Can a Dog Overdose on CBD Oil? Vet-Reviewed Signs & Precautions

CBD oil is used by some dog owners for several potential health benefits, although research on its effectiveness, safety, and potential benefits is still ongoing. While there’s yet to be any definitive research on the exact effects of CBD oil on dogs, many people use it for its potential anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which can help with issues like joint pain and anxiety.

Fortunately, serious CBD toxicity appears to be uncommon in dogs, but consuming too much CBD can still cause adverse effects and may require veterinary care. However, it doesn’t mean that you should give your dog more than the recommended daily dosage. Dogs can still get sick from consuming too much CBD oil.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is composed of a compound called cannabidiol. Cannabidiol can be found in cannabis or hemp. CBD oil contains very little, a trace amount, or no THC, which is the compound responsible for psychoactive effects. In fact, most products containing CBD oil use CBD derived from hemp.

Signs Your Dog Has Had Too Much CBD Oil

While CBD is not considered psychoactive like THC, dogs can still experience adverse effects if they consume too much CBD oil. However, it can still cause an upset stomach if a dog takes too much of it. So, your dog may experience vomiting or diarrhea.

Your dog may also become drowsy and lethargic if it has too much CBD oil. In some cases, dogs that consume too much CBD may appear disoriented or temporarily uncoordinated. Taking too much CBD oil may also cause increased thirst in some dogs.

If a dog consumes a CBD product that contains THC, it may show signs of cannabis toxicity. Common signs may include lethargy, excessive sleepiness, disorientation, stumbling or loss of coordination, dilated pupils, drooling, urinary incontinence, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to sounds or movement. In more severe cases, dogs may experience tremors, low body temperature, slowed heart rate, or seizures. If you suspect your dog has consumed a product containing THC, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and treatment recommendations.

What to Do If Your Dog Gets Sick from CBD Oil

In many mild cases, signs will improve as the CBD oil passes through your dog’s system, but it’s important to monitor your dog closely. Make sure to leave out plenty of water for your dog to drink.

If your dog has an upset stomach, contact your veterinarian for feeding recommendations, as the best approach depends on your dog’s age, health, and signs. Some may be managed at home by giving bland, easily digestible food, like boiled chicken with white rice or pumpkin, while others may need to see the vet. As your dog recovers, you can incorporate its regular food back into its diet incrementally.

It’s also helpful to contact your veterinarian for further care advice. Your veterinarian can provide information on making your dog as comfortable as possible and providing symptomatic treatment if required until the signs subside. If your dog’s upset stomach doesn’t get better within 24 hours, make sure to call your veterinarian for further instructions.

If you choose to give your dog CBD oil, it is best to use a pet-specific product and consult your veterinarian first. Most CBD products made for dogs are hemp-derived and contain little to no THC, though regulations vary by location. This can help reduce the risk of THC exposure and other adverse effects, but it does not eliminate all risks associated with CBD use.

If your dog eats CBD oil for humans or any other cannabis products, make sure to contact your veterinarian right away for treatment. If you can, make sure to gather information on how much product your dog has eaten and at what time. This information will be helpful for your veterinarian.

Conclusion

In general, CBD oil formulated for dogs is considered relatively safe, and many dogs that consume too much experience only mild to moderate signs. So, if your dog ingests more than the recommended amount of CBD oil, provide a comfortable space, ensure access to fresh water, monitor it closely, and contact your veterinarian for guidance. 

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog develops severe signs or if you suspect the product contained THC or other potentially harmful ingredients.

Related Read:

• How Long Does CBD Oil Stay in a Dog’s System? Vet-Reviewed Benefits, Risks & More

• 4 Corners Cannabis Pet CBD Tincture Review: An Expert’s Breakdown

Featured Image Credit: Vane Nunes, Shutterstock