Arthritis and osteoarthritis are common joint conditions in dogs that lead to pain and movement restrictions. Many dog owners look for natural treatment options to help their pets. It is often claimed that CBD can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis and osteoarthritis.
This blog sheds light on what scientific research reveals about the effectiveness of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis, also known as arthrosis.
What is the difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis in dogs?
Although the terms arthritis and arthrosis are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to different conditions:
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints, often caused by an autoimmune reaction or infection. This is accompanied by swelling, pain and limited mobility.
- Osteoarthritis (arthrosis): A degenerative joint disorder in which cartilage breaks down (wear and tear) causing bone-on-bone contact. This leads to chronic pain and stiffness.
Why do so many dogs suffer from joint pain?
The following factors come into play:
- Age- Older dogs are more likely to suffer from joint wear.
- Breed and size- Large breeds, such as Labradors and German Shepherds, are at a higher risk.
- Excess weight- Extra body weight stresses joints and accelerates wear.
- Trauma or hereditary factors- Hip dysplasia or previous injuries can affect the joints.
Clinical research: The effects of CBD in dogs with arthritis
A recent randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effects of different doses of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis (1). The study was done on 20 large dogs (>20 kg) diagnosed with osteoarthritis by a veterinarian. The dogs were given one of the following products for 4 weeks:
- Placebo (coconut oil without CBD)
- 20mg CBD per day
- 50mg CBD per day
- 20mg water-soluble CBD per day
The dogs were assessed by both their owners and vets on certain movements such as: running, walking up or down, willingness to jump or play, getting up after sitting or lying down and pain intensity.
Pain intensity
There was a significant improvement in pain scores in dogs receiving CBD compared to placebo. Significant effects were seen at 50mg CBD per day and at 20mg water-soluble CBD per day, with 50mg CBD per day leading to the most improvement.
Movements
An improvement was also seen in the dogs' mobility. Dogs could walk and run more easily, as well as stand up more easily from a sitting or lying position. Again, 50mg CBD per day or 20mg water-soluble CBD per day provided the best results.
No serious side effects
The study reported no adverse reactions. Some dogs showed slight drowsiness in the first days of the study but over time these effects disappeared. Nor were any adverse liver values seen.
Dosage
The clinical study reviewed here found that 50mg per day works better than 20mg per day in larger dogs over 20 kilos. With water-soluble CBD, 20mg works just as well as 50mg of CBD. Other studies also suggest that higher doses provide better results (2, 3). In practice, for example, a dosage of 2mg per kilogram of body weight twice daily or 5mg per kilogram twice daily (4).
Conclusion
CBD offers a promising, natural approach to reduce pain and improve mobility in dogs with joint disorders. Research shows that higher doses can be more effective for joint problems and pain perception, and that CBD is generally well tolerated. Always consult a vet before giving CBD to your dog, especially if your dog is on other medication. While CBD is not a replacement for traditional treatments, it can be a valuable supplement for dogs with arthritis or osteoarthritis.
- Verrico CD, Wesson S, Konduri V, Hofferek CJ, Vazquez-Perez J, Blair E, Dunner K Jr, Salimpour P, Decker WK, Halpert MM. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of daily cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis pain. Pain. 2020 Sep 1;161(9):2191-2202. doi: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001896. PMID: 32345916; PMCID: PMC7584779.
- Gamble LJ, Boesch JM, Frye CW, Schwark WS, Mann S, Wolfe L, Brown H, Berthelsen ES, Wakshlag JJ. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018 Jul 23;5:165. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00165. PMID: 30083539; PMCID: PMC6065210.
- Soontornvipart, P. Wongsirichatchai, A. Phongphuwanan, K. Chatdarong, S. Vimolmangkang. Cannabidiol plus krill oil supplementation improves chronic stifle osteoarthritis in dogs: A double-blind randomized controlled trial, The Veterinary Journal, Volume 308, 2024, 106227,
- Bookout W, Dziwenka M, Valm K, Kovacs-Nolan J. Safety study of cannabidiol products in healthy dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2024 Mar 1;11:1349590. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1349590. PMID: 38496308; PMCID: PMC10940325.
