Most people have heard of CBD for pets. But CBG is gaining attention among dog owners looking for natural ways to help their dogs feel their best.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics, from the benefits of CBG to how to use it safely with your pup, so you can decide if it’s the right fit.
What Is CBG?
CBG, short for cannabigerol, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant and is known as the “mother of all cannabinoids.” As the plant matures, compounds like CBD and THC form from CBG.
Unlike THC, CBG is non-intoxicating, so it won’t make your dog feel “high.” Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) – the network that helps regulate mood, mobility, appetite, and immune response.
Think of the ECS as your dog’s internal regulators and CBG as a way to help keep that system in check.
Benefits of CBG for Dogs
CBG is still pretty new in the pet space, so much of what we know about its benefits for dogs comes from studies on CBD and the early CBG research.
Calm and Emotional Balance
From fireworks to vet visits, plenty of situations can stress out a dog. CBG hasn’t been studied for this in pets yet, but early research indicates it may help your dog stay calmer, much like CBD, which has already been tested in dogs [1] [2].
Joint and Mobility Support
Older dogs can have trouble with stairs, long walks, or even hopping on the couch. Early findings point to CBG’s potential to ease that strain. CBD has been tested in dogs with arthritis [3] [4].
Digestive and Immune Health
A healthy gut and strong immune system help dogs feel their best. Early findings suggest CBG may help soothe the gut [5]. CBD has also been studied for immune support in animals [6].
Brain and Nerve Support
As dogs age, staying mentally sharp matters just as much as keeping their bodies moving. While not studied directly in dogs, early animal research shows that both CBG and CBD may help protect brain cells and support healthy brain function [7].
Is CBG Safe for Dogs?
When used responsibly, lab-tested CBG products made for pets can be a safe addition to your furry friend’s routine.
Because hemp-derived CBG is non-intoxicating, it won’t make your dog feel “high.” Early studies and real-world use suggest it’s generally well tolerated when given in sensible amounts.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Legality: Hemp-derived CBG (containing less than 0.3% THC) is federally legal in the U.S., but state rules can vary.
- Side Effects: While uncommon, some dogs may experience mild effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite.
- Vet Guidance: Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your dog is on medication or has health issues.
CBG Dosage for Dogs
Finding the right CBG dose for your dog isn’t an exact science, but factors like size, age, and overall health all play a role.
The best approach is to start low and adjust slowly while keeping an eye on how your pup responds.
A good rule of thumb is about 2 mg of CBG for every 10 pounds of body weight.
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ~2–4 mg
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): ~4–10 mg
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 10+ mg, depending on size
Stick with one serving per day for the first several days. Give them the dosage at the same time each day, like with breakfast or before bed, to help track how your dog responds.
If you notice positive changes but feel your pup could use a little more support, you can gradually increase to twice daily servings.
How to Use CBG for Dogs
Once you’ve figured out the right amount, the next step is deciding how to give CBG to your dog.
Some owners use CBG ahead of stressful events, like when traveling or boarding at a kennel, while others make it part of their dog’s daily wellness routine.
The best option usually comes down to what your pup will tolerate and enjoy most.
Oils
Oils give you the most control because you can measure the exact amount. While sme dogs will take it right from the dropper, most prefer it drizzled over food, or hidden in a favorite treat like peanut butter or pumpkin puree.
Treats
If you’d rather skip the measuring, CBG-infused treats are the easiest option. They’re pre-dosed, dog-approved, and work well for pet parents who are always on the go. The only downside is that you have less control over adjusting the amount.
How to Choose the Best CBG for Dogs
Not all hemp products are created equal, and the last thing you want is to give your pup something that isn’t safe or effective. Reading the label carefully can make all the difference. Here’s what to look for:
Pet-Specific Formulas
Avoid products made for humans, which can contain flavorings, carrier oils, or additives that aren’t safe for dogs. Pet-specific products are made with your dog’s needs in mind.
Third-Party Lab Reports
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab confirms what’s in the bottle. It should show the cannabinoids, THC level (less than 0.3%), and that the product is free from contaminants. If a company doesn’t make lab reports easy to find, that’s a red flag.
Full-Spectrum Hemp
Full-spectrum products contain a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, which may work together for a stronger effect known as the entourage effect. For many dogs, this blend offers more well-rounded support than isolates.
Transparency and Reputation
Choose brands that are clear about where they source their hemp and how it’s processed. Companies that use natural ingredients, share lab results, and have a proven track record are usually the ones you can trust.
What’s the Difference Between CBD and CBG?
CBD and CBG are both non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in hemp, but they work a little differently in the body.
- CBD: The most well-known cannabinoid in hemp. Many pet owners turn to CBD for everyday balance and calm.
- CBG: Less abundant in the plant. It’s being studied for things like mood, mobility, and gut health
For many dogs, the best results come from combining the two, which is why you’ll often see full-spectrum products that include both.
Why Full-Spectrum Hemp Works Better
Because of the entourage effect, cannabinoids and terpenes may work better together than they do on their own.
For dogs, that often means combining CBG with CBD and other naturally occurring compounds in hemp.
CBG on its own may support mood, mobility, or digestion, but pairing it with CBD, and even small amounts of CBN or CBC, could provide even more balanced support.
That’s why full-spectrum hemp products are so popular in the pet world.
Conclusion: CBG for Dogs
From easing stress to helping with mobility, CBG shows promise for dogs of all ages.
The key is to start small, be consistent, and pay attention to how your pup responds.
Choosing a trusted, lab-tested formulla made for pets will give you the best peace of mind as you add CBG to your dog’s routine.
If you’re ready to try CBG for your pup, explore our lab-tested pet oils and treats that are made with hemp you can trust.
CBG for Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few quick answers to common questions about CBG for dogs.
How Much CBG Can I Give My Dog?
Start small and base it on your dog’s weight. About 1–2 mg works for small dogs, 3–5 mg for medium dogs, and 5–8 mg for large dogs. Adjust slowly while watching how your dog responds.
Does CBG Give Dogs a High?
No. CBG is non-intoxicating and won’t make your dog feel “high.”
Is CBG Stronger Than CBD?
Not stronger, just different. CBG interacts with different receptors that may support mood, mobility, or digestion in unique ways.
Is CBG Hard on Dogs’ Liver?
So far, research suggests CBG is generally well tolerated. As with any supplement, it’s best to consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog takes other medications.
Sources
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[2] Hannah E Flint, Alysia B G Hunt, Darren W Logan, Tammie King, Daily dosing of cannabidiol (CBD) demonstrates a positive effect on measures of stress in dogs during repeated exposure to car travel, Journal of Animal Science, Volume 102, 2024, skad414, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skad414
[3] Karuppagounder V, Chung J, Abdeen A, Thompson A, Bouboukas A, Pinamont WJ, Yoshioka NK, Sepulveda DE, Raup-Konsavage WM, Graziane NM, Vrana KE, Elbarbary RA, Kamal F (2023) Therapeutic effects of non-euphorigenic cannabis extracts in osteoarthritis, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research 8:6, 1030–1044, DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0244.
[4] 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.
[5] Francesca Borrelli, Ines Fasolino, Barbara Romano, Raffaele Capasso, Francesco Maiello, Diana Coppola, Pierangelo Orlando, Giovanni Battista, Ester Pagano, Vincenzo Di Marzo, Angelo A. Izzo, Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease, Biochemical Pharmacology, Volume 85, Issue 9, 2013, Pages 1306-1316, ISSN 0006-2952, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017.
[6] Gugliandolo, E., Licata, P., Peritore, A. F., Siracusa, R., D’Amico, R., Cordaro, M., Fusco, R., Impellizzeri, D., Di Paola, R., Cuzzocrea, S., Crupi, R., & Interlandi, C. D. (2021). Effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Canine Inflammatory Response: An Ex Vivo Study on LPS Stimulated Whole Blood. Veterinary Sciences, 8(9), 185. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci8090185
[7] di Giacomo, V., Chiavaroli, A., Recinella, L., Orlando, G., Cataldi, A., Rapino, M., Di Valerio, V., Ronci, M., Leone, S., Brunetti, L., Menghini, L., Zengin, G., Ak, G., Abdallah, H. H., & Ferrante, C. (2020). Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects Induced by Cannabidiol and Cannabigerol in Rat CTX-TNA2 Astrocytes and Isolated Cortexes. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(10), 3575. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21103575
