A CBD Guide for Dog and Cat Owners

As pet owners, we want nothing more than to see our furry family members healthy, happy, and pain-free, especially when we’re far from them during their boarding experience. Whether your dog is struggling with joint discomfort, your cat is pacing with anxiety, or your senior pet is slowing down with age, it’s natural to look for gentle and supportive ways to help. That’s where CBD for pets comes into the picture.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been growing in popularity over the past few years, not just for humans, but for pets too. Many pet parents are now turning to CBD as a natural option to support anxiety relief, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall quality of life for aging pets.

But how effective is it, really? Is it safe? And how do you choose the right product? We’ll walk you through the benefits, best uses, and trusted CBD products for both dogs and cats, so you can make a confident choice for your beloved companion.

What Is CBD and How Does It Work for Pets?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. Unlike THC (the compound in marijuana that gets you high), CBD doesn’t create a buzz—it works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in maintaining balance in the body.

Both humans and animals have an ECS. In pets, this system helps regulate:

  • Pain perception
  • Mood and stress levels
  • Immune response
  • Sleep cycles
  • Appetite
  • Inflammation

By influencing these systems, CBD may help pets feel more relaxed, experience less discomfort, and even regain some pep in their step as they age.

Common Reasons Pet Owners Use CBD

Here are three of the most common reasons pet parents turn to CBD:

1. Anxiety and Stress

Pets can experience anxiety just like we do—whether it’s triggered by loud noises (like fireworks), separation, new environments, or travel. CBD is widely reported to promote calmness in dogs and cats without sedating them.

If your pet is nervous during car rides (like the Stagecoach ride to or from Doggie Dude Ranch) or hates being left home alone, a calming CBD treat can take the edge off. We recommend LIX CBD Bites – 400mg for medium-sized dogs or LIX CBD Feline Formula – 250mg for cats who tend to get anxious during change.

2. Pain and Inflammation

Dogs and cats often hide pain well, but conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or injury-related inflammation can greatly affect their quality of life. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe aches and pains naturally, making it especially popular among senior pets.

For ongoing support, Earth Buddy’s CBD Infused Pumpkin Treats offer a tasty and effective way to ease discomfort in dogs of all ages.

3. Aging and Cognitive Decline

As our pets age, they may lose some mobility, experience confusion, or become more anxious. CBD may help support cognitive function and reduce some of the physical stiffness and anxiety that come with aging.

For large breeds that need extra support, try LIX CBD Large Breed Bites – 1600mg. For older cats, the feline-specific LIX CBD Feline Formula offers a great aging-support option.

How to Choose the Right CBD Product for Your Pet

Not all CBD products are created equal. When shopping for a quality product, here’s what to look for:

  • Full-spectrum or broad-spectrum hemp extract – These contain a range of cannabinoids and beneficial compounds for maximum effect.
  • Third-party lab testing – This ensures the product is pure, safe, and accurately labeled.
  • Formulated for pets – Avoid CBD products made for humans. Pet-specific formulas are safer and dosed correctly.
  • Organic and natural ingredients – Look for products without artificial fillers or preservatives.

Our affiliate partner, Dingo’s Natural Pet, proudly offers some of the best pet CBD products on the market—all of them vetted for safety, quality, and effectiveness. Whether you prefer oils or treats, they have a range of products tailored for dogs and cats of all sizes and life stages.

Some customer favorites include:

How to Give CBD to Pets

CBD comes in a few different forms: oils, treats, soft chews, and topical balms. The right form depends on your pet’s preferences and needs.

  • CBD Oils can be added to food or administered directly into the mouth for faster absorption. This is a good option for pets who need consistent, adjustable dosing.
  • CBD Treats are more convenient and palatable—perfect for picky eaters or on-the-go relief.
  • Topicals can be applied to sore joints or skin irritations, though these are less common for cats.

Be sure to follow the product’s dosing guidelines, and start small—observe how your pet reacts before gradually increasing the dose. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing CBD, especially if your pet is on other medications.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs and Cats?

CBD is considered very safe when used responsibly and in the correct dosage. Most pets tolerate it well, with minimal to no side effects. The most common side effect is drowsiness, especially when a higher dose is given.

Be cautious not to give products containing THC (even in small amounts) to pets. All of Dingo’s CBD products are THC-free and lab-tested for your peace of mind.

Supporting Pets Through Transitions, Travel, and Boarding

CBD can also be an incredible tool for helping pets manage stressful situations like:

  • Moving to a new home
  • Travel
  • Fireworks or thunderstorms
  • Vet visits
  • Boarding stays

If your pet is staying at a boarding facility like Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral, CBD may help ease the transition and reduce anxiety during their stay. Be sure to communicate with the boarding staff and bring any necessary instructions for administering CBD while you’re away.

CBD and Boarding: A Calmer Stay at Doggie Dude Ranch & the O’Cat Corral

For some pets, staying at a boarding facility—even one as fun and caring as Doggie Dude Ranch and the O’Cat Corral—can cause a bit of stress. New sounds, smells, and routines can trigger anxiety in even the most social pups and kitties. CBD can be a great tool to help ease that transition. Whether it’s your dog’s first time boarding or your cat tends to get nervous away from home, giving them a calming CBD treat or oil before drop-off can support a more relaxed experience. Products like LIX CBD Bites – 400mg for dogs or LIX CBD Feline Formula – 250mg for cats are gentle, easy to use, and ideal for helping pets settle into their temporary home-away-from-home. Just be sure to let our staff know about your pet’s CBD routine when you check in!

Is CBD Right for Your Pet?

Every pet is unique, but many owners report noticeable improvements in anxiety, mobility, and mood in their pets after introducing CBD. Whether you’re exploring options for pain relief, senior support, or occasional calming, CBD may be worth considering as part of your pet’s wellness routine.

And when it comes to sourcing safe, reliable, pet-friendly CBD, Dingo’s Natural Pet has you covered. Their curated selection of trusted CBD products includes everything from treats to oils and formulas for specific needs, all designed to help your furry friend thrive.

If you have questions about choosing the right CBD pet product, stop by Dingo’s or reach out online. Their team is always happy to help you find the perfect fit for your four-legged family member.

Want to give CBD a try? Explore their full line of CBD for dogs and cats here.