A team of French researchers affiliated with Paris Nanterre University, Universite d’Artois, and Unilasalle studied the use of hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in shelter-house dogs to treat anxiety. The study’s findings were published on the Social Science Research Network.

If you have ever visited a dog shelter, then you know firsthand how loud and often chaotic the setting can be. The noise and unfamiliar environment, combined with frequent interactions with strangers, can understandably lead to dogs experiencing anxiety. CBD may be able to help.

“Shelter-housed dogs are chronically exposed to stressors that may compromise their welfare. Although cannabidiol (CBD)-based products are increasingly used to manage canine anxiety, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy remains limited, particularly in stress-exposed populations.” the researchers wrote. “In this double-blind pilot study, 17 shelter dogs with a history of reactive or anxiety-related behaviours were randomised to receive either CBD- and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA)-rich hemp extract (6 ± 1.4 mg/kg/day; n = 7) or placebo (n = 10) for four weeks.”

Researchers assessed the dogs through video recordings, reviewing 48 hours of footage for each subject before administration and after four weeks of the extract or placebo.

Researchers found that there was “no statistically significant product effects” in any of the subjects that were administered the extract, but that “resting increased” among the extract-receiving subjects, and that they exhibited a ‘reduction in locomotion’ activity. There were no observed changes in the placebo group.

“Taken together, these findings suggest a specific calming effect, potentially reflecting reduced nocturnal vigilance and reactivity, rather than generalized sedation. Given the small sample size and substantial inter-individual variability, results warrant cautious interpretation, and larger studies incorporating pharmacokinetic monitoring are needed to confirm these preliminary observations.” the researchers concluded.

According to Grand View Research, “The global CBD pet market size was valued at USD 410.0 million in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 516.3 million in 2026 to USD 3,939.1 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 33.7% from 2026 to 2033.”