CBD for Dogs: What This New Study Reveals About Oils vs Treats

When it comes to the health and happiness of our dogs, many of us would try anything to give them a little extra support - especially when it’s natural, plant-based, and backed by emerging science. That’s where cannabidiol (CBD), a natural extract from the hemp plant, comes in.

CBD oil for dogs has become a growing area of interest, not just for pet owners but also for veterinarians and researchers. With people increasingly turning to natural supplements for stress, sleep, and recovery, it’s no surprise we’re exploring similar options for our four-legged companions. But, just like for humans, when it comes to giving CBD to dogs, not all product formats work in the same way.

A recent study has taken a closer look at something dog owners have long wondered: Is CBD oil better than CBD treats? And what actually happens in a dog’s body when they take CBD every day?

Let’s unpack the science - and what it could mean for your pet’s wellness routine.

A Peek Inside the Study

Over a period of 30 days, researchers gave 16 healthy dogs daily doses of CBD - either as an oil dosed at 5 mg/kg body weight or baked into a treat of 50 mg CBD. Based on the weight of the dogs, both groups received roughly the same amount, though the delivery method was different. Throughout the month, the team monitored the dogs’ blood levels, overall health, and potential side effects.

What made this study stand out is that it didn’t just look at the presence of CBD in the bloodstream - it also tracked how the body absorbed, processed, and cleared it. This kind of data is critical when it comes to making informed decisions about what type of CBD product is best for your dog.

CBD Oil: Faster, Stronger, More Consistent

So, what did the research find?

Dogs who received CBD in oil form had significantly higher levels of CBD in their blood compared to those who ate the same amount in a treat. In fact, the oil group showed over twice the concentration in key measures. Not only did the CBD reach peak levels more quickly, but the overall exposure was greater and lasted longer.

This means CBD oil may provide more consistent support throughout the day - a potential advantage for dogs with ongoing needs, such as managing stress or staying calm during fireworks, car rides, or vet visits.

Why does this happen? It comes down to absorption. When CBD is given on its own as an oil, especially one with a well-chosen carrier like rice bran oil, it’s absorbed more efficiently by the body. The study used refined rice bran oil, rich in natural antioxidants, which may have helped improve stability and uptake.

Treats: A Practical, Palatable Option

But it’s not all about numbers. While CBD oil may perform better in terms of absorption, the treat format has its own appeal - especially for fussy eaters or busy pet parents.

In this study, the treats were well tolerated and still showed measurable levels of CBD in the bloodstream, just lower and slightly delayed. For dogs who are sensitive or who simply won’t accept a dropper of oil, a dog-friendly CBD product in treat form could be a more practical choice.

And as long as the dosage is adjusted accordingly - potentially a bit higher or more frequent than with oils - treats can still be an effective way to introduce plant-based supplements into your dog’s routine.

Is It Safe? What the Blood Tests Showed

One of the biggest concerns among pet owners is safety. The good news? Neither the oil nor the treat caused any clinically significant side effects over the 30-day period.

The researchers closely monitored the dogs’ bloodwork throughout the study. While there were some mild changes - such as slight shifts in red blood cell levels or liver enzymes - all values remained within normal healthy ranges. No dogs showed signs of discomfort, distress, or adverse reactions like vomiting or lethargy.

This adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that CBD, when given in appropriate amounts, appears well-tolerated by dogs. Still, the researchers emphasised that every dog is different - and that close monitoring and thoughtful dosing remain key.

Oils vs Treats: Choosing What’s Right for Your Dog

If you’re thinking of trying CBD for your dog, you might be wondering which form to choose. The answer depends on your dog’s needs and your daily routine.

Choose oil if:

• You want quicker and more consistent absorption

• Your dog doesn’t mind the taste

• You’re looking for more precise control over the dose

Choose treats if:

• Your dog prefers snacks to supplements

• You want an easy way to incorporate CBD into mealtimes

• You’re focused on convenience and routine

Just remember: treat-based products may require a higher dose to achieve the same effect as oils, due to lower absorption rates. Always start low, go slow, and speak to your vet if you're unsure.

Beyond Delivery: The Bigger Picture in Canine Wellness

One of the most fascinating parts of this study is what it suggests beyond just oils vs treats.

The research showed that when given daily, CBD tends to build up gradually in a dog’s system. But once the dosing stopped, it cleared out fairly quickly. This gives us important clues about how CBD might work best over time - and how long-lasting (or not) its effects might be.

In addition, certain blood markers shifted in subtle ways that point to possible immune and anti-inflammatory responses. While it's too early to draw definitive conclusions, it’s an encouraging signal that natural calming support for dogs could go hand-in-hand with broader wellbeing.

As researchers continue to investigate, these findings open the door to more refined dosing guidelines and more targeted use cases in veterinary care.

What This Means for You and Your Pet

If you’ve been curious about using CBD dog supplements but hesitant to start, this study offers some reassuring news: both oil and treat forms were found to be safe, well-tolerated, and effective at delivering CBD into the bloodstream - just with different strengths and speeds.

Whether your dog struggles with separation stress, has trouble settling during storms, or you simply want to explore plant-based supplements for pets, CBD could be a useful part of their wellness toolkit.

That said, it’s always important to choose high-quality, dog-friendly CBD products, follow safe dosing practices and speak to your vet. Look for products made from hemp, free from THC, and third-party tested for purity and consistency.

The Takeaway: Small Drops, Big Impact

We’re still in the early days of understanding exactly how cannabidiol for pets works, but studies like this help build the foundation for better guidance - and better outcomes.

Oils may offer stronger and faster absorption. Treats may be easier to give. And for many dogs, either can be a helpful addition to their care routine.

Curious to learn more? Reach out with any questions - our team is here to help!

Sources

[1] Kamutchat P, Limsuwan S, Leewichit N, Tansakul N. Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of a Single Cannabidiol Dose in Oil and Treat Forms and Health Impacts After 30 Days of Administration in Dogs. Animals (Basel). 2025 May 19;15(10):1470.