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Originally published in February 2025, this post has been reviewed and updated to reflect current evidence on the use of CBD in senior dogs.
As dogs age, they often experience mobility issues, joint stiffness, and age-related discomfort that can impact their daily activities. With growing interest in integrative therapies, CBD oil has emerged as a promising option for supporting senior dogs.
Aging dogs may suffer from a range of health challenges, including arthritis, inflammation, cognitive decline, and reduced appetite. Traditional treatments such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be effective but may also come with side effects that are difficult for some older pets to tolerate.
CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has gained attention for its potential to support dogs with age-related issues. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, appetite, and mood.
Many pet owners are now looking to veterinarians for guidance on how CBD can complement traditional treatments.
For veterinary professionals, understanding the potential benefits of CBD oil can help guide clients in making informed decisions about their pet’s care.
A growing body of veterinary research suggests CBD may provide clinical benefits for some dogs, particularly those with osteoarthritis and chronic pain, although the overall quality of evidence remains limited and further high-quality clinical trials are needed:
CBD is generally considered as one component of a multimodal management plan rather than a replacement for established therapies.
For many senior patients, veterinarians may incorporate CBD alongside weight management, rehabilitation, environmental modification, nutritional support and conventional analgesics where appropriate.
Individual treatment plans should always be tailored to the patient’s clinical presentation and monitored regularly.
When discussing CBD with pet owners, it’s essential to provide guidance based on veterinary best practices:
While CBD has generally been well tolerated in published canine studies, mild increases in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) have been reported in some dogs.
Periodic clinical assessment and appropriate blood monitoring may be considered, particularly during longer-term use or in patients receiving multiple medications.
CBD should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to senior dog care. A holistic plan might include:
Veterinarians play a crucial role in guiding pet owners through the complexities of senior pet care. As interest in CBD continues to grow, it may offer an additional option within a multimodal treatment plan for carefully selected patients.
While the strongest evidence currently relates to osteoarthritis and chronic pain, research into other potential applications continues to evolve. Ongoing clinical studies will help refine dosing protocols, identify which patients are most likely to benefit, and further establish CBD’s role in veterinary medicine.
By staying informed on emerging evidence and current regulations, veterinarians can continue to support pet owners in making informed decisions that prioritise their senior dog’s comfort, mobility and quality of life.
For more information on CBD for senior dogs and palliative care, visit CBD Vets Australia..
Dr Chris Lee is the Veterinary Director of CBD Vets Australia and has practiced as a small animal veterinarian for over 30 years. Dr Lee runs Pet Universe Veterinary Centres and Adelaide Canine Rehabilitation Centre in South Australia alongside an award-winning team with a special interest in pet rehabilitation and regenerative medicines, including advanced pain care techniques. In his practice, Dr Lee has seen first-hand how CBD oil can be used not only for pain control, but also for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and as a mood balancer for animals, and he is excited by its use as an adjunct therapy in veterinary medicine.
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