21 Relaxing Homemade CBD Dog Treats for Stress Relief

This is the quintessential dog treat recipe, and for good reason! Most dogs go wild for peanut butter, and pumpkin is fantastic for their digestive health. It’s a simple, effective, and delicious way to introduce your dog to CBD.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure, no added sugar)
• 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs until well combined.
3. Stir in your dog’s dose of CBD oil. Make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
4. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon, mixing until a stiff dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring it all together.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is perfect for first-time CBD treat bakers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to get wrong, making it an ideal starting point for any pet parent.

In a hurry? These no-bake treats are a lifesaver. Oats provide plenty of fiber, and coconut oil is great for a dog’s skin and coat. They come together in minutes and are perfect for a quick calming snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey (optional, for binding)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients: rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, melted coconut oil, and CBD oil.
2. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be sticky.
3. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
4. Roll the balls in the shredded coconut to coat them.
5. Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for busy pet owners or those who aren’t confident bakers. These are also great for warmer months when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Perfect for a hot day or for a dog that needs a long-lasting treat to soothe them. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, and chamomile is a well-known natural relaxant, creating a double-dose of calm.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt or kefir
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 tablespoon of brewed (and cooled) chamomile tea
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool completely.
2. In a blender, combine the yogurt, blueberries, cooled chamomile tea, and CBD oil.
3. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into silicone molds (paw or bone shapes are fun!) or an ice cube tray.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
6. Pop out a pupsicle when your dog needs to chill out.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for dogs who get over-excited or anxious in the summer. The licking action is also inherently calming for many dogs.

For the meat-loving pup, this jerky-style treat is a winner. Sweet potato provides vitamins and fiber, while lean ground turkey offers a high-value protein source. This is a savory, chewy treat they’ll work hard for.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (to act as a binder)
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, usually around 175-200°F (80-95°C).
2. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the ground turkey, mashed sweet potato, rolled oats, and CBD oil.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the mixture thinly and evenly across the sheet, about 1/8-inch thick.
4. Bake for 2-3 hours. Then, flip the mixture over (you may need another sheet of parchment paper to help) and bake for another 2-3 hours, or until it’s dry and leathery.
5. Let it cool completely. Once cool, you can break it or cut it into jerky-like strips.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Best for patient owners who want to create a high-value, meaty treat. It’s an excellent choice for dogs with grain sensitivities who prefer savory flavors.

Applesauce provides natural sweetness and fiber, while a tiny pinch of ginger can help soothe an upset or anxious tummy. These crunchy biscuits have a delightful aroma and a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the applesauce, egg, water, ginger, and CBD oil.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Cut into shapes and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until firm and golden.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great option for dogs who experience travel anxiety or have sensitive stomachs, as the ginger provides extra tummy-soothing benefits alongside the CBD.

Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids from both salmon and flaxseed, these treats are incredible for skin, coat, and joint health, in addition to their calming properties. A true superfood snack!

Ingredients:

• 1 can (6 oz) of salmon, drained
• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1 egg
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, combine the salmon, coconut flour, ground flaxseed, egg, and CBD oil.
3. Pulse until a thick dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
4. Roll the dough into small balls or press it into a small, parchment-lined pan and score it into squares.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm.
6. Let them cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate treat for dogs with allergies, skin issues, or joint discomfort. The added benefits of Omega-3s make this a powerhouse of wellness.

Some dogs, especially seniors, prefer a softer chew. This recipe uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a wonderfully soft and chewy cookie that’s gentle on the teeth.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1 egg
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, peanut butter, egg, and CBD oil.
3. Stir in the rolled oats until just combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15 minutes. The cookies will be soft, not crunchy.
6. Let them cool before serving. Store in the refrigerator.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for senior dogs, puppies, or any pup who struggles with hard biscuits. The simple, gentle ingredients are also great for sensitive systems.

This recipe targets both anxiety and inflammation. Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, and turmeric is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory, making these treats ideal for older dogs with achy joints.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• A pinch of black pepper (to aid turmeric absorption)
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the grated carrots, eggs, turmeric, black pepper, and CBD oil.
3. Gradually mix in the oat flour until a workable dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and cut it into desired shapes.
5. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes.
6. Cool completely. These will be semi-chewy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for arthritic or senior dogs who need support for both their mind and body. The combination of CBD and turmeric is a powerful one-two punch against discomfort.

Address nervous energy and doggy breath at the same time! The savory beef broth is irresistible, while fresh parsley works as a natural breath freshener.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk together the beef broth, parsley, egg, oil, and CBD oil.
3. Slowly add the flour to form a stiff dough.
4. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
5. Bake for 20 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet until hard.
6. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A multi-tasking treat that’s perfect for a pre-cuddle calming snack. If your dog’s anxious panting comes with less-than-fresh breath, this is the recipe for you.

It doesn’t get any simpler than this. When you’re short on time and ingredients, this recipe comes to the rescue. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or multiple food allergies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oat flour (simply blend rolled oats in a blender)
• 1/2 cup baby food puree (like sweet potato, carrot, or beef)
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the oat flour, baby food puree, and CBD oil. The dough will be thick.
3. Press the dough into a small parchment-lined pan or roll and cut out shapes.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Let them cool. The texture will depend on the baby food used.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The go-to recipe for pet owners dealing with allergies or for when the pantry is bare. Using a high-quality, single-ingredient baby food ensures a pure and simple treat.

Let’s be honest, what dog can resist cheese and bacon? This is the ultimate high-value, indulgent treat for when your pup needs some serious comfort and distraction.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cheese, and crumbled bacon.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and CBD oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix to form a dough.
5. Roll out thin on a floured surface and cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is your ‘break in case of emergency’ treat. Perfect for severe anxiety triggers like fireworks or thunderstorms, where you need a high-value reward to redirect their focus.

Lavender is known for its calming aromatherapeutic properties. A tiny amount of culinary lavender can lend a wonderfully relaxing scent and flavor to these special treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oat flour
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Ensure your lavender is culinary grade and crush it lightly with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to release its aroma.
3. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes. Flower shapes are a nice touch!
5. Bake for 15 minutes, until firm.
6. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A gourmet option for the discerning pup. Best for creating a full sensory calming experience, especially before bedtime or a planned separation.

Another fantastic summer option! Watermelon is hydrating and refreshing, while mint can help with digestion and freshen breath. These are incredibly easy to make and serve.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed
• A few fresh mint leaves (about 5-6)
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Place the watermelon cubes, mint leaves, and CBD oil in a blender.
2. Blend until it becomes a smooth liquid.
3. Pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
4. Freeze until solid (at least 4 hours).

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect, guilt-free treat for dogs who need to cool down and calm down on a hot day. Ideal for post-walk relaxation in the summer.

Don’t knock it ’til you try it! Sardines are an omega-3 powerhouse, and dogs typically love the fishy taste. Paired with sweet potato, these soft-baked squares are a nutrient-dense calming snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the sardines (with the water from the can) with the sweet potato, egg, and CBD oil.
3. Stir in the oat flour until a thick, sticky dough forms.
4. Press the dough into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the center is firm.
6. Let cool in the pan, then lift out and cut into squares.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the dog that loves all things fishy. This is a fantastic ‘brain food’ treat that supports cognitive function as well as providing a sense of calm.

A festive treat perfect for the stressful holiday season. Cranberries are great for urinary tract health, and the warm spices make these feel extra special.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, unsweetened
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out and cut with holiday-themed cookie cutters (like a star or tree).
4. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-20 minutes.
5. Cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect recipe to bake during the holidays when guests, travel, and routine changes can cause extra anxiety for your pup.

A unique, gut-friendly treat. Spirulina is a blue-green algae packed with nutrients, while kefir is a probiotic powerhouse. These gelatin-based treats are wiggly, fun, and great for digestion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cup plain kefir
• 1 teaspoon spirulina powder
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Gently warm half of the broth in a small saucepan (do not boil).
2. Sprinkle the gelatin over the warm broth and whisk until it’s completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the remaining cold broth to cool it down.
4. Whisk in the kefir, spirulina powder, and CBD oil until smooth.
5. Pour into silicone molds and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The gut-brain connection is strong, and supporting digestive health can have a positive impact on anxiety levels.

A frozen take on the classic ‘bland diet’ for upset tummies. This is incredibly gentle and soothing for a dog feeling out of sorts, both physically and mentally.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken (unseasoned)
• 1/2 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, chicken broth, and CBD oil.
2. Blend until it forms a thick, porridge-like consistency.
3. Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or molds.
4. Freeze until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The best choice when your dog is feeling anxious and also has an upset stomach. It’s a comforting, easy-to-digest treat that won’t cause further GI issues.

A plant-based option for dogs with meat protein allergies. Chickpea flour (gram flour) is a great gluten-free, high-protein alternative to traditional flours.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups chickpea flour
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a ‘cheesy’ flavor)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients and mix to form a dough. Add more water if needed.
3. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper.
4. Cut into shapes and place on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A necessary recipe for dogs on a limited diet or those with poultry/beef allergies. It proves that plant-based can still be delicious and calming.

Liver is like gold to most dogs. It’s incredibly nutrient-dense and highly enticing. These treats are perfect for training or for getting the attention of a highly-stressed dog.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb chicken or beef liver
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the liver, oats, egg, and CBD oil. Blend until it becomes a thick paste.
3. Spread the mixture thinly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until it’s cooked through and firm like a brownie.
5. Let it cool completely, then cut into small, bite-sized training treats.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

When you need the most powerful distraction, this is it. The intense flavor of liver can cut through a high-stress situation and help you regain your dog’s focus.

These mini muffins are grain-free, packed with antioxidants from blackberries, and have a wonderfully soft, cakey texture. A special treat for a special pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, eggs, and melted coconut oil. Coconut flour is very absorbent, so the batter will be thick.
3. Whisk in the CBD oil.
4. Gently fold in the blackberries.
5. Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A wonderful, grain-free ‘cupcake’ for celebrating small victories or for comforting a dog who loves soft, cake-like textures.

This is a two-part recipe designed as a relaxing bedtime ritual. A simple cookie paired with a soothing, warm ‘milk’ made from goat’s milk, which is easier for dogs to digest than cow’s milk.

Cookie Ingredients:

• 1 cup oat flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

‘Milk’ Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup warm goat’s milk (or water/broth if sensitive)
• Your dog’s recommended dose of high-quality CBD oil

Instructions:

1. For the cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix oat flour and applesauce to form a dough. Roll thin, cut into small circles, and bake for 10-15 minutes until crisp. Let cool.
2. For the ‘milk’: Gently warm the goat’s milk. It should be warm, not hot.
3. Stir your dog’s dose of CBD oil into the warm milk until fully incorporated.
4. Serve a few cookies alongside the small bowl of calming CBD milk as a relaxing bedtime snack.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs with nighttime anxiety or those who have trouble settling down before bed. The ritual of the warm milk and cookies can be incredibly comforting.

Baking for your pup is fun, but when you’re adding a supplement like CBD, it’s important to be informed. Here are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your homemade treats are safe, effective, and delicious.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil

The CBD market can be overwhelming, but quality is paramount. Look for a CBD oil that is:

• Specifically for Pets: These are formulated without ingredients that are harmful to dogs and are usually flavored to be more palatable.
• Third-Party Lab Tested: This is non-negotiable. A reputable company will provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that shows the product is free from heavy metals, pesticides, and confirms its cannabinoid content.
• THC-Free or Broad-Spectrum: Dogs are very sensitive to THC. Choose a broad-spectrum oil (which has other beneficial cannabinoids but THC is removed) or a CBD isolate to be safe. Avoid full-spectrum products unless specifically recommended by your vet.
• Organic: Opt for CBD derived from organically grown hemp to avoid exposure to pesticides.

A Note on Dosing

Dosing is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your dog’s weight, metabolism, and the severity of their anxiety. The golden rule is ‘start low and go slow.’

Most pet CBD products will have a recommended starting dose on the label. When adding it to a batch of treats, calculate the total CBD for the entire recipe. For example, if the recipe makes 30 treats and your dog’s dose is 5mg, you would add 150mg of CBD to the entire batch, so each treat contains roughly 5mg. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement to determine the best approach for your individual dog.

Baking with CBD Oil

Heat can potentially degrade cannabinoids, but studies show that CBD is quite stable up to around 350°F (175°C). Most of our baking recipes stay at or below this temperature. To be extra cautious, you can always choose no-bake recipes or add the CBD oil to a frosting or drizzle after the treats have cooled.

Is CBD safe for all dogs?

While generally considered safe, CBD is not right for every dog. It’s crucial to talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD, especially if they are on other medications or have underlying health conditions like liver or kidney issues. They can help you determine if it’s a safe option and guide you on proper dosing.

How long does it take for homemade CBD treats to work?

When ingested, CBD has to pass through the digestive system. This means it can take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes to see the effects. The duration of the effects typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dog. It’s best to give the treat about an hour before a known stressful event, like leaving the house or an approaching storm.

Can I just use my own human CBD oil for these recipes?

It’s strongly recommended to use a product formulated specifically for pets. Human CBD products can contain THC levels that are unsafe for dogs. They may also contain flavorings, like xylitol, which are extremely toxic to dogs. Always stick to a pet-specific, lab-tested product.

How should I store these homemade treats?

Because they are made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, homemade treats have a shorter shelf life. Baked, crunchy treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. Softer treats or those with meat/dairy should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. All of these recipes are freezer-friendly! You can freeze a batch and just take out a few treats as needed.