CBD vs Apoquel for Dogs: Differences, Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

CBD is becoming a go-to natural alternative to Apoquel for dogs with allergies and inflammation, with fewer side effects and a gentler approach.
Apoquel works fast to stop itching, but long-term use can mess with your dog’s immune system.
CBD helps calm inflammation and discomfort by tapping into your dog’s endocannabinoid system; no immune suppression needed.
Apoquel is a prescription drug with precise dosing, while CBD products vary widely, so choosing a high-quality, vet-recommended brand is important.
Bailey’s CBD delivers full-spectrum oils and soft chews made just for pets, supporting skin, joints, calm behavior, and overall health naturally.

CBD vs Apoquel: What Dog Owners Need to Know Right Now

If your dog won’t stop scratching, you're probably looking for fast relief and wondering if you should go with something like Apoquel or try a natural route like CBD. Both can help, but they work in totally different ways and have different long-term considerations. As skin issues and allergies become more common, knowing the pros and cons of each treatment can help you make a better, safer choice for your pup.

What Are Apoquel and CBD?

Apoquel is a fast-acting prescription med that targets enzymes behind allergic itching and inflammation. It works well, but it also suppresses part of your dog’s immune system. CBD, on the other hand, is a plant-based option that supports the body’s natural balance by working with the endocannabinoid system. It doesn’t shut down immune responses, it just helps calm them.

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Key Differences Between CBD and Apoquel

Feature	Apoquel	CBD
Mechanism	Suppresses immune system enzymes to reduce symptoms quickly	Supports immune system balance and reduces inflammation naturally
Symptom Approach	Masks symptoms like itching and redness without addressing root causes	Works on underlying body systems to help manage triggers causing symptoms
Speed of Action	Fast-acting, often within hours	May take longer to show effects, supporting gradual improvement
Side Effects	Potentially severe: infections, gastrointestinal issues, urinary tract infections, and possible increased risk of cancer	Generally non-toxic with fewer and milder side effects reported
Immune Impact	Suppresses immune function, which may weaken natural defenses	Supports and balances immune function without suppression

Benefits of Apoquel and CBD for Dogs

Apoquel Benefits:

Fast relief from itching, redness, and scratching
Often prescribed by vets for quick symptom control

CBD Benefits:

Helps naturally reduce itching and inflammation

CBD may help relieve common skin discomforts in dogs, such as itching and inflammation caused by allergies or irritants.

Promotes overall balance and may ease anxiety
Non-toxic with fewer serious side effects
Can pair well with natural ingredients like turmeric for added support

Common Side Effects

Apoquel Side Effects:

Higher risk of infections like ear and urinary tract issues
Possible vomiting or diarrhea
Long-term use may suppress the immune system and raise cancer concerns
Lethargy and appetite changes may also occur

CBD Side Effects:

Usually mild, like drowsiness or slight digestive upset
No known serious risks when using quality, pet-specific products

Dosage Guidelines

Apoquel Dosage: Apoquel isn’t a one-size-fits-all med; it’s prescribed based on your dog’s weight and symptoms. Most pups start with it twice a day, then taper down to once daily as things improve. Because it can have some serious side effects, your vet will need to keep a close eye on things.

CBD Dosage: CBD is a bit more flexible. You’ll want to start with a low dose based on your dog’s size and gradually increase it while watching how they respond. It’s usually given by mouth or added to food. Just make sure you’re using a high-quality product made specifically for pets to keep things safe and effective.

Considerations for Use

Apoquel is great for fast relief, but can raise concerns about immune suppression and long-term risks.
CBD takes a more natural route, aiming to support overall balance without shutting down the immune system.
Some pet parents combine CBD with Apoquel to help ease side effects, but only under a vet’s guidance.
Diet matters too! Switching to fresh or raw foods may help tackle itchy skin from the inside out.

Giving your dog the best with Bailey’s CBD

Helping your dog feel their best shouldn’t be complicated. At Bailey’s, we make it simple with natural CBD products that support calm, comfort, and overall health, without any junk.

Bailey’s CBD delivers clean, natural support to help your dog stay calm, balanced, and healthy without the unnecessary additives.

We use one of the cleanest extraction methods out there: subcritical CO₂ extraction. It’s gentle, chemical-free, and done by the only lab in the country that meets our standards. That means your pet gets the full benefit of cannabinoids and terpenes, preserved just as nature intended.

Our CBD is single-sourced from a trusted farm in Boulder, Colorado, so every batch is consistent and traceable. We also operate under a Department of Health license, something many CBD brands can’t say. Each product is tested by third-party labs for purity, potency, and safety.

Bailey’s CBD Oil for Dogs is available in strengths ranging from 150 mg to 600 mg and is made with just two ingredients: full-spectrum hemp and fractionated coconut oil. It’s simple to dose and supports calm behavior, healthy skin, and joint comfort. Our Omega Hemp CBD Soft Chews offer a flavorful, vegan-friendly way to support skin health, mobility, and overall balance, so it’s great for dogs of all sizes.

No matter if it’s our easy-to-use CBD oil or tasty soft chews packed with calming and skin-loving ingredients, everything’s designed with your pup in mind. We even have options for cats and horses, plus soothing balms for extra support.

With Bailey’s, you’re not just getting CBD; you’re getting peace of mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give my dog CBD and Apoquel at the same time?

Yes, just make sure your vet is in the loop. Some dogs benefit from using both: Apoquel handles the intense itching, while CBD works behind the scenes to calm inflammation. Over time, this combo might even let you lower the Apoquel dose. Since both are processed by the liver, your vet may want to keep an eye on liver enzymes if you're using them long-term.

Are there specific dog breeds that respond better to one treatment over the other?

Not officially, but some patterns pop up. Dogs prone to skin allergies, like Bulldogs and Retrievers, often do well on Apoquel. Breeds with broader inflammation, like Labs or Shepherds, might benefit more from CBD. It really depends on your dog’s unique needs.

What quality indicators should I look for when buying CBD for my dog?

Go for brands that offer third-party lab results and use organic hemp. Bonus points for pet-specific formulas and gentle extraction methods like CO₂. Bailey’s CBD nails all of these and more.

Can either treatment cure my dog's allergies permanently?

Nope, unfortunately, there’s no magic cure. But both CBD and Apoquel can manage symptoms really well. Pair them with diet tweaks and trigger avoidance for the best long-term results.

Why should I choose Bailey’s CBD for my dog?

Bailey’s CBD has been helping pet parents for nearly a decade with vet-formulated, high-quality products that are thoroughly tested and thoughtfully made. It’s safe, effective, and trusted by dog lovers who want the very best for their pups.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

These products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.