How Long Does CBD Oil Stay in Dogs’ System?
Key Takeaways
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CBD can last anywhere from 4 to 24 hours, depending on factors like your dog’s size, metabolism, and dosage.
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The onset of effects varies, typically starting within 30–60 minutes, though treats may take longer to kick in.
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Higher doses and more potent CBD products tend to provide longer-lasting effects.
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More active dogs may process CBD faster than less active ones.
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Try LiveGood’s CBD Oil for Pets for long-lasting, high-quality relief.
How Long Does CBD Oil Stay in a Dog’s System?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the hemp plant. It’s non-psychoactive and won’t make your pup feel high. Instead, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate functions like mood, pain, and overall well-being.
In short: It’s a natural way to help your dog feel better, inside and out!
How Long Does it Stay in Your Dog’s System?
Here’s the truth: It depends.
CBD can stay in a dog’s system anywhere from 4 to 24 hours. Why the wide range? Because every dog is unique!
Factors that influence duration include:
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Size & weight — Bigger dogs may metabolize CBD differently.
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Metabolism speed — Just like humans, dogs process compounds at different rates.
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Dosage — Higher doses might stick around longer.
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Method of administration — Oils, treats, or capsules all absorb differently.
Knowing this helps you fine-tune the dosage and timing for your pup’s specific needs.
Why Are Pet Owners Turning to CBD Oil?
Because it works.
Pet owners are using CBD oil to tackle issues like:
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Anxiety & stress — Think thunderstorms or separation anxiety.
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Joint pain & inflammation — Especially in senior dogs.
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General wellness support — Because prevention is key!
The beauty of CBD lies in its natural origins and the growing body of real-life success stories from pet parents.
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How Long Do the Effects of CBD Oil Last in Dogs?
Quick-Start Relief: When Do CBD Effects Kick In?
Knowing how long CBD oil works for your dog's wellness can help you manage their health like a pro.
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CBD oil (under the tongue) → Effects start in 30 minutes to an hour.
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CBD treats or capsules → Slower onset, as they pass through digestion first.
During this initial window, you might notice your dog becoming calmer, more playful, or finally getting relief from nagging discomfort.
Studies show that CBD has a long half-life (9 hours) and a large volume of distribution in dogs, but oral bioavailability is low (13–19%) due to the first-pass effect.
After taking CBD oil, most dogs feel calm within an hour and that chill vibe can last all day.
Long-Term Benefits: CBD Builds Up Over Time
With regular use, CBD can accumulate in your dog’s system, leading to longer-lasting effects.
This means you might eventually reduce the dosage without losing the benefits. But every dog is unique, so keep monitoring and adjusting as needed.
Does Your Dog’s Activity Level Impact CBD Duration?
YES. If your pup is super energetic, they might need more frequent doses to keep the effects steady.
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Active dogs (always zooming around) → Faster metabolism, shorter CBD effects.
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Chill dogs (couch potato vibes) → Slower metabolism, longer-lasting relief.
Factors Affecting How Long CBD Stays in Your Dog’s System
Dog Size & Weight
Smaller dogs tend to metabolize CBD faster than larger breeds. So, a tiny Chihuahua might process CBD more quickly than a big, lovable Labrador.
This means smaller dogs may need more frequent doses, while larger dogs might feel the effects longer.
Metabolism: Every Dog Is Different
Just like us, dogs have unique metabolic rates. And this plays a HUGE role in how quickly they process CBD.
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Younger, more active dogs may clear CBD faster.
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Older, less active dogs might retain CBD longer.
Even factors like overall health can influence how long CBD sticks around.
CBD Dosage & Potency
The amount and strength of CBD you give your dog directly impacts how long it stays in their system.
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Higher doses & stronger products = Longer-lasting effects.
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Smaller doses & lower potency = Faster elimination.
Finding the right balance is key to optimizing your dog’s CBD routine.
Method of Administration
The way CBD is given affects both how quickly it works and how long it lasts:
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CBD oil (under the tongue) — Faster absorption, shorter duration.
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CBD treats or capsules — Slower onset, longer-lasting effects.
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Topicals (for skin issues) — Localized relief, minimal systemic absorption.
A recent study researched how different forms of CBD (oil, nanoemulsion, water-soluble, and semi-solid) affect absorption in dogs. It showed that liquid forms had higher bioavailability and faster uptake than semi-liquid forms.
Safe CBD Administration for Dogs
General Dosage Guidelines
The golden rule of CBD dosing? Start small and build up gradually. This lets you see how your dog reacts and find the sweet spot for their needs.
Pet Size |
Dose |
5 lbs |
5–10 drops |
25 lbs |
25 drops (½ dropperful) |
50 lbs |
50 drops (1 dropperful) |
75 lbs |
75 drops (1½ dropperfuls) |
100 lbs |
100 drops (2 dropperfuls) |
A study on healthy Beagles showed that daily oral CBD administration was well tolerated, with dose-dependent increases in systemic exposure and minimal adverse effects.
Since every dog is unique, use these as a starting point, and fine-tune the dosage based on your pup’s individual response.
Quality Matters: Choose Pet-Safe CBD
Always choose high-quality, pet-specific CBD. Human CBD products might contain ingredients like xylitol or essential oils that are TOXIC to dogs.
Look for products that are:
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Third-party tested for purity and potency.
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Full- or broad-spectrum for a richer range of beneficial compounds.
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Formulated specifically for pets.
Watch & Learn
Your dog can’t tell you how they feel — but their behavior speaks volumes.
Keep a CBD journal to track:
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Mood changes: Are they calmer? More playful?
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Pain levels or mobility: Are they moving more easily?
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Appetite or digestion: Any changes here?
If you notice improvements, that’s awesome! If not, gradually adjust the dose. And if you spot side effects like lethargy or tummy troubles, scale back.
Team Up with Your Vet
Before starting CBD, it’s smart to loop in your veterinarian. They can help you in deciding the dosage, potential medication interactions, and product selection.
Ask your vet:
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What dosage fits your dog's health history?
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Are there any risks with current meds?
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Which CBD format (oil, treats, capsules) makes the most sense?
Follow up regularly to keep your dog’s CBD routine optimized and safe.
Why Choose LiveGood’s CBD Oil for Pets?
When it’s about your pet’s health, quality matters. LiveGood’s CBD Oil for Pets is made with the same high standards as our human formulations, giving your pet the safe, effective support they deserve.
Our 300mg chicken-flavored pet formula is a simple way to support relief from anxiety, pain, and other common issues your pet may face.
LiveGood Full Spectrum CBD Oil for Pets is fast-acting, long-lasting, and formulated to support your furry friend’s well-being — naturally.
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Enhances Relaxation and Calm — Perfect for anxious pups or stressful situations.
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Supports Healthy Sleep — Helps restless dogs settle in for a good night’s rest.
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Boosts Overall Well-Being — Supports your pet’s body and mind for long-term health.
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USDA Organic & Non-GMO — Clean, natural ingredients you can trust.
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MCT Oil for Maximum Absorption — So your pet gets the most out of every drop.
Just follow the weight-based dosing guide on the label and add the oil to their food.
Grab your LiveGood’s CBD Oil for Pets bottle today and start your dog’s wellness journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can CBD oil make my dog high?
Nope! CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make your dog feel high. The compound responsible for that effect is THC, which is removed (or only present in trace amounts) in high-quality products like LiveGood’s CBD Oil for Pets.
Are there any side effects of CBD for dogs?
CBD is generally well-tolerated, but some dogs might experience mild side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or slight digestive upset. Start with a low dose and adjust gradually to minimize any issues.
How often should I give my dog CBD oil?
It depends on your dog’s needs! Many pet owners give CBD once or twice a day. For ongoing issues like anxiety or joint pain, consistent use often works best. If you’re unsure, consult with your vet.
Can I give my dog CBD every day?
Yes! Daily CBD use can help maintain steady levels in your dog’s system, potentially enhancing long-term benefits. Just make sure to monitor their response and adjust dosage as needed.
Can I mix CBD oil with my dog’s food or treats?
Yes! Mixing CBD with food is a great way to make it more palatable. Plus, digestion helps CBD release more gradually, leading to longer-lasting effects. Just follow the weight-based dosing guide on the bottle!