If you’ve looked up CBD dosage for dogs, you’ve probably seen a lot of conflicting advice.
A good baseline that works for most dogs is 2mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight.
Every dog responds differently, so it’s important to start low and adjust slowly.
This guide shows you exactly how to calculate your dog’s dose and how to adapt it based on their needs.
Need an easy way to calculate your dog’s CBD dosage? Use the calculator below:
- In the top field, enter your dog's body weight in pounds (lbs.)
- In the bottom field, select your dog's CBD dosage strength based on their condition or use
- Click the calculate button to determine your dog's daily CBD dosage
CBD Dosage Chart for Dogs
CBD Dosage for Dogs in mL: How to Read Your CBD Oil Bottle
Measuring CBD oil can feel confusing at first, but it gets simple once you know how many milligrams (mg) are in each milliliter (mL) of your bottle.
Most pet CBD oils use a 1 mL dropper, so one full dropper equals one full mL.
Here’s how much CBD you get per full dropper based on common bottle strengths:
| Bottle Strength | CBD per 1 mL Dropper |
| 100 mg | ~3.3 mg |
| 250 mg | ~8.3 mg |
| 500 mg | ~16.7 mg |
| 1000 mg | ~33.3 mg |
| 1500 mg | ~50 mg |
| 3000 mg | ~100 mg |
| 5000 mg | ~166.6 mg |
Example:
If your dog needs 10 mg per day and you’re using a 1000 mg oil, you’d give about ⅓ of a dropper or 0.33mL of CBD oil.
Quick note on drops:
Most 1 mL droppers hold around 20 drops, which means a standard 30 mL bottle has roughly 600 drops total.
If you prefer counting drops instead of measuring mL, this gives you a close-enough estimate without needing exact lab precision.
CBD Dosage for Treats and Chews
Treats and chews list a set CBD amount per piece, so dosing is simple. Use this formula to find your dog’s starting dose:
0.2 mg of CBD × your dog’s body weight (lbs.) = daily amount
Match that number to the mg-per-treat on the label. Break soft chews into halves or quarters to get as close as possible to your dog’s ideal dose.
Example:
If a treat has 10 mg of CBD and your 20-lb dog needs 4 mg, give about one-third to one-half of a treat.
How to Dose CBD for Your Dog: 3 Simple Steps
Here’s a quick overview of how to dose CBD safely and effectively:
1. Start with a weight-based amount
Use the calculator or chart above to find your dog’s starting dose.
Body weight is the biggest factor, but your dog’s needs – whether that’s everyday calm, sleep support, or help staying comfortable – determine where to begin.
Start with that baseline and adjust slowly as you learn how your dog responds.
2. Choose the right format
CBD oils offer the most control because you can measure the exact amount your dog needs.
You can give the oil directly in the mouth (this usually absorbs a bit more efficiently) or mix it into food if that’s easier.
Treats work well too, especially for picky dogs – just check the mg-per-treat so you’re not accidentally giving too much or too little.
3. Stay consistent and adjust slowly
Most dogs respond best when CBD is given daily.
Some show changes within a few days, while others need a full week or two of consistent use.
Start with the recommended amount, watch how your dog feels, and make small changes until you find the dose that fits them best.
CBD Dosage for Dogs by Use
Your dog’s ideal CBD amount depends partly on what you’re using it for.
Use these simple starting points along with the formulas above:
Anxiety, Stress, or Noise Sensitivity
Start with a high-strength dose:
0.4 mg x your dog’s body weight (lbs.) = daily CBD amount
For situational stress (fireworks, visitors, travel), begin daily CBD a few days in advance so that it has time to build in their system.
Sleep Support or Everyday Wellness
Use a low-strength dose:
0.2 mg x your dog’s body weight (lbs.) = daily CBD amount
This is a gentle starting point for dogs who just need help settling or maintaining general balance.
Pain & Inflammation
Start with a high-strength dose:
0.4 mg x your dog’s body weight (lbs.) = daily CBD amount
If your dog is uncomfortable or in pain, the higher range is usually more effective.
Epilepsy
Talk with your veterinarian first if you’re considering CBD for dogs with epilepsy.
If your goal is general wellness support rather than treating seizures, you can start with the low-strength formula:
0.2 mg × body weight (lbs.)
Cancer
Speak with your veterinarian before using CBD for dogs with cancer.
For general wellness support, the low-strength formula is appropriate:
0.2 mg × body weight (lbs.)
Conclusion: How Much CBD Should You Give Your Dog?
CBD dosing isn’t exact, but starting with a weight-based amount makes things easy.
Use our chart or calculator to find your dog’s baseline, stay consistent for at least a week, and make small adjustments until the dose feels right for them.
Start low, go slow, and you’ll find the amount that helps your dog feel their best.
Ready to try CBD for your dog?
Explore Natural Ways CBD’s pet products, including treats and tinctures.
CBD Dosage for Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions we hear about CBD dosing for dogs.
Why isn’t CBD working for my dog?
Most dogs need 1–2 weeks of daily use before you’ll see full effects. If nothing changes, the dose may need a slightly higher dose – or a stronger product. Make sure you’re using a pet-specific, third-party-tested CBD.
Can I give my dog too much CBD?
Yes, but it isn’t dangerous. Too much can cause drooling, vomiting, wobbliness, shaking, or low energy. If you see these, pause or lower the dose and let your dog reset.
How soon will CBD begin working for my dog?
Most dogs feel initial effects within 30–60 minutes, but daily use for 1–2 weeks gives the most noticeable results.
Do vets recommend CBD for dogs?
Some do, but others can’t discuss CBD because of state laws. If you have concerns or your dog has a medical condition, checking with your vet is always a good idea.
Is dog CBD the same as human CBD?
The extract is the same, but pet formulas use dog-friendly flavors and strengths. Stick to pet products so dosing is accurate.
What are the side effects of CBD in dogs?
CBD is generally well-tolerated. Possible side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, or slight drops in blood pressure. If anything seems off, lower the dose.
How much CBD can I give my dog per day?
Start with 2 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight per day, then adjust slowly based on how your dog responds.
Sources
[1] Corsetti, Sara et al. “Cannabis sativa L. may reduce aggressive behaviour towards humans in shelter dogs.” Scientific reports vol. 11,1 2773. 2 Feb. 2021, doi:10.1038/s41598-021-82439-2
[2] Gugliandolo, Enrico et al. “Effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Canine Inflammatory Response: An Ex Vivo Study on LPS Stimulated Whole Blood.” Veterinary sciences vol. 8,9 185. 4 Sep. 2021, doi:10.3390/vetsci8090185
[3] Potschka, Heidrun et al. “Cannabidiol in canine epilepsy.” Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997) vol. 290 (2022): 105913. doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105913
