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How Much CBD Should I Give a 160 lb. Dog?

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| August 30, 2023

The increasing awareness of the potential benefits of CBD (Cannabidiol) is not limited to humans; pet owners are also exploring it as a health supplement for their dogs. From helping to ease anxiety to potentially alleviating pain, CBD offers numerous health benefits without the high caused by THC. But when it comes to larger dogs, like those weighing 160 pounds, what’s the right dosage? In this comprehensive article, we’ll guide you through the considerations for determining the appropriate CBD dosage for a 160 lb. dog.

What is CBD and How Can It Benefit My Dog?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, it does not have psychoactive effects. The potential health benefits for dogs include:

  • Pain relief
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Anxiety and stress reduction
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Digestive health support

Suggested CBD Dosage For A 160 lb. Dog

For a 160-pound dog, the general guideline for CBD dosage is 32 mg of CBD.

Note: It’s advisable to start with a smaller dosage and observe your dog’s reaction. If no noticeable effects occur, consider increasing the dosage by 20-30%.

Types of CBD Products for Dogs

There are various types of CBD products designed specifically for dogs:

  • CBD Oil: Highly versatile in terms of dosage.
  • CBD Treats: Easy to administer but less flexible for adjusting dosage.
  • CBD Capsules: Can be hidden in a treat or mixed into food.
  • CBD Topicals: Creams and balms for external use.

Factors That Can Influence Dosage

Several factors may require adjustments to the standard dosage:

  • Age: Older dogs may have different needs than younger ones.
  • Health Conditions: More severe conditions may require a higher dosage.
  • Other Medications: Interactions with other drugs can affect the optimal CBD dosage.

Administration Methods

There are different ways to administer CBD to your dog, each with pros and cons:

  • Directly Into the Mouth: This ensures full dosage but may be tricky if your dog dislikes the taste.
  • Mixed With Food: Easier to administer but may delay the onset of effects.
  • Topical Application: Useful for targeted treatment of skin issues or localized pain.

Monitoring and Adjustments

After you’ve administered CBD, monitor your pet for any changes:

  1. Immediate Effects: Watch for any signs of allergic reactions or discomfort.
  2. Long-Term Effects: Keep an eye out for improvements in the condition you’re treating.

Veterinary Consultation is Crucial

Even though CBD is considered safe for dogs, consulting your vet is crucial for several reasons:

  • Individualized advice on dosage
  • Monitoring of potential interactions with other medications
  • Guidance on how to adjust the dosage if necessary

Potential Side Effects

While uncommon, potential side effects from CBD include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Decreased appetite

Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms in your dog.

The Top Rated CBD Oil Recommended by iHeartDogs

iHeartDogs recently reviewed the best CBD oils for dogs and the best CBD treats for dogs. Our top-rated oil is the Cannanine brand, which we love for it’s Clean Label Project approval and 3rd Party Testing for every batch. In addition, each and every bottle sold provides 7 meals for homeless pets!

Cannanine 500mg CBD Oil

Conclusion

For a 160-pound dog, the standard starting point for CBD dosage is 32 mg of CBD. However, it’s essential to start with a smaller dosage and closely monitor your dog’s reaction. If there is no noticeable improvement, consider gradually increasing the dosage by 20-30% while consulting your veterinarian. As always, the safety and well-being of your pet should be the top priority, so ensure to seek your vet’s advice before incorporating any new supplements into your dog’s routine.

Additional CBD for Dogs Resources

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