One of the most common questions horse owners ask is how much CBD to give a horse. Because horses are so much bigger than dogs, the right amount is different — but the rule is the same: start low and go slow. Here's a simple, research-referenced guide.
The Short Answer
Begin at the low end of the range, give once daily, and adjust over a week or two based on how your horse responds. Our clinical study at Tarleton State University used a reference range of 0.3 to 0.6 mg of CBD per kg of body weight, and found the higher serving more effective for reducing transport stress.
CBD Dosage for Horses by Weight
Using the 0.3–0.6 mg/kg reference, here are rough starting points. These are starting guidelines — always confirm with your veterinarian, especially if your horse is on medication.
| Horse weight | Starting CBD (low → higher) |
|---|---|
| ~500 lb (pony / young) | ~70–135 mg |
| ~1,000 lb (average) | ~135–270 mg |
| ~1,500 lb (draft / large) | ~200–410 mg |
HempMy Pet's 5000mg CBD olive oil delivers roughly 42 mg of CBD per ml (about 208 mg per teaspoon), so an average 1,000 lb horse starts around two-thirds to one and a quarter teaspoons. The product page lists exact serving guidance.
How to Give CBD to a Horse
The easiest way is to top-dress the oil directly onto your horse's feed or grain. Olive oil is palatable, so most horses take it without fuss. Daily, consistent use works better than an occasional large dose — it helps the endocannabinoid system find its balance.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Most owners notice a calming effect within about 30 to 60 minutes, useful before trailering or a farrier visit. In our study, blood levels peaked around 4 hours and were non-detectable by 24 hours. For joint and everyday wellness, give it daily and allow one to two weeks.
Is It Safe? A Note on Competition
Hemp-derived CBD under 0.3% THC is non-intoxicating and federally legal, and full-spectrum hemp is generally well tolerated — introduce it gradually. Important: CBD and cannabinoids are prohibited under FEI and USEF rules, so don't use inside your organization's withdrawal window, and check current regulations before showing.
Shop CBD for Horses
Ready to start? HempMy Pet's CBD for horses is organic, Colorado-grown, full-spectrum, and third-party tested — the high-potency 5000mg CBD olive oil is sized for a horse. New to it? Read the benefits of CBD for horses first.