains THC should never be given to dogs. THC can kill a pet.
4. Is CBD addictive to dogs?
Medical studies on canine CBD indicate it’s not addictive. However, pet parents should exercise caution until they know the effects on their dog.
