The moment your show dog steps into the ring, every eye in the arena is watching. The pressure isn’t just on you—it’s on them. While some dogs thrive under the spotlight, others struggle with the travel, crowds, and intense scrutiny that define competitive showing. You’ve tried desensitization training, calming vests, and even prescription medications, but the edge of anxiety remains. Enter CBD-infused training chews: a rapidly evolving solution that’s helping handlers support their dogs’ emotional balance without compromising the alertness and drive judges expect. This guide cuts through the marketing noise to deliver evidence-based insights on selecting, dosing, and integrating these specialized supplements into your show dog’s routine—ensuring your canine athlete stays focused, confident, and ring-ready.
Top 10 CBD-Infused Training Chews for Anxious Show Dogs
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Natural Dog Company Calming Chews for Dogs, Stress & Anxiety Relief Supplement with Chamomile, Valerian Root & Melatonin, Natural Soothing Chews for Travel, Thunder, Fireworks & Separation (90 cnt)
Overview:
The Natural Dog Company Calming Chews provide a comprehensive anxiety solution with 90 natural chews formulated for multiple stress scenarios. Combining chamomile, valerian root, melatonin, and L-tryptophan, these supplements target fireworks, thunderstorms, travel anxiety, and separation issues. The brand uniquely emphasizes digestive support, recognizing that canine stress often manifests as stomach discomfort—a detail many competitors overlook.
What Makes It Stand Out:
This product excels at scenario-based marketing, clearly mapping each anxiety trigger to specific summer situations like July 4th celebrations and road trips. The inclusion of digestive-soothing ingredients addresses the gut-brain connection, while the generous 90-count supply far exceeds typical 30-60 count offerings. This makes it ideal for prolonged stressful periods or multi-dog households needing consistent dosing.
Value for Money:
While price isn’t specified, the 90-count quantity suggests strong value compared to standard packages. The multi-scenario approach eliminates need for separate products, and the natural ingredient profile appeals to health-conscious owners. For dogs requiring regular supplementation, this larger container reduces reorder frequency and per-unit cost.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include versatile formulation, digestive support, natural ingredients, and generous quantity. Weaknesses include unknown pricing, potential variability in effectiveness between individual dogs, and lack of flavor information. The product may require consistent, longer-term dosing to achieve optimal results.
Bottom Line:
An excellent choice for owners seeking a natural, multi-purpose anxiety solution. The 90-count supply and digestive support make it particularly valuable for dogs with stress-related stomach issues.
2. Pet Vet Calming Chews for Dogs – Dog Anxiety Relief (Beef Liver Flavor 60 Chews) – Stress Relief, Dog Supplements for Hyperactive & Anxious Dogs – Dog Anxiety Chews for Relaxation, Dog Care Products
Overview:
Pet Vet Calming Chews deliver veterinarian-formulated anxiety relief in a palatable beef liver flavor. Each 60-count container features a scientifically-selected blend of taurine, inositol, theanine, thiamin, and lemon balm designed to support emotional balance during vet visits, thunderstorms, car rides, and separation anxiety. The formulation targets both immediate stress responses and long-term emotional stability.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The veterinarian-operated formulation provides professional credibility rare in supplement markets. Unlike herb-heavy products, this uses amino acids and B-vitamins for a biochemical approach to calming. The beef liver flavor dramatically improves compliance, turning supplementation into a reward. As a woman-owned small business, it carries ethical appeal for socially-conscious consumers.
Value for Money:
At $24.99 for 60 chews ($0.42 per count), this sits in the premium range. The veterinary expertise and specialized formula justify the cost over basic alternatives. For moderate to severe anxiety cases, the professional formulation may prove more cost-effective than cheaper, less effective options that require higher dosing.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include vet-backed formulation, excellent palatability, portability, and suitability for all life stages from puppies to seniors. Weaknesses include higher per-chew cost and some ingredients having less extensive research than traditional options like melatonin. The proprietary blend may not satisfy owners wanting full transparency.
Bottom Line:
Ideal for owners prioritizing professional formulation over budget concerns. The beef flavor and veterinary credentials make it a reliable choice for persistent anxiety issues requiring trusted supplementation.
3. Calming Chews for Dogs - 30 Anxiety Relief Treats for Fireworks, Thunder, and Storms - Natural Dog Calming Treats for Large and Small Breeds with Thiamine, L-Tryptophan, Ginger, and Melatonin
Overview:
These Calming Chews offer an accessible entry point into anxiety management with 30 treats featuring a proven blend of thiamine, L-tryptophan, ginger, and melatonin. Designed for dogs over 12 weeks, they address thunderstorms, travel, fireworks, and vet visits with clear administration guidelines. The Chew + Heal formula specifically includes digestive support for travel-related nausea.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The sub-$10 price point makes this one of the most affordable calming supplements available. Ginger’s inclusion specifically targets motion sickness, a thoughtful addition for traveling families. Clear instructions to administer 30 minutes before stress events demonstrate practical understanding of canine anxiety timing. The formula balances calming and digestive support in one simple product.
Value for Money:
At $9.99 for 30 chews ($0.33 per count), this represents exceptional value for occasional use or trial periods. It’s an economical way to test supplement effectiveness before investing in larger quantities. The low financial risk makes it perfect for budget-conscious owners or those with mild, situational anxiety concerns.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include unbeatable price, natural ingredients, stomach-soothing ginger, and clear usage timing. Weaknesses include the limited 30-count supply that may not suffice for large breeds requiring multiple chews, and absence of flavor details. The smaller package necessitates more frequent reordering for regular users.
Bottom Line:
Perfect for first-time users or situational anxiety management. The low cost and proven ingredients make it an excellent trial option before committing to larger supplies, especially for travel-specific needs.
4. Colorado Dog Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs Anxiety Relief - 120 Count - USA Made - 350 MG Per Calming Treat for Dogs
Overview:
Colorado Dog Hemp Calming Chews take a cannabis-based approach to anxiety relief with an impressive 350mg of hemp per treat. The substantial 120-count package provides extended supply for dogs of all ages and breeds. Manufactured in the USA, these chews emphasize natural stress reduction while uniquely claiming to ease joint and arthritis pain alongside nervousness.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The high hemp dosage distinguishes it from hemp-flavored competitors, potentially delivering stronger calming effects. The 120-count quantity dramatically outpaces standard offerings, reducing reorder frequency. Unlike typical anxiety products, these explicitly target joint and arthritis pain—a common comorbidity in senior dogs that exacerbates stress. Domestic manufacturing ensures quality control and ingredient traceability.
Value for Money:
At $16.99 for 120 chews, the per-unit cost is extremely competitive, especially given the hemp potency. This bulk approach saves approximately 30-40% compared to purchasing multiple smaller packages. For owners committed to hemp-based therapy, the value proposition is compelling, particularly with the added pain relief benefits.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include large quantity, high hemp potency, joint pain relief claims, and USA manufacturing. Weaknesses include hemp’s regulatory ambiguity, potential for excessive sedation in sensitive dogs, and lack of detailed ingredient transparency beyond hemp content. Some owners may avoid hemp products due to veterinary or personal concerns.
Bottom Line:
Outstanding value for hemp advocates needing long-term supply. The 120-count and pain relief benefits make it ideal for senior dogs suffering from combined anxiety and mobility issues, though owners should consult veterinarians about hemp use.
5. Calming Chews for Dogs - 60 Anxiety Relief Treats for Fireworks, Thunder, and Storms - Natural Dog Calming Treats for Large and Small Breeds with Thiamine, L-Tryptophan, Ginger, and Melatonin
Overview:
These Calming Chews provide a balanced middle-ground solution with 60 treats featuring the same effective blend as popular 30-count options. Combining thiamine, L-tryptophan, ginger, and melatonin, they address thunderstorms, travel, fireworks, and separation anxiety for dogs over 12 weeks. The doubled supply supports multi-event scenarios without frequent repurchasing.
What Makes It Stand Out:
This product essentially packages two 30-count bottles into one convenient container, eliminating reordering hassles. The Chew + Heal Labs formula emphasizes digestive support through ginger and chamomile, making it particularly travel-friendly. The consistent $0.33 per chew pricing across sizes demonstrates fair scaling, rewarding bulk purchase without premium pricing.
Value for Money:
At $19.98 for 60 chews, the per-unit cost matches the budget-friendly 30-count version, effectively offering bulk convenience without added expense. This represents smart value for owners who’ve validated the formula’s effectiveness and want to stock up. The mid-size package balances cost efficiency with product freshness better than oversized containers.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include proven ingredient blend, stomach support, clear 30-minute pre-event dosing, and convenient quantity. Weaknesses include lack of flavor variety, absence of veterinary endorsement, and formula similarity to competitors offering no unique differentiator. The 60-count may still prove insufficient for giant breeds requiring higher therapeutic doses.
Bottom Line:
A practical choice for established users of this specific formula. The doubled quantity provides convenience without premium pricing, making it suitable for regular anxiety management in households with consistent stress triggers.
6. Calming Chews for Dogs - 60 Peanut Butter Melatonin Dog Sleep Aid & Calming Dog Treats with Thiamine, L-Tryptophan & Ginger
Overview: These peanut butter-flavored calming chews deliver dual-action relief for anxious dogs requiring rest. Each container provides 60 chews at $19.99, targeting stress and sleep through thiamine, L-tryptophan, melatonin, ginger, and chamomile. Formulated for thunderstorms, travel, fireworks, and separation anxiety, they soothe nervous systems while easing digestive upset during stressful events. The water-soluble vitamins ensure rapid absorption.
What Makes It Stand Out: The irresistible peanut butter flavor eliminates administration struggles, turning supplementation into a treat. Melatonin inclusion transforms this from basic calming to genuine sleep support, crucial for overnight anxiety. Ginger and chamomile synergistically combat motion sickness while promoting relaxation. Water-soluble thiamine provides B-vitamin calming properties, while L-tryptophan naturally boosts serotonin. This dual mental-physical approach excels for travel-related multi-symptom stress, addressing both nausea and nervousness in one dose.
Value for Money: At approximately $0.33 per chew, this mid-range option offers strong value for a multi-ingredient, melatonin-enhanced formula. Single-ingredient alternatives often cost more per active component. The 60-count adequately serves small to medium dogs, though large breeds requiring multiple chews per dose diminish long-term value. Competitive pricing for sleep-specific calming aids makes this accessible for occasional use without financial strain.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Highly palatable flavor; proven sleep support; stomach-soothing ginger; transparent, science-backed ingredients; affordable trial entry point; rapid absorption. Weaknesses: 60-count depletes rapidly for large dogs; melatonin may cause excessive drowsiness; not grain-free for sensitive diets; requires secure storage; limited long-term supply.
Bottom Line: Excellent for situational anxiety requiring sedation, particularly travel and fireworks. Optimal for small to medium dogs as an occasional aid. Owners should monitor melatonin sensitivity and calculate dosage costs for larger breeds before committing to regular use.
7. Pure Dogs Calming Chews for Anxiety & Stress Relief - Dog Treats with Organic Hemp & GABA - Soothe Scratching & Restlessness - 90 Calming Treats
Overview: Pure Dogs Co. offers a premium anxiety solution with 90 calming chews at $32.97, featuring organic hemp seed oil and GABA. The proprietary 13-ingredient blend targets stress, hyperactivity, and compulsive behaviors like scratching and paw licking. Grain-free and gluten-free, this formula suits sensitive dogs while addressing separation anxiety, thunderstorms, and veterinary visits with advanced neurological support. The comprehensive approach supports daily use.
What Makes It Stand Out: Organic hemp and GABA provide sophisticated neurotransmitter support beyond basic herbal calming. Valerian root specifically curbs compulsive scratching and restlessness, while chamomile and passion flower offer gentle sedation. The grain-free, clean formulation prioritizes digestive sensitivity. Rigorous taste testing ensures palatability despite complex ingredients. The 90-count container supports extended daily use or multi-dog households economically, reducing reorder frequency.
Value for Money: At roughly $0.37 per chew, the premium pricing reflects advanced ingredients like organic hemp and GABA. The larger quantity offsets initial cost, making it economical for regular dosing. Comparable hemp-based formulas frequently exceed $0.45 per chew, positioning this as mid-premium value. Ideal for owners prioritizing clean, comprehensive support over budget options, especially for chronic anxiety management.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Advanced GABA and hemp support; grain-free for sensitive stomachs; targets compulsive behaviors; generous 90-count supply; extensively taste-tested; clean ingredient philosophy. Weaknesses: Higher upfront investment; hemp may concern some owners; potent formula overkill for mild anxiety; valerian aroma could deter picky eaters; complex ingredient list.
Bottom Line: Best suited for dogs with moderate to severe anxiety or obsessive behaviors requiring daily intervention. The premium, clean formula justifies cost for committed owners. Recommended for sensitive breeds needing grain-free neurological support rather than occasional situational use, particularly for chronic conditions.
Understanding Show Dog Anxiety: Beyond the Spotlight
Show dog anxiety differs dramatically from everyday pet stress. These canine athletes face unique triggers: the sterile smell of grooming spray, the echo of barking dogs in enclosed venues, the unsettling sensation of a judge’s hands probing their structure, and the disruption of their normal routine. Unlike a nervous companion animal hiding under the bed, an anxious show dog might pace, lick excessively, hold their ears back, or display a tucked tail—subtle cues that judges interpret as poor temperament. This performance anxiety can sabotage years of breeding and training investment. Recognizing these breed-specific manifestations is the first step toward effective intervention.
The Physiology of Performance Stress in Canines
When a show dog experiences anxiety, their cortisol levels spike, triggering a cascade of physiological responses. Heart rate accelerates, digestion slows, and muscle tension increases—none of which are conducive to the fluid, confident movement judges reward. Chronic stress can even suppress the immune system, making your dog more susceptible to the “show crud” that circulates at venues. Understanding this biological response explains why simple behavioral training sometimes falls short; you’re fighting neurochemistry, not just habits.
What Are CBD-Infused Training Chews?
CBD-infused training chews are functional treats combining cannabidiol with palatable ingredients designed for repeated use during training sessions. Unlike oil tinctures or capsules, these chews serve a dual purpose: delivering a precise CBD dose while acting as a high-value reward. For show dogs, this means the calming compound becomes associated with positive reinforcement, creating a Pavlovian response where the act of receiving the chew itself begins to signal relaxation. Quality formulations include not just hemp-derived CBD but also supportive compounds like L-theanine, chamomile, or tryptophan that synergistically promote calm focus.
The Training Advantage of Chew Format
The chew format offers distinct advantages for show preparation. They’re portable for travel to shows, require no measuring or mess, and can be administered discreetly ringside without drawing attention. Most importantly, they transform supplementation from a chore into a reward, seamlessly integrating into your existing training protocol. For dogs who become treat-focused in the ring, these chews can be broken into smaller pieces for micro-dosing throughout a long competition day.
The Science Behind CBD and Canine Anxiety
Cannabidiol interacts with your dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors regulating mood, stress response, and emotional memory. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t bind directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, meaning it won’t produce intoxication. Instead, it modulates receptor activity and enhances natural endocannabinoid levels, essentially helping the ECS function more efficiently. Research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that CBD can reduce anxiety-related behaviors by influencing serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, similar to how some anti-anxiety medications work—but without the sedation that could cost your dog points in the ring.
The “Entourage Effect” for Show Dogs
When CBD is combined with other hemp compounds like CBG, CBC, and trace terpenes, it creates an “entourage effect” that may enhance therapeutic benefits. For show dogs, this means potentially better anxiety relief at lower doses. However, this also introduces trace THC, which requires careful consideration for competition animals subject to testing protocols.
Why Training Chews vs. Other CBD Formats?
While oils offer flexibility and topicals target localized issues, training chews provide unmatched convenience for the show environment. Oils require refrigeration, careful measurement, and can spill in your grooming bag. Capsules are difficult to administer without a pill pocket and don’t function as a training reward. Chews, however, maintain potency at room temperature, deliver pre-measured doses, and serve as a behavioral tool. The act of chewing itself can be calming for many dogs, releasing endorphins and providing a constructive outlet for nervous energy.
Bioavailability Considerations
Chews must pass through the digestive system, meaning onset time is slower (30-90 minutes) compared to sublingual oils (15-45 minutes). However, the effects typically last longer—4-8 hours versus 2-4 hours for oils—making chews ideal for sustained calm during full-day shows. Look for formulations using nano-emulsified CBD, which increases absorption rates by breaking cannabinoids into microscopic particles.
Key Ingredients to Look For (Beyond CBD)
A premium training chew should read like a functional food label. Active ingredients like L-theanine (an amino acid promoting alpha brain waves associated with relaxed alertness), chamomile (a mild sedative that won’t dull performance), and valerian root (for muscle tension relief) complement CBD’s effects. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives—your show dog’s system is already stressed, and chemical additives can exacerbate inflammation. Organic sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or blueberries provide antioxidants that support overall wellness during travel.
The Protein Source Matters
Since these are training treats, protein content matters. Novel proteins like duck, rabbit, or venison reduce allergy risks compared to common chicken or beef. For dogs on limited-ingredient diets for coat health, ensure the chew’s protein aligns with their nutritional plan. Some handlers prefer vegetarian chews to avoid any dietary conflicts.
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum vs. Isolate: What’s Best for Show Dogs?
This decision critically impacts both efficacy and competition eligibility. Full-spectrum contains all hemp compounds, including up to 0.3% THC. While this maximizes the entourage effect, even trace THC could theoretically trigger a positive on ultra-sensitive drug tests. Broad-spectrum removes THC while retaining other beneficial compounds, offering a middle ground. Isolate is pure CBD, eliminating all risk of THC exposure but potentially requiring higher doses for effect.
Navigating Competition Regulations
The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently prohibits dogs from competing under the influence of any substance that affects performance, but doesn’t specifically test for CBD. However, their Canine Health Foundation is funding CBD research, suggesting future policy evolution. Until regulations clarify, many handlers opt for broad-spectrum or isolate products to eliminate THC risk entirely while still gaining CBD benefits.
The Importance of Third-Party Lab Testing
Never purchase CBD training chews without reviewing the Certificate of Analysis (COA). This document verifies CBD content, confirms THC levels are within legal limits, and screens for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents. For show dogs, COAs also check for mold and mycotoxins that could compromise respiratory health. Reputable companies post batch-specific COAs on their websites; if they don’t, walk away. Look for testing by ISO-accredited labs, which follow the strictest standards.
How to Read a COA for Competition Readiness
Pay attention to the “LoQ” (Limit of Quantification) for THC. A result of “ND” (Not Detected) isn’t enough—ensure the detection limit is sufficiently low (preferably 0.01% or less). Check the cannabinoid profile matches the product’s claims; if it promises 5mg CBD per chew, the COA should confirm this within a 10% variance. Also review the terpene analysis—some terpenes like limonene and linalool have independent calming properties.
Dosage Guidelines: Getting It Right for Your Dog’s Weight and Anxiety Level
CBD dosing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Start with 0.2mg per pound of body weight for mild anxiety, increasing to 0.5mg per pound for severe cases. A 50-pound dog would begin with 10mg CBD, potentially working up to 25mg. Always start low and titrate up every 5-7 days, monitoring your dog’s response. Show dogs require precision—they need enough CBD to take the edge off without appearing “flat” or lethargic to judges. Keep a dosage journal noting timing, amount, and behavioral observations in and out of the ring.
Micro-Dosing Strategies for Multi-Day Shows
For weekend-long events, consider micro-dosing: give 1/4 to 1/3 of the standard dose every 3-4 hours rather than one large dose. This maintains steady blood levels without peaks that could cause temporary sedation. This approach also allows you to adjust based on ring conditions—a crowded, noisy venue might warrant slightly more than a quiet morning session.
Timing: When to Administer for Maximum Effect
Administer the first chew 60-90 minutes before ring time to allow full absorption. For travel anxiety, give one chew 30 minutes before loading into the vehicle. If your dog struggles with crate restlessness at hotels, provide a chew upon arrival to your accommodation. For multi-class days, time additional chews 45 minutes before each entry. Remember that food in the stomach slows absorption but may increase total uptake—experiment during training, not at the show.
Building a Pre-Ring Ritual
Incorporate CBD chews into a consistent pre-show routine: grooming, massage, quiet time in the crate with a chew, then a brief walk. This sequence creates powerful contextual cues that signal “it’s time to be calm and focused,” amplifying the CBD’s effects through classical conditioning. Judges won’t see a drugged dog—they’ll see a confident, well-prepared athlete.
Legal Considerations for Show Dogs and CBD
The regulatory landscape remains murky. While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD federally, individual states may have stricter laws. More importantly, kennel clubs and show-giving bodies set their own policies. The United Kennel Club (UKC) follows similar guidelines to AKC, prohibiting substances that alter performance. Some breed-specific clubs have issued informal statements discouraging CBD use. Always check the premium list for each show, and when in doubt, contact the show secretary directly.
Documentation and Disclosure
Keep detailed records of your CBD product’s COA, purchase receipts, and your veterinarian’s recommendation. While unlikely, if questioned, you can demonstrate you’re using a legal hemp product for therapeutic purposes. Never administer CBD in the grooming area where others might observe and misinterpret your intentions. Discretion protects both your reputation and your dog’s eligibility.
Potential Side Effects and Safety Precautions
CBD is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can occur. The most common include mild drowsiness (usually at higher doses), increased thirst, and temporary changes in appetite. Rarely, dogs may experience diarrhea or elevated liver enzymes. For show dogs, even slight lethargy is problematic. Always trial new products at home, never within two weeks of a major competition. Monitor for drug interactions, particularly if your dog takes NSAIDs, anti-seizure medications, or sedatives.
Pre-Existing Conditions Requiring Caution
Dogs with liver disease require veterinary supervision, as CBD is metabolized through the liver. Pregnant or lactating females should avoid CBD due to limited safety data. If your show dog has a history of low blood pressure, note that CBD can cause a temporary drop. Always inform your veterinarian about CBD use before any anesthesia for procedures like artificial insemination or dental work.
Building a Pre-Show Routine with CBD Chews
A successful routine starts 48 hours before the show. Increase your dog’s regular CBD dose by 25% on travel day to combat the stress of transport and environmental changes. At the hotel, maintain familiar feeding and exercise schedules, incorporating chews at consistent times. The morning of the show, administer the chew during your final grooming session, allowing your dog to associate the calming effects with the primping process. This routine reduces the “stranger in a strange land” feeling that triggers many show dogs’ anxiety.
The 24-Hour Protocol
Day before: Normal dose with dinner. Travel day: 1.25x dose before departure, then normal dose at hotel arrival. Show morning: 1x dose 90 minutes before ring time. Between classes: 1/2 dose if needed, timed 45 minutes before next entry. Post-show: Normal dose to aid recovery. This graduated approach prevents overwhelming your dog’s system while maintaining consistent support.
Training Integration: Using Chews as Positive Reinforcement
Transform CBD administration from supplementation to training tool by using chews to reward calm behavior during ring practice. When your dog holds a stack correctly without fidgeting, offer a chew piece. When they gait calmly past a distraction, another piece follows. This creates a powerful feedback loop: desired behavior → reward → calm feeling → reinforced behavior. Over time, you can phase out the CBD chew and substitute a regular treat, as the behavioral pattern becomes ingrained.
Proofing Calm Behavior at Home
Practice your ring routine in increasingly challenging environments at home: with the vacuum running, while a family member claps, or near a playing television. Administer CBD chews during these proofing sessions so your dog learns that novel stimuli paired with CBD predict rewards and relaxation. This generalizes the calm response to the show environment.
Storage and Shelf Life: Maintaining Potency
CBD degrades with heat, light, and oxygen exposure—exactly what it faces in a car during summer shows. Store chews in an airtight, opaque container in a cooler with ice packs. Most chews remain potent for 12-18 months when properly stored, but heat can reduce effectiveness by 50% in just a few weeks. Check expiration dates and write the opening date on the package. If chews become discolored or develop an off smell, discard them regardless of the date.
Travel Storage Solutions
Invest in a small, insulated medication bag with a thermometer strip. This ensures your chews stay below 70°F even in a hot vehicle. Never leave them in your tack box in the sun. For air travel, carry them in your personal item, not checked luggage, to avoid temperature extremes and potential loss.
Red Flags: What to Avoid in CBD Training Chews
Beware of products making medical claims like “cures anxiety” or “guaranteed to calm.” These violate FDA regulations and indicate questionable ethics. Avoid chews with vague “proprietary blends” that don’t disclose individual ingredient amounts. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs. Soy, corn, and wheat fillers can trigger allergies that affect coat quality. Products sourced from outside the USA may contain contaminants or inaccurate CBD levels. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is—quality CBD extraction is expensive.
Marketing Gimmicks vs. Real Science
“Nano-CBD” and “water-soluble CBD” are legitimate technologies, but some brands use these terms without actual nano-emulsification. Verify claims through the COA and company transparency. Celebrity endorsements mean nothing without third-party testing. “Veterinarian-formulated” should include the formulator’s credentials and contact information. Trust brands that invest in peer-reviewed research, not just flashy packaging.
Working with Your Veterinarian: A Collaborative Approach
Your veterinarian should be your partner in this journey, not an adversary. Schedule a consultation specifically about CBD, bringing the product’s COA and ingredient list. Ask for liver function baseline tests before starting and recheck after 30 days of use. Some veterinary schools now offer cannabis counseling services. If your vet is dismissive due to lack of knowledge, seek a second opinion from a holistic or integrative veterinary practitioner. Document all conversations for your records.
Questions to Ask Your Vet
Is my dog a good candidate for CBD based on their health history? What dosage do you recommend given my dog’s liver function? Are there any competition-specific concerns for our breed or venue? How should I adjust dosing for travel versus home? What signs of intolerance should I watch for? Can you recommend reputable brands based on your clinical experience?
Long-Term Use: Building Consistency Without Dependence
CBD doesn’t create physical dependency, but psychological habituation can occur if your dog only receives chews at shows. To prevent this, incorporate them into your weekly training routine at home, not just before competitions. Some handlers use a “maintenance dose” daily during show season, then taper to as-needed during the off-season. This prevents tolerance buildup and keeps costs manageable. Rotate between two different broad-spectrum formulations every few months to prevent your dog’s system from becoming too accustomed to a single terpene profile.
Seasonal Adjustment Strategies
During heavy show seasons (spring and fall), maintain consistent daily dosing to support your dog’s stress resilience. In winter, when shows are fewer, switch to situational dosing only for grooming training or vet visits. This pulsing approach gives your dog’s ECS a natural reset period while maintaining the therapeutic relationship with the chew as a calming cue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will CBD make my show dog “high” or affect performance? No, CBD is non-intoxicating. Unlike THC, it doesn’t produce euphoria or impair coordination. Quality CBD training chews should enhance focus by reducing anxiety, not create sedation. However, overdosing can cause temporary lethargy, which is why precision dosing and pre-show trials are essential.
How long before a show should I give the chew? Administer the chew 60-90 minutes before ring time for optimal effect. For travel anxiety, give it 30 minutes before departure. Always test timing during practice sessions at home to determine your individual dog’s absorption rate, which can vary based on metabolism and stomach contents.
Can CBD cause my dog to fail a drug test? While most show venues don’t test for CBD, full-spectrum products contain trace THC that could theoretically trigger ultra-sensitive tests. To eliminate risk, use broad-spectrum or isolate formulations. Always request a COA showing THC levels below 0.01% or non-detectable at that threshold.
What’s the difference between CBD and THC in these products? CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both cannabinoids from hemp, but THC is psychoactive while CBD is not. Legal hemp products must contain less than 0.3% THC. CBD provides calming benefits without intoxication, making it suitable for performance dogs who need mental clarity.
Are there breed-specific considerations? Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs) may absorb CBD differently due to unique metabolism. High-drive breeds like Malinois might require higher doses for the same calming effect. Breeds prone to liver shunts (Yorkies, Cairn Terriers) need veterinary clearance before use. Always consider your breed’s specific health predispositions.
Can I use CBD chews with other medications? CBD can interact with drugs metabolized by the liver’s cytochrome P450 enzyme system, including some NSAIDs, anti-seizure medications, and steroids. Never combine CBD with sedatives. Always consult your veterinarian about potential interactions with your dog’s specific medication regimen.
How do I know if the dosage is working? Observe subtle signs: reduced pacing, more relaxed ear carriage, decreased lip licking, and willingness to take bait. Your dog should appear engaged but not hypervigilant. Keep a video diary of pre- and post-CBD behavior to objectively assess changes. If you see no improvement after two weeks at a therapeutic dose, the product may be ineffective.
Will my dog become dependent on CBD? CBD doesn’t cause physical addiction. However, dogs can develop a psychological association between the chew and calm feelings. This is actually beneficial when managed correctly—use it consistently during training so the ritual itself becomes calming, allowing you to eventually reduce the actual CBD dose while maintaining the routine.
What if my dog has food allergies? Choose chews with limited, novel ingredients. Many quality products are grain-free and use single protein sources. Review the full ingredient list for hidden allergens like chicken fat or beef liver flavoring. Consider vegetarian chews if protein allergies are severe, and always introduce new products gradually while monitoring for skin or digestive reactions.
Are there age restrictions for CBD training chews? Most veterinarians recommend waiting until a dog is at least 12 months old before introducing CBD, as the endocannabinoid system is still developing in puppies. For senior dogs, start with lower doses due to potentially slower metabolism. Always adjust for life stage and consult your vet before starting puppies or geriatric dogs on any supplementation.