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This article was updated in June 2026 to reflect current evidence and clinical use.
CBD for canine osteoarthritis is receiving increasing attention as veterinarians seek additional options to support dogs with chronic pain and mobility issues.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and reduced mobility in dogs. While NSAIDs and other conventional therapies remain important treatment options, veterinarians are increasingly exploring cannabidiol (CBD)[1] as part of a multimodal approach to pain management.
Backed by a growing body of research, CBD’s anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective properties make it a promising option for dogs living with osteoarthritis. Here’s what veterinarians need to know.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in modulating pain and inflammation. By influencing cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), as well as TRPV1 (vanilloid) and PPAR receptors, CBD can help regulate pain perception and inflammatory responses.
More recent studies published in 2025 have continued to support the safety profile of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis, while further investigating its role as part of multimodal pain management strategies. Additional large-scale clinical trials are still needed to establish optimal dosing protocols and long-term outcomes.
While NSAIDs remain a mainstay in OA management, their long-term use is associated with adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal ulcers, renal impairment, and hepatotoxicity.
CBD may offer an additional option for chronic pain management with studies indicating minimal side effects in dogs when properly dosed.
As with any long-term therapy, monitoring liver enzymes and patient response remains an important consideration when prescribing CBD alongside other medications.
Many dogs with OA require adjunctive medications such as opioids or gabapentin for pain relief. However, these medications have drawbacks, including sedation, ataxia, and tolerance development.
CBD should not necessarily replace traditional therapies, but can serve as an effective adjunct. Combining CBD with NSAIDs, physical therapy, weight management, and other interventions may optimise outcomes.
Veterinarians should be mindful of product quality, dosing, and legal considerations when recommending CBD.
Australian veterinarians can access legal prescription pathways for CBD products in accordance with current regulatory requirements.
Research suggests CBD may be used as part of a multimodal pain management approach alongside conventional therapies, although treatment decisions should be made on an individual patient basis.
Studies have investigated doses ranging from 1–2 mg/kg twice daily. In practice, doses are used both above and below this range. Dosing should always be tailored to the individual patient and regularly monitored.
While additional research is still emerging, current evidence suggests CBD may have a role to play in the multimodal management of canine osteoarthritis, offering veterinarians another option to support patient comfort, mobility and quality of life.
By considering CBD in your practice, you can offer pet owners an additional treatment option that may assist with comfort and mobility as part of a multimodal management plan.
CBD Vets Australia supports Australian veterinarians with access to prescription-only CBD products, clinical resources, ongoing education and practical guidance to help integrate veterinary medicinal cannabis into clinical practice.
Visit their website and register to prescribe HERE.
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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