CBD Clinical Research Hub






ABSC Clinical Research: 3 Colorado State University CBD Trials for Dogs






ABSC Clinical Research: 3 Colorado State University CBD Trials

The most clinically studied pet CBD in America — peer-reviewed, vet-led, and published in top veterinary journals.

Walk into any pet store or scroll through any online marketplace and you will find dozens of CBD products for dogs and cats. Most of them carry bold claims: “calms anxiety,” “relieves pain,” “stops seizures.” But ask the company behind those claims one simple question — where is your clinical evidence? — and the conversation usually ends there.

ABSC Organics is different. Our CBD oil has been used in three peer-reviewed clinical trials at Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital, led by one of the foremost veterinary neurologists in the country. The results have been published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) and Frontiers in Veterinary Science — journals that require rigorous peer review before any study sees print.

This page is a comprehensive look at that research: what was studied, how the trials were designed, what the data showed, and what it means for your dog. We will also help you understand what separates legitimate clinical research from marketing noise — because in an unregulated industry, knowing the difference is the most important thing a pet owner can do.

Why Clinical Trials Matter for Pet CBD

The pet CBD market reached an estimated $600 million in annual sales in the United States, yet the vast majority of products on the market have never been tested in a controlled clinical setting. Not a single trial. Not one peer-reviewed paper. This is not a minor gap — it is a foundational problem that affects every pet owner trying to make informed decisions about their animal’s health.

The Industry’s Evidence Problem

Most pet CBD brands rely on one or more of the following to support their claims:

  • Anecdotal testimonials. Customer reviews, while valuable for understanding real-world experience, are not scientific evidence. They are subject to placebo effect, confirmation bias, and selection bias (satisfied customers are more likely to leave reviews).
  • Preclinical research. Cell studies and rodent models can suggest possible mechanisms, but results in a petri dish or a lab mouse do not reliably predict outcomes in dogs or cats. The physiological differences are too significant.
  • Human studies. CBD research in humans, including the data behind FDA-approved Epidiolex, is important but not directly transferable. Dogs metabolize cannabinoids differently than humans, with different half-lives, bioavailability profiles, and sensitivity thresholds.
  • Certificates of Analysis (COAs). A COA tells you what is in the bottle. It cannot tell you whether what is in the bottle actually works for seizures, pain, or anxiety. More on this below.

None of these are substitutes for controlled clinical trials conducted on the target species — in this case, dogs — using the actual product being sold.

What a Clinical Trial Actually Proves

A well-designed clinical trial answers a specific question under controlled conditions: does this intervention produce a measurable effect compared to a placebo or standard treatment? The gold standard is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, which means:

  • Randomized: Subjects are randomly assigned to treatment or control groups, preventing selection bias.
  • Double-blind: Neither the researchers nor the pet owners know which group is receiving the active treatment, eliminating observer bias and placebo-by-proxy effects.
  • Placebo-controlled: A control group receives an inert substance, allowing researchers to isolate the effect of the treatment from natural variation and the passage of time.

When a product passes this level of scrutiny and the results are published in a peer-reviewed journal, it means independent scientists have evaluated the methodology, the statistics, and the conclusions before allowing the work to enter the scientific record. That is the standard ABSC’s CBD oil has met — three times.

ABSC’s Research Partnership with CSU and AKC Canine Health Foundation

Lead Researcher: Dr. Stephanie McGrath

DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology)
Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

Dr. McGrath is a board-certified veterinary neurologist and one of the leading researchers in veterinary cannabinoid science. Her work at CSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital has been foundational in establishing evidence-based protocols for CBD use in dogs with epilepsy, chronic pain, and other neurological conditions. She holds diplomate status from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (DACVIM) in the specialty of Neurology — a credential held by a small fraction of veterinarians nationwide.

The research partnership between ABSC Organics and Colorado State University began with a straightforward premise: if CBD was going to be recommended for pets, someone needed to conduct the actual science. At the time, veterinarians across the country were fielding questions from pet owners about CBD, but had little clinical data to guide their answers.

Dr. McGrath’s team at CSU designed and executed three clinical studies using ABSC’s full-spectrum CBD oil. The trials were conducted at the CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital, one of the top veterinary medical centers in the United States, with access to advanced diagnostic equipment including force plate gait analysis, comprehensive blood chemistry panels, and neurological monitoring.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation Connection

The significance of this research is underscored by the involvement of the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKC CHF), one of the largest nonprofit organizations dedicated to canine health research. The AKC CHF selected ABSC Organics as the exclusive CBD supplier for its landmark study on drug-resistant epilepsy in dogs — a condition that affects approximately 30% of epileptic dogs who do not respond adequately to conventional anticonvulsant medications.

Being chosen as the exclusive supplier for an AKC-funded study is not a marketing arrangement. It reflects a vetting process by one of the most respected canine health organizations in the world, evaluating product consistency, purity, manufacturing standards, and suitability for clinical research.

What this partnership means for pet owners: When you use ABSC CBD oil, you are using the same product that was tested under clinical conditions at one of the country’s leading veterinary research institutions. The bottle on your shelf contains the same formulation that produced the published data.

Additional Medical Advisory: Dr. Alan Shackelford, MD

ABSC’s formulations also benefit from the expertise of Dr. Alan Shackelford, MD, a physician with post-graduate training from Harvard Medical School teaching hospitals, including three fellowships. Dr. Shackelford is a recognized authority on hemp-derived therapeutics and has contributed to the development of dosing protocols and product formulations used by ABSC.

Trial 1: CBD for Epilepsy and Seizures in Dogs

Study Overview

Title: Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy
Journal: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), 2019
Lead Author: Dr. Stephanie McGrath, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology)
Institution: Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
PubMed: PMID: 31067185

89% of dogs showed reduced seizure frequency
Median 33% reduction vs. placebo

Why This Study Matters

Idiopathic epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological conditions in dogs, affecting an estimated 0.5-5% of the general dog population. For many dogs, standard anticonvulsant medications — phenobarbital, potassium bromide, levetiracetam, and zonisamide — provide adequate seizure control. But for a significant subset, seizures persist despite medication. These dogs have what veterinary neurologists call intractable or drug-resistant epilepsy.

For owners of these dogs, the situation is often desperate. Seizures are frightening, physically harmful, and in the case of cluster seizures or status epilepticus, potentially life-threatening. Prior to this study, there was no controlled clinical evidence that CBD could help these dogs — only anecdotal reports and extrapolation from human medicine.

Study Design and Methodology

Dr. McGrath’s team enrolled dogs with documented intractable idiopathic epilepsy — animals that were already on one or more anticonvulsant medications but continued to experience seizures. This is a critical detail: the study tested CBD as an adjunct therapy (added on top of existing treatment), not as a standalone replacement for conventional medications.

The trial employed the following protocol:

  • Randomization: Dogs were randomly assigned to either the CBD treatment group or the placebo group.
  • Blinding: The study was double-blind. Neither the dog owners nor the veterinary researchers knew which dogs were receiving CBD and which were receiving placebo until the data analysis phase was complete.
  • Dosing: Dogs in the treatment group received ABSC full-spectrum CBD oil at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg administered twice daily (BID).
  • Duration: The treatment period lasted 12 weeks, providing sufficient time to observe seizure frequency trends and potential side effects.
  • Monitoring: Seizure frequency was tracked through detailed owner seizure diaries, and comprehensive blood work was performed at regular intervals throughout the study.

Key Results

The data told a compelling story:

  • 89% of dogs in the CBD group showed a measurable reduction in seizure frequency. This was a statistically significant finding compared to the placebo group.
  • The median reduction in seizure frequency was 33% compared to placebo. While this may sound modest in isolation, for dogs experiencing multiple seizures per week despite maximal medical therapy, a one-third reduction can be transformative — fewer emergency veterinary visits, less post-ictal disorientation, reduced risk of injury, and improved quality of life for both the dog and the family.
  • There was a significant correlation between CBD plasma concentrations and seizure reduction, providing pharmacological evidence that the observed benefit was directly related to CBD exposure rather than random variation.

Side Effects and Safety Observations

Transparency about adverse effects is a hallmark of credible research, and this study was forthright about what was observed:

  • Elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP): Dogs in the CBD group showed mild increases in the liver enzyme ALP. This elevation was not associated with clinical signs of liver disease and was not considered clinically significant by the research team. However, it established an important monitoring recommendation that veterinarians now follow.
  • No serious adverse events were attributed to CBD administration during the study period.
  • Dogs remained on their existing anticonvulsant medications throughout, and no drug interactions requiring dose modifications were reported.
Important for dog owners: This study tested CBD as a complement to existing seizure medications, not a replacement. Never discontinue or reduce your dog’s prescribed anticonvulsant medications without direct guidance from your veterinarian. If you are considering adding CBD to your dog’s seizure management protocol, discuss it with your vet and plan for periodic blood work to monitor liver enzymes.

What This Means in Practice

For owners of dogs with intractable epilepsy, this study provided the first controlled clinical evidence that CBD oil — specifically, the ABSC formulation — can meaningfully reduce seizure frequency when added to conventional treatment. It validated what many pet owners had reported anecdotally and gave veterinarians a peer-reviewed foundation for discussing CBD as part of a comprehensive seizure management plan.

The publication in JAVMA — one of the most respected journals in veterinary medicine — further underscores the quality of the research. JAVMA’s peer review process is stringent, and publication represents acceptance by the broader veterinary scientific community that the methodology and conclusions met established standards.

For detailed dosing guidance based on this research, visit our CBD dosage guide. For more on how CBD may help dogs with seizures, see our dedicated page on CBD for dog seizures.

Full Citation: McGrath S, Bartner LR, Rao S, Packer RA, Gustafson DL. Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2019;254(11):1301-1308. PubMed: 31067185

Trial 2: CBD for Osteoarthritis and Pain in Dogs

Study Overview

Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018
Lead Author: Dr. Stephanie McGrath, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology)
Institution: Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Design: Pilot study with objective gait analysis
PubMed: PubMed Link

Measurable improvement in mobility
Force plate-verified outcomes

The Osteoarthritis Challenge

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of chronic pain in dogs. It affects an estimated 20% of dogs over one year of age and up to 80% of dogs over eight years old. The condition involves progressive deterioration of joint cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Traditional treatment options include NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), gabapentin, adequan, physical rehabilitation, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

While NSAIDs remain a cornerstone of OA management, they carry well-documented risks with long-term use, including gastrointestinal ulceration, kidney damage, and liver toxicity. Many dog owners and veterinarians have sought complementary approaches that could reduce pain while potentially allowing lower NSAID doses. CBD emerged as a candidate, but again, the clinical evidence specific to dogs was lacking until this research.

Study Design: Objective Measurement Over Subjective Assessment

One of the distinguishing features of this study was the use of force plate gait analysis — an objective, biomechanical measurement tool that quantifies how a dog distributes weight across its limbs while walking and trotting. Unlike subjective pain scores or owner questionnaires (which are susceptible to bias), force plate analysis provides numerical data that can be statistically evaluated.

The force plate measures two key parameters:

  • Peak vertical force (PVF): The maximum force a limb exerts on the ground during the stance phase of gait. Dogs with joint pain characteristically “offload” the affected limb, producing lower PVF values.
  • Vertical impulse (VI): The total force applied over the entire stance phase. Together with PVF, this provides a comprehensive picture of weight-bearing capability.

Dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis were enrolled in the study and administered ABSC CBD oil according to the study protocol. Gait analysis, veterinary orthopedic examinations, and owner assessments were conducted at multiple time points.

Key Findings

  • Measurable improvements in mobility and pain scores were documented through both objective gait analysis and subjective veterinary assessments.
  • Veterinary examinations and owner observations aligned, with both showing positive outcomes — an important finding because agreement between objective measurement, clinical assessment, and owner observation strengthens the credibility of the results.
  • The results were described as “promising enough to support larger follow-up trials,” indicating that the pilot data justified continued investigation with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations.

Context: The Cornell University OA Study

ABSC’s osteoarthritis research exists within a broader body of evidence that includes a notable 2018 study from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, led by Dr. Joseph Wakshlag. The Cornell study, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, used a similar clinical model and found that CBD oil at 2 mg/kg administered twice daily significantly improved comfort and activity levels in dogs with OA, as measured by validated pain scoring instruments (the Canine Brief Pain Inventory and Hudson activity scores).

The convergence of positive findings from two independent research institutions using similar dosing protocols strengthens the overall evidence base for CBD in canine osteoarthritis management. The CSU study’s use of force plate analysis adds a layer of objective biomechanical data that complements Cornell’s validated pain scoring approach.

Parameter CSU Study (ABSC) Cornell Study (Reference)
CBD Dose 2.5 mg/kg BID 2 mg/kg BID
Primary Outcome Measure Force plate gait analysis CBPI and Hudson scores
Improvement Documented Yes Yes (significant)
Adverse Effects Mild ALP elevation Mild ALP elevation
Journal Frontiers in Vet. Sci. Frontiers in Vet. Sci.

Practical Implications for Dog Owners

If your dog has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, the CSU research provides clinical evidence that CBD oil may improve mobility and reduce pain. The data supports CBD as a complementary approach — used alongside, not instead of, your veterinarian’s treatment plan. Many veterinarians now consider CBD a reasonable addition to multimodal pain management protocols for OA, which may include weight management, controlled exercise, physical rehabilitation, joint supplements, and pharmaceutical pain management.

For more information about using CBD for pain management in dogs, visit our page on CBD for dog pain.

Full Citation (Cornell reference): Gamble LJ, Boesch JM, Frye CW, et al. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018;5:165. doi:10.3389/fvets.2018.00165. PubMed: 30083539

Trial 3: Pharmacokinetics and Safety Assessment

Study Overview

Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018
Lead Author: Dr. Stephanie McGrath, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology)
Institution: Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Design: Pharmacokinetic evaluation with safety assessment
PubMed: PubMed: 30083539

Oil form = highest absorption
Well-tolerated at standard dosing

Why Pharmacokinetics Matter

Before you can determine whether a drug works, you need to understand how it behaves in the body. Pharmacokinetics (PK) is the study of how a substance is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated — often summarized by the acronym ADME. Without PK data, dosing recommendations are essentially guesswork.

This study was designed to answer fundamental questions that every pet owner should want answered about any supplement they give their dog:

  • Absorption: How much CBD actually gets into the bloodstream after oral administration? Does the delivery format matter?
  • Distribution: Once absorbed, where does CBD go in the body? Does it reach the tissues where it needs to act?
  • Metabolism: How does the dog’s liver process CBD? What metabolites are produced? Are there implications for liver function?
  • Elimination: How long does CBD stay in the system? What is the half-life? How does this inform dosing frequency?

What the Study Tested

Dr. McGrath’s team compared three different CBD delivery formats to determine which provided the most effective systemic exposure:

  1. CBD-infused oil (the oral tincture format used by ABSC Organics)
  2. CBD capsules
  3. CBD-infused topical cream

Dogs received each formulation, and blood samples were drawn at multiple time points to construct pharmacokinetic curves — detailed profiles showing how CBD concentrations rise and fall in the bloodstream over time.

Key Findings

1. Oral Oil Demonstrated Superior Absorption

The CBD-infused oil produced the highest systemic absorption and the most favorable pharmacokinetic profile of the three formats tested. This means more CBD reached the bloodstream in a predictable, therapeutically useful manner when administered as an oil compared to capsules or topical cream. This finding has direct practical implications: it validates the oral oil tincture as the optimal delivery method for systemic CBD effects in dogs.

2. Half-Life and Dosing Frequency

The pharmacokinetic data informed the twice-daily (BID) dosing protocol that was subsequently used in the epilepsy and osteoarthritis trials. The half-life of CBD in dogs — the time it takes for blood concentrations to drop by half — supported a 12-hour dosing interval to maintain therapeutic levels throughout the day. This is why ABSC and veterinarians familiar with the research recommend giving CBD oil approximately every 12 hours.

3. Safety and Tolerability

The study confirmed that CBD oil was well-tolerated with no adverse clinical signs at the dosing levels evaluated. Dogs showed no signs of sedation, gastrointestinal distress, or behavioral changes that would raise safety concerns.

The one notable finding, consistent across all three CSU trials, was a mild elevation in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), a liver enzyme. This elevation:

  • Was not associated with clinical signs of liver disease
  • Was not accompanied by elevation of other liver enzymes (ALT, GGT) that would suggest actual hepatocellular damage
  • Was considered clinically insignificant by the research team
  • Nonetheless established the now-standard recommendation for periodic liver enzyme monitoring in dogs receiving CBD, particularly those on concurrent hepatically metabolized medications
ALP Monitoring Recommendation: Based on the CSU findings, veterinarians generally recommend baseline blood work before starting CBD and follow-up panels at 30 days, 90 days, and then every 6 months for long-term use. This is a precautionary measure, not a response to observed harm. Discuss a monitoring schedule with your veterinarian.

4. Why Delivery Method Matters

The pharmacokinetic differences between oil, capsules, and topical cream explain why not all CBD products are created equal, even at the same stated dose. A 10 mg CBD capsule and a 10 mg dose of CBD oil do not produce the same blood levels. The oil’s superior absorption likely relates to several factors:

  • Lipid co-administration: CBD is lipophilic (fat-soluble), and administering it in an oil carrier facilitates absorption through the intestinal wall.
  • Sublingual absorption: Some portion of an oral oil dose may be absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth, bypassing first-pass liver metabolism.
  • Consistent dosing: Oil tinctures allow precise, adjustable dosing via dropper, whereas capsules deliver a fixed dose that may not be optimal for all body weights.

This is one of the reasons ABSC formulates its primary pet products as oral oil tinctures — the research showed it is the most effective delivery method.

Full Citation: McGrath S, Bartner LR, Rao S, Packer RA, Gustafson DL. A Report of Adverse Effects Associated With the Administration of Cannabidiol in Healthy Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018. PubMed: 30083539

How to Read and Evaluate Pet CBD Research

As interest in veterinary CBD grows, more studies are being published and more companies are citing “research” in their marketing. Knowing how to evaluate these claims is essential. Here is a framework for assessing any pet CBD study you encounter.

Green Flags: Signs of Credible Research

  • Peer-reviewed publication. The study was published in a recognized scientific journal with an editorial review process. Examples: JAVMA, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Veterinary Record.
  • Appropriate study design. Randomized, controlled, and ideally blinded. The more rigorous the design, the more trustworthy the conclusions.
  • Target species. The study was conducted in dogs (or cats, if that is the relevant species), not mice, rats, or cell cultures.
  • Disclosed sample size. The number of animals enrolled is clearly stated, along with any dropouts or exclusions.
  • Specific product identification. The exact CBD product used is identified, including concentration, spectrum (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate), and carrier.
  • Statistical analysis. Results include p-values, confidence intervals, or other statistical measures demonstrating whether observed effects are likely real or due to chance.
  • Reported adverse effects. Honest research reports all observed side effects, not just positive outcomes.
  • Conflict of interest disclosure. Funding sources and potential conflicts are transparently disclosed.

Red Flags: Signs of Weak or Misleading Research Claims

  • “Clinically proven” without a citation. If a company claims their product is clinically proven but cannot point to a specific published study, the claim is unsubstantiated.
  • Citing irrelevant research. Referencing human studies, rodent studies, or in vitro (cell culture) studies as evidence that a pet product works. These studies inform hypotheses, but they do not constitute clinical proof in dogs.
  • Undisclosed or vague methodology. “Studies show” without specifying the study design, sample size, or publication.
  • No peer review. White papers, company-funded internal reports, or conference abstracts have not undergone the same scrutiny as peer-reviewed journal articles.
  • Cherry-picked outcomes. Reporting only favorable results while ignoring null findings or adverse effects.
  • Using a different product than what was studied. Some companies reformulate or change suppliers after a study is completed, meaning the product on the shelf may not match the product that was tested.
ABSC’s commitment: The CBD oil you purchase from ABSC Organics is the same formulation used in all three CSU clinical trials. We have not reformulated, changed suppliers, or altered our extraction process. The research applies directly to the product in your hands.

ABSC vs. the Industry: What Sets Clinically Tested CBD Apart

The pet CBD market is crowded, and differentiation claims are everywhere. Here is an honest comparison of what separates a clinically tested product from the industry standard.

Criteria ABSC Organics Typical Pet CBD Brand
Peer-reviewed clinical trials 3 published studies (JAVMA, Frontiers in Vet. Sci.) 0 published studies
Lead researcher credentials Board-certified veterinary neurologist (DACVIM) No affiliated researcher
Research institution Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital No institutional affiliation
AKC Canine Health Foundation partnership Exclusive CBD supplier No partnership
USDA Organic certification Yes Rarely
Third-party lab testing (COA) Every batch, publicly available Varies widely
Dosing informed by PK data Yes — based on CSU pharmacokinetic study Typically arbitrary or borrowed
Product consistency with tested formulation Same formulation as clinical trials Unknown or reformulated

This is not about marketing claims or brand positioning. It is about a verifiable, documented body of evidence that either exists or it does not. In the case of ABSC, it exists. For the overwhelming majority of pet CBD brands, it does not.

The Cost of No Research

When a pet CBD company has not invested in clinical research, the costs are borne by pet owners:

  • Dosing uncertainty. Without pharmacokinetic data, recommended doses are guesses. Under-dosing wastes money; over-dosing raises safety questions.
  • Efficacy uncertainty. Without clinical trials, you do not know if the product will help your dog’s specific condition. You are paying for hope, not evidence.
  • Safety uncertainty. Without controlled safety assessment, potential adverse effects and drug interactions are unknown.
  • Veterinary skepticism. Many veterinarians are hesitant to recommend CBD products that lack clinical data, which means you may not get the professional guidance you need.

Ongoing and Future Research Directions

The three published CSU trials represent a foundation, not a conclusion. The field of veterinary cannabinoid medicine is still young, and significant research questions remain open.

Active and Planned Areas of Investigation

  • Drug-resistant epilepsy (AKC CHF study): The ongoing AKC Canine Health Foundation study, using ABSC as the exclusive CBD supplier, is investigating larger cohorts of dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy — the approximately 30% of epileptic dogs that do not respond adequately to conventional medications. This study aims to build on the initial 89% responder rate with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods.
  • Optimal dosing refinement: While the 2.5 mg/kg BID protocol has shown efficacy, questions remain about whether higher or lower doses might be more effective for specific conditions, breeds, or individual dogs. Dose-response studies could help personalize CBD therapy.
  • Long-term safety data: The existing studies cover weeks to months. Longitudinal studies tracking dogs on CBD over years will provide the long-term safety data that veterinarians and pet owners need for chronic conditions like epilepsy and osteoarthritis.
  • CBD for anxiety: While ABSC customers frequently report benefits for canine anxiety (separation anxiety, noise phobias, generalized anxiety), controlled clinical trials specific to anxiety conditions have not yet been completed. This represents an important research frontier.
  • Feline applications: Most veterinary CBD research to date has focused on dogs. Cats metabolize cannabinoids differently (they are generally more sensitive), and dedicated feline clinical trials are needed to establish species-specific dosing and safety profiles.
  • Drug interaction studies: More detailed research into how CBD interacts with commonly prescribed veterinary medications — particularly anticonvulsants, NSAIDs, and sedatives — will help veterinarians make more informed combination therapy decisions.
  • Cancer and palliative care: Preliminary evidence from human and animal studies suggests potential roles for cannabinoids in cancer-related pain management and palliative care. Controlled veterinary studies in this area are anticipated.

ABSC Organics remains committed to supporting and participating in clinical research. Our partnership with CSU and the AKC Canine Health Foundation is ongoing, and we believe that the future of pet CBD will be defined by the brands that invest in evidence over marketing.

Understanding Lab Testing vs. Clinical Trials: COA Does Not Equal Clinical Efficacy

This is one of the most misunderstood distinctions in the pet CBD industry, and it is worth addressing directly because the confusion has real consequences for pet owners.

What a Certificate of Analysis (COA) Tells You

A Certificate of Analysis is a document from a third-party laboratory that tests a CBD product for:

  • Cannabinoid potency: How much CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids are in the product. Does the label match the contents?
  • Contaminants: Testing for pesticides, heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium), residual solvents, and microbial contamination.
  • Terpene profile: Identification and quantification of terpenes present in full-spectrum products.

A COA is essential. It tells you the product is safe to consume and contains what the label says. ABSC publishes COAs for every batch, and you should never purchase a CBD product from any company that does not make its COAs readily available.

What a COA Cannot Tell You

A COA cannot tell you whether the product works. It verifies product quality and safety, not therapeutic efficacy. Consider this analogy: a nutrition label on a box of cereal tells you the calorie count, macronutrient breakdown, and vitamin content. It does not tell you whether eating that cereal will lower your cholesterol, improve your energy levels, or help you lose weight. Those are clinical questions that require clinical studies to answer.

Similarly, a COA confirming that a CBD oil contains 600 mg of CBD, zero pesticides, and a rich terpene profile does not mean that product will reduce your dog’s seizures, alleviate arthritis pain, or calm anxiety. Only controlled clinical trials can provide that evidence.

The Two-Part Standard

A truly evidence-based pet CBD product meets both standards:

  1. Lab testing (COA): Confirms what is in the product and that it is free of contaminants. This is the quality assurance standard.
  2. Clinical trials: Demonstrates that the product produces measurable therapeutic effects under controlled conditions. This is the efficacy standard.

Most pet CBD brands meet only the first standard (and some do not even meet that). ABSC meets both. Our COAs verify product quality and purity. Our three CSU clinical trials verify that the product has demonstrated real, measurable benefits in dogs with epilepsy and osteoarthritis, and that it has a defined pharmacokinetic and safety profile.

View ABSC’s current batch COAs on our Certificate of Analysis page.

Frequently Asked Questions About ABSC Clinical Research

How many clinical trials has ABSC CBD oil been used in?

ABSC Organics CBD oil has been used in three peer-reviewed clinical trials conducted at Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The studies covered three areas: epilepsy/seizure management (published in JAVMA, 2019), osteoarthritis/pain (published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science), and pharmacokinetics/safety assessment (published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018). All three studies were led by Dr. Stephanie McGrath, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology).

What percentage of dogs showed reduced seizures with CBD in the CSU trial?

In the CSU epilepsy trial, 89% of dogs receiving CBD oil showed a reduction in seizure frequency compared to the placebo group. The median reduction was 33%. The study enrolled dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy — dogs that were already on anticonvulsant medication but continued to experience seizures. CBD was administered as an adjunct to their existing treatment at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg twice daily for 12 weeks.

Is ABSC CBD oil safe for long-term use in dogs?

The CSU pharmacokinetic and safety study found that CBD oil was well-tolerated with no serious adverse effects at standard dosing levels. The primary finding was mild, reversible elevation of the liver enzyme alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which was not associated with clinical signs of liver disease. Based on this finding, veterinarians recommend periodic blood work to monitor liver enzyme values — typically at baseline, 30 days, 90 days, and every 6 months thereafter. Over 22,000 pet parents have used ABSC products, and the safety profile observed in the clinical data has been consistent with real-world experience.

What is the recommended CBD dosage for dogs based on clinical research?

The CSU clinical trials used a dosing protocol of 2.5 mg/kg administered twice daily (BID) — approximately every 12 hours. ABSC Organics provides weight-based dosing guidelines informed by this research, with four product strengths designed for different weight ranges: 300 mg (dogs under 25 lbs), 600 mg (25-50 lbs), 1200 mg (50-100 lbs), and 2400 mg (over 100 lbs). The general principle is to start at the lowest recommended dose and increase gradually over 1-2 weeks while monitoring your dog’s response.

What is the difference between a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and a clinical trial?

A COA confirms what is in the bottle — cannabinoid concentrations, contaminant testing, and potency verification. It is a quality assurance document. A clinical trial tests whether the product actually works for a specific condition in living animals under controlled, scientific conditions. COAs verify product quality; clinical trials verify therapeutic efficacy. Both are important, but only clinical trials can substantiate claims that a product reduces seizures, relieves pain, or produces other health benefits. ABSC meets both standards: every batch is third-party tested with publicly available COAs, and the product has been validated through three peer-reviewed clinical trials.

Were the CSU CBD studies double-blind and placebo-controlled?

Yes. The epilepsy trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial — the gold standard in medical research. This means dogs were randomly assigned to treatment or control groups, and neither the pet owners nor the veterinarians knew which dogs received CBD and which received placebo until after the data was collected and analyzed. This design eliminates observer bias, placebo-by-proxy effects, and selection bias, providing the most reliable type of clinical evidence available.

Can CBD replace my dog’s current seizure medication?

No. The CSU epilepsy trial specifically studied CBD as an adjunct therapy, meaning it was given alongside existing antiepileptic medications, not as a replacement. The dogs in the study continued their prescribed anticonvulsant regimens (phenobarbital, potassium bromide, levetiracetam, or zonisamide) throughout the trial. Never discontinue or reduce your dog’s prescribed medications without direct guidance from your veterinarian. CBD showed promise as a complementary treatment that may help further reduce seizure frequency when conventional medications alone are insufficient.

Why does ABSC use full-spectrum CBD oil instead of CBD isolate?

The CSU pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that CBD-infused oil had the highest systemic absorption and most favorable pharmacokinetic profile compared to other delivery formats. ABSC’s full-spectrum extract is derived from single-source Colorado hemp and contains over 200 naturally occurring terpenes and 100+ other plant compounds. Researchers and clinicians generally support the “entourage effect” hypothesis, which suggests that these compounds work synergistically for enhanced therapeutic benefit compared to isolated CBD alone. The full-spectrum oil used in the clinical trials is the same formulation available to consumers.

Clinically Tested CBD Oil: Product Recommendations

Every ABSC product listed below uses the same full-spectrum CBD oil formulation tested in the three CSU clinical trials. Products are USDA Organic certified, single-source Colorado hemp, and third-party tested with batch-specific Certificates of Analysis available for review.

300 mg CBD Oil

Dogs under 25 lbs

$49.99

Subscribe & Save 15%

View Product

600 mg CBD Oil

Dogs 25-50 lbs

$59.99

Subscribe & Save 15%

View Product

1200 mg CBD Oil

Dogs 50-100 lbs

$119.99

Subscribe & Save 15%

View Product

2400 mg CBD Oil

Dogs over 100 lbs

$199.99

Subscribe & Save 15%

View Product

Save 15% with a subscription: Most dogs with chronic conditions like epilepsy or osteoarthritis benefit from consistent, long-term CBD use. Our Subscribe & Save program delivers your dog’s CBD on a schedule you choose, with a 15% discount on every order. Modify, pause, or cancel anytime.

Choosing the Right Strength

Our products are formulated so that each dropper delivers an appropriate dose for the corresponding weight range, based on the clinical dosing protocol of approximately 2.5 mg/kg twice daily. This means you do not need to calculate doses manually — simply use the dropper guidelines provided with each product, and consult our detailed dosage guide for specific recommendations.

If your dog is new to CBD, follow the “start low and go slow” principle: begin with the lowest recommended dose for your dog’s weight range and increase gradually over 1-2 weeks while observing your dog’s response. For dogs with seizures or other conditions being managed with prescription medications, consult your veterinarian before starting CBD.

View Lab Results

Every batch of ABSC CBD oil undergoes third-party laboratory testing. View current and archived Certificates of Analysis to verify the cannabinoid potency, terpene profile, and contaminant testing results for your specific batch.

The Bottom Line

In an industry built largely on claims and testimonials, ABSC Organics has invested in the only thing that truly matters: evidence. Three peer-reviewed clinical trials. Published in respected veterinary journals. Conducted at one of the top veterinary research institutions in the country. Led by a board-certified veterinary neurologist.

The data shows that ABSC CBD oil can reduce seizure frequency in dogs with intractable epilepsy, improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis, and do so with a well-characterized safety profile. This is not marketing language — it is what the published science says.

If you have questions about whether CBD is right for your dog’s specific situation, we encourage you to discuss it with your veterinarian and to share the published research referenced on this page. You can also explore our FAQ for additional information, or contact our team directly.

Your dog deserves a product backed by more than a label. They deserve one backed by science.

References

  1. McGrath S, Bartner LR, Rao S, Packer RA, Gustafson DL. Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2019;254(11):1301-1308. PubMed: 31067185
  2. McGrath S, Bartner LR, Rao S, Packer RA, Gustafson DL. A Report of Adverse Effects Associated With the Administration of Cannabidiol in Healthy Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018. PubMed
  3. Gamble LJ, Boesch JM, Frye CW, et al. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018;5:165. doi:10.3389/fvets.2018.00165. PubMed
  4. American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. Canine Health Research. akcchf.org